Nestled along the stunning coastline of southern Portugal, The Algarve is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking sun-kissed beaches, charming towns, and a rich cultural experience. But, what if you’re planning a family vacation with little ones in tow? No problem. The Algarve also caters wonderfully to families. We spent nearly a month there with our own family and absolutely loved our travel experience.
Below, we’ll explore luxurious yet approachable family-friendly hotels, share activities suitable for babies and toddlers, highlight must-visit towns, and provide recommendations for delicious restaurants.
Where to Stay: Luxurious Family-Friendly Hotels
There’s no shortage of family-friendly hotels in The Algarve. Below are a few properties that all have different accommodations for children, most of them with kids clubs.
Pine Cliffs Resort – Albufeira: Located on the picturesque cliffs of Albufeira, the Pine Cliffs Resort offers a luxurious family-friendly experience. The resort boasts spacious apartments and villas, multiple swimming pools, and a dedicated kids’ club. Parents can relax at the spa or on the golf course while the little ones enjoy supervised activities.
Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort – Sagres: Situated on the unspoiled western Algarve coastline, Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort is designed with families in mind. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from hotel rooms to villas, all within walking distance of the beach. With a variety of kids’ clubs, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants, it’s a haven for parents and children alike. We stayed here and really loved the property. One thing to note: it’s quite windy in Sagres, so we took day trips to surrounding towns instead of going to the beach here.
Anantara Vilamoura – Vilamoura: The Anantara stands out as a sophisticated resort with a superyacht-filled marina and an adjacent casino. It’s a golfer’s paradise with access to five courses within a mile, including the Arnold Palmer-designed Victoria course. Although it’s elegant, it remains very family-friendly; it has kids’ and teens’ clubs, a dedicated family dining area, and a children’s pool. A complimentary shuttle ensures a swift 10-minute drive to the marina and beach.
Octant Vila Monte – Moncarapacho: Nestled amid acres of olive and orange groves, the property is just a 15-minute drive from Fuseta’s beaches in the eastern Algarve. This converted finca offers a serene escape and caters to families. Half of the property features whitewashed, boho-chic suites, and a villa with a private pool and butler service. Children can roam freely through gardens, enjoy their dedicated pool, and participate in activities at the kids’ club. Your family will bond over stargazing, movie nights, farm visits, pottery classes, and boat trips. The on-site restaurants, sourcing from Vila Monte’s gardens and the nearby ocean, specialize in Portuguese cuisine.
Conrad Algarve – Quinta do Lago: This opulent hotel, designed after an 18th-century Portuguese palace, welcomes guests of all ages. The property features suites accommodating families of four, three swimming pools, a cutting-edge spa, and exceptional dining options. It even is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Gusto by Heinz Beck. For the little ones, the hotel offers a dedicated pool, sports courts, and a kids’ club. Conrad Algarve presents a delightful array of family experiences, ranging from fishing trips to bike rides in the nature reserve, along with water sports on the nearby lake.
Of course, when we’re planning your trip to The Algarve, Unfolded Travels will secure you VIP perks and amenities at your property whenever possible! This typically includes being top of the list for a room upgrade, resort credits, and free breakfast for 2 daily. Fill out our trip inquiry form to get started on your own trip!
Kid-Friendly Activities:
There are many different activities for children in The Algarve, but a few of our favorites include:
Algarve Railway – Lagos to Faro: For a scenic adventure, take the train journey from Lagos to Faro. The kids will be fascinated by the changing landscapes, and it’s a convenient way to explore different towns along the way. Pack a picnic and enjoy the ride with your little ones.
Praia da Rocha – Portimão: This golden-sand beach in Portimão is perfect for a family day out. The calm waters make it safe for even the youngest family members. For instance, they can build sandcastles, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy a beachside picnic while soaking in the sun.
Other Must-Visit Towns:
The Algarve is a large region comprised of many different towns. A few other areas you want to visit are:
Lagos: This historic town is known for its cobbled streets, charming squares, and beautiful beaches. Explore the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and take a family-friendly boat tour to discover hidden caves and grottoes.
Tavira: Tavira offers a more relaxed atmosphere with its historic architecture and tranquil riverside setting. Visit the Tavira Island beach which is accessible by a short boat ride, to enjoy a day in the sun.
A Few Restaurants To Try:
O Camilo – Lagos: Overlooking the stunning Camilo Beach, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and Portuguese cuisine. Because of the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views, it’s an excellent choice for families.
No Solo Água – Portimão: Situated on the Praia da Rocha beachfront, No Solo Água combines delicious cuisine with a laid-back vibe. As a result, the kids’ menu and beachside location are a hit with families.
KOKO – Quinta do Lago: Enjoy tasty seafood, spiced meats, and wood-fired oven pizzas before a family mini-golf challenge nearby. Your kids can play in the designated area while you soak in the warm weather and relax with a glass of wine.
The Shack – Quinta do Lago: The Shack offers all the family essentials – water activities, live music, delicious food, and a lakeside beach. Styled like a charming fisherman’s shack they offer savory tacos, salads, burgers, and seafood. The best part? You can enjoy the beautiful view of Quinta do Lago’s lake. Top it off with a refreshing smoothie or milkshake, and settle in for the night’s musical performance.
The Algarve is an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation. Whether you’re exploring historic towns, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, The Algarve promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
