Our last visit to Praia da Rocha was 1986! We were excited to revisit. The beach was exactly as remembered - absolutely stunning. Beautiful Sandy beach. However, we knew it would be end of season, but we missed the buzz of the resort. Our mistake coming too late in season but also disappointed in shops. There really is just a few souvenir type shops. However we had the loveliest time walking along the promenade at the beach, stopping for coffees / cold drinks. We enjoyed visiting Portimao where the shops are better.

Praia da Rocha is an excellent area to relax and enjoy the beauty of The Algarve. There are many opportunities to take tours to visit the different locales that includes mountains, the ocean, orange orchards, exploration sites, etc. Portimao is close by to visit The Sardine Museum, walk the amazing Promenade along the river, eat Fresh fish in the Old Sardine restaurants, etc We stayed at marvellous Jupiter Hotel and we cannot say enough about the service and excellent food.

With a beach so big that can literally never be filled, this resort is pretty much perfect. The beach is beautiful with loads of space and very clean. Lots of cafes and toilets so you didn't need to keep climbing back up the steps. No shortage of sunbeds here, and just 10 euros for 2 beds and parasol There is a small main street with the usual Bars and numerous places to eat covering all tastes and pockets. There is also some good live entertainment on offer via local bans which we enjoyed. One of the main highlights has to be the amazing rocky coastline which is a must. The resport also acts as a central location for other small towns and places of interest that are with reach. You can walk along to the fort, down to the marina, along to the lighthouse and back along the well constructed beach boardwalk . In the other direction you could walk at least as far as the next resort along the cliff top and see the amazing rocks of Alvor. Buses were frequent to the marina and to Portimao, where you can take a boat trip or just enjoy the old town. Taxis are also well regulated and relatively cheap to use and line up next to the Jupiter Hotel in mid resort.

Went in may was very quiet and peaceful, if you want to get away from the party environment and drunken Brits it's a good location. Few bars on the front, also has a lovely beach with cafes and restaurants on the front that are at a decent price. Can be a bit to quiet especially if you are more of a socialist more catered for people who want a quiet relaxing holiday, best to stay in an apartment as it's more homely and there are some decent apartments there. If you prefer a more lively atmosphere albufeira is more you you that is the only downfall it's more catered for older people and has many residents living there so it's a very homely environment. Would recommend it's worth a visit just over two hours from the airport.

Make sure you go up on a clear day without any wind. The drive up itself is easy but note that the roads at times can be very narrow and tour buses are travelling the same road. A cafe and your typical expensive souvenir shop can be found at the top. Wear comfortable shoes if you wish to walk some of the paths but the views make it definitely a worthwhile visit.

This was my first trip to Portugal and I wasn't disappointed. The Hotel, Jupiter Algarve, was excellent and slap bang opposite the entrance to the beach. Bars, shops etc were on our doorstep which made everything so easy. The weather was mixed but nothing that I didn't expect. It may have been my first time but it definitely won't be my last. The saving has already begun.

Alright. Being one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve, it should be seen. can be regarded as a city beach because of the nearby hotels and structures. After 12 a.m., it becomes really crowded, but since it's so large, you never have to deal with people sitting right next to you.