Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal

Carvoeiro, Algarve Portugal is a picturesque and traditional Portuguese resort town, situated along a beautiful coastline of golden beaches and dramatic natural scenery. Carvoeiro is a great destination for visitors who are wanting a calm and relaxed vacation, in a quaint and charming town. The majority of tourists visit Carvoeiro solely for a relaxed beach holiday, but there is a surprising amount to see and do within the surrounding region. This includes historic towns to discover, challenging hiking trails, exciting boat tours or the thrill of the region’s theme and water parks.

Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal is very popular for family vacations with a large choice of accommodations and with plenty to do in a compact area around the town center.  Water sports are available at the beach for those who playing in the water and a couple of diving schools if you prefer to be under the water. The local fishermen also make use of their boats during the day to offer visitors the chance to take boat trips around the coastline and to see the caves.

The cliff tops around Carvoeiro offer plenty of walking trails and with great views. You can also check out the ‘algares’ which are holes in the cliff where the sea has eaten it away from underneath. On the cliff above Carvoeiro are the remains of the walls of the Fort of Senhora da Conceição dating from the 17th century, inside which is the hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação.  You can also take a trip to Silves with it’s Moorish castle and riverside walks. A walk around the castle walls allows you to have a bird’s eye view of the town and surrounding countryside and there are lots of pavement cafés to stop for a cool drink afterwards.

Carvoeiro Weather (When to Visit)

Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal has long hot summers, pleasant springs and autumns, and unpredictable winters that have an equal number of grey days as sunny days. The height of the summer season is during the months of July and August. June and September are as equally busy with vacationers who do not have children.  If  you are visiting during the peak season, it is essential to pre-book accommodation and flights as they will sell out.  The autumn and spring months provide an excellent time to discover Carvoeiro Algarve.  The weather is bright and sunny, but without the summer time crowds. During the winter months, Carvoeiro closes down and will feel very quiet, but a small selection of restaurants and bars will remain open. During the winter it is better to visit the larger resort towns, which have a permanent population, such as Albufeira or Lagos.

Best Carvoeiro Beaches

Praia da Marinha, Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal, Portugal's best beaches, top beaches in the world, Things to do in Carvoeiro, best restaurants in Carvoeiro, best bars in Carvoeiro, Carvoeiro attractions, Carvoeiro beaches, top beaches in the worldPraia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is an iconic beach near Lagoa, rated as one of the top ten beaches in the world.  Praia da Marinha is known as one of the most beautiful beaches of the world.  With it’s amazing cliff side, it is the favorite beach in the Algarve. Praia da Marinha is one of the top ten beaches in the world.  Praia da Marina is calm and the water is really clear, almost transparent. This makes it a popular destination for snorkeling, as it is possible to see many different kinds of marine species and fish underwater.

Praia do Carvalho, Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal, Portugal's best beaches, top beaches in the world, Things to do in Carvoeiro, best restaurants in Carvoeiro, best bars in Carvoeiro, Carvoeiro attractions, Carvoeiro beaches, top beaches in the worldPraia do Carvalho

Praia do Carvalho is a relatively quiet beach. There are no hotels or resorts directly on the beach. This makes this beach perfect for those who want to get away from the crowded beaches that you can find in other parts of the Algarve. The water is clean and the sea is calm.  The area near Lagoa is famous for its impressive rock formations. Near Praia do Carvalho you will find a rock formation known as the window, which looks out over the beach. It is the result of many years of erosion.

Praia de Vale Centeanes, Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal, Portugal's best beaches, top beaches in the world, Things to do in Carvoeiro, best restaurants in Carvoeiro, best bars in Carvoeiro, Carvoeiro attractions, Carvoeiro beaches, top beaches in the worldPraia de Vale Centeanes

Praia de Vale Centeanes is a Blue Flag beach so there are plenty of facilities for all the family including a seasonal lifeguard service. There is a cafe near the beach entrance along with toilets plus a hut selling ices and cold drinks during the summer.  With the high cliffs offering shelter from the wind, Vale de Centeanes beach is a haven for sun-worshippers. The cliffs themselves are a point of interest and worth a closer look where they have been eroded into unusual shapes. The snorkeling is also good around here.

