Praia da Rocha is a purpose built resort very close to Portimao, with a transfer time from Faro Airport of fifty minutes. The beach is an extensive stretch of sand sheltered by cliffs with large rock formations both in and out of the water. The sweeping bay offers excellent conditions for water sports and boat-rides. Nightlife here is lively with a large number of bars, clubs and even a casino.
Praia da Rocha is a very popular resort with many visitors returning year after year. The hot dry temperatures and the long stretch of beach with its interesting rock formations all conspire to draw people to its gates. Golfers have a number of courses in the area including a championship course.
Praia da Rocha has something for everyone as it is well placed to access the many tourist attractions in the area. Golfers can enjoy a round of their favourite game at any time of year. Sun seekers and water sport enthusiasts will enjoy the fine beaches and the clear waters. Families with young children will find perfect sandcastle conditions but they must be aware that the sea, which is after all the Atlantic Ocean, can be rough with strong currents. The lively nightlife appeals to partygoers.
Praia da Rocha has hot dry summers and pleasant winters making it a year-round holiday destination. The summer is the most popular time with sun seekers and beach lovers flocking to its shores in their thousands.
Praia da Rocha was the first resort to be developed on Portugal's Algarve long before the sixties boom of package holidays. It now consists of numerous multi- storey hotels, shops, bars and restaurants perched on a cliff top running along the edge of the beach. The attractive sandstone cliffs vary in colour and they shelter the long beach below. Access to the beach could cause problems for those with mobility difficulties as there are a number of steps. The beach of fine white sand is ideal for small children but care must be taken when paddling. The ocean can be heavy at times and there are strong currents. The sea is however ideal for all types of water sports.
The Tomás Cabreira Avenue, which follows the coastline to the Santa Catarina de Ribamar Fortress, has many hotels, bars, restaurants, discotheques and a casino. It is the liveliest centre for nightlife in Praia da Rocha.
Golfers have a choice of courses including Alto, in nearby Alvor, the Morgado, north of Portimao and the Penina Championship course.
A free shuttle bus takes you on the fifteen minute ride to Atlantic Park, a water park with many slides and flumes. There are dolphin shows at the nearby Zoo Marine as well as a host of other animal life. Jeep safaris explore the hills and the inland villages where visitors can experience stunning landscapes and traditional country life.
Nightlife in Praia da Rocha is very lively with pubs, music bars, clubs and discos. There are numerous restaurants where those wishing for a more intimate evening can enjoy a meal in a relaxing friendly atmosphere. There is also a casino for those who enjoy a holiday flutter.
Praia da Rocha has a range of shops including many selling gifts and souvenirs. Nearby Portimao has a large number of excellent shops and boutiques as well as a modern shopping mall. The Modelo Mall has many specialist shops as well as restaurants and bars. On the first Monday of every month there is a market in the town with hundreds of stalls which is the place to find gifts, souvenirs and holiday mementoes. Popular items are pottery, leather goods, wickerwork, embroidered linens and jewellery.
There are very many restaurants in Praia da Rocha providing a wide range of cuisine catering for most tastes. Fishermen still land their catch daily so fresh fish and shellfish are high on the menu. Traditional fish restaurants sit along side fast food outlets and there are also many restaurants serving international cuisine. The area is particularly well known for its grilled sardines. It is common in Portugal to be served appetisers known as ‘covers’ while waiting for your food. Please remember that these are not free samples and will appear on the bill. Wines are an excellent accompaniment to dinner, while the almond liqueur or, for chocolate lovers the Alfarroba liqueur, is a great way to relax at the end of the day.
