Portimão tourist information.
Praia da Rocha is the main beach in Portimão but it is also a bustling holiday resort in its own right. Praia da Rocha lies at the entrance to Portimao harbour on the western side of the Algarve coastline and has something to offer everyone, young or old alike.
There are a few places from where you can enjoy a scenic sightseeing, the Three Castles to the West and the Fortress of Santa Catarina de Ribamar to the East. A fabulous panoramic view of the coastline can be seen between João D’Arens point and Ponta do Altar lighthouse.
Praia da Rocha beaches
There are three major beaches that are within walking distance of Praia da Rocha. The largest and closest to the town is the magnificent beach of Praia da Rocha. Heading west is the smaller beach of Praia dos Tres Castelos, which extends for the same distance as Praia da Rocha but is narrower and bound by higher cliffs. Due to the outcrops and high cliffs the Tres Castelos beach sometimes subdivided into three separate beaches but all are identical. The third stretch of beach is the Praia do Vau and encompasses the western side of the bay. Vau beach has the lowest cliffs and is the most shelter and quietest of the beaches.
The long, broad golden beach is backed by limestone cliffs. Loungers and parasols are available for hire as are pedaloes and jet skis. Nestled at the base of the cliffs you can find numerous beach restaurants and bars that serve Portuguese and international food from early morning to late at night. A great wooden boardwalk runs the length of the beach. At any hour of the day you can see locals and tourists alike going for their daily walk, run or cycle.
There are all types of water sports on offer and boat trips to the caves, fishing trips and dolphin watching. At night the bars, nightclubs and restaurants liven up the Avenida Tomás Cabreira that runs along the top of the beach and there is also the Casino for a nightly show, dinner and dancing as well as the gaming rooms.
Praia da Rocha in Winter
A little more relaxed during the winter months Rocha still has plenty to keep you occupied. For those who enjoy a stroll, a walk along promenade and the jetty to the harbour entrance means you ll get to see the locals hoping to catch the fish of the day. The cliff top footpath to the small resort of Praia da Vau is well recommended and with stunning views don’t forget your camera.