2 Best Sights in Portimão, The Algarve

Among the country's most-photographed beaches, Praia da Rocha is also one of the most popular, drawing a constant stream of visitors from around the world. Dramatic cliffs provide the backdrop for a wide, golden expanse of sand. Many water sports are available, and there's a long pier to stroll on. Several bars and restaurants can be found along the beach, all jutting off a wooden boardwalk that stretches down the strand. More can be found further east towards the marina. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: surfing; swimming; walking.

The quaint village of Ferragudo, across the river from Portimão, has one of the region's finest beaches: Praia Grande, a long stretch of sand that offers plenty of space for towels—even in the summer. The 16th-century Castelo de São João (St. John's Castle), built to defend Portimão and now privately owned, sits right on the beach. It's a great spot to watch cruise ships glide by as they dock in Portimão. It's also great for families—being estuarine, the water's pretty still. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; windsurfing.