Praia de Carvoeiro, Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal, Portugal's best beaches, top beaches in the world, Things to do in Carvoeiro, best restaurants in Carvoeiro, best bars in Carvoeiro, Carvoeiro attractions, Carvoeiro beaches, top beaches in the worldPraia de Carvoeiro

The setting is picturesque, the beach is suitable for all and there is a wide selection of cafes and restaurants close by. The beach is sheltered from the sea by two rocky headlands, and this has formed a natural triangular beach. The rear of the Praia de Carvoeiro is lined by traditional fishing houses, which have been since been converted into tourist restaurants and bars.

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Praia do Paraíso beach, Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal, Portugal's best beaches, top beaches in the world, Things to do in Carvoeiro, best restaurants in Carvoeiro, best bars in Carvoeiro, Carvoeiro attractions, Carvoeiro beaches, top beaches in the worldPraia do Paraíso Beach

Paraiso beach is situated at the base of towering cliffs and the small patch of sand is almost entirely covered by the high tide – not quite the paradise (Paraiso) the name implies. The main interesting feature are the rock pools and submerged rock, which are great for snorkelling and harbour lots of small marine life.

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Best Carvoeiro Tours & Activities

São Miguel West Full Day Tour with Setes Cidades Including Lunch

Discover the west side of São Miguel island with ease on a full-day tour from Ponta Delgada. A great way for first-time visitors to orient themselves, this tour covers Lake Fogo, Caldeira Velha, Mosteiros, and Sete Cidades, home to the vivid Lago Azul and Lago Verde. Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off on this small-group tour, limited to eight people.  Learn more about the Sao Miguel West Full Day Tour.

Algarve In 2 Days Private – GL Tours Lisbon

Trip from Lisbon through Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park Including Short stop.  Includes: Sagres, Harbour, Cape St. Vincent, Lagos, Ponta Da Piedade, Town Walls, Old Town, Albufeira Carvoeiro, Algar Seco Rock formations, Marinha Beach, and trip to Lisbon.  Learn more about Algarve in 2 Day Private Tour.

Algarve from Lisbon Private Tour – Lagos, Benagil and Marinha beach

Escape the busy city of Lisbon and enjoy a relaxing trip to the picturesque southern region of Portugal—the Algarve. Going on a guided tour saves time doing research, and means all transport is included. Travel with ease in an air-conditioned private vehicle, and see Albufeira, Ponta da Piedade, Lagos, and Benagil beach.  Learn more about the Algarve Tour from Lisbon.

VIP Dolphins Luxury Whale Watching

They are the only Whale Watching company in Madeira providing a luxury experience for the dolphins and whales. We will welcome you with champagne, local cocktails, local juices, and local snacks, such as “Bolo do Caco” with garlic butter, cherry tomato and local fresh cheese, local banana and passion puff pastry fruit, ice cream and traditional biscuits. will be served during the trip. Our boat is new and offer showers and bathrooms.  Learn more about the VIP Dolphins Luxury Whale Watching Tour.

Azores Swim with Dolphins Experience

Join a fantastic and unique Wildlife Experience! Swim with wild Dolphins in the open ocean, and snorkel the atlantic underwater scenario of the Azores Islands! The best connection to Nature in a glimpse to the season’s coastal marine fauna and flora in the heart of the Atlantic.  Learn more about the Azores Swim with Dolphins Experience.

Best Carvoeiro Restaurants

L´Orange  $11 – 30

A cosy restaurant with a relaxing ambience, L’Orange specialises in international and French-inspired cuisine created by Belgian chef patron Jan Mortier, complemented by the delicious homemade desserts made by wife Karin. The interior is pleasantly decorated, whilst outside, a pretty terrace is perfect for al fresco dining. L’Orange is located just outside Carvoeiro near the Carvoeiro Hotel.  Telephone:  351 282 357 297  Web:   L´Orange.

Primavera  $11 – 30

An attractive trattoria-style restaurant at the top of Estrada do Farol, Primavera is under the ownership of Domingos, formerly of Villa Medici. Serving Italian/Mediterranean cuisine, the restaurant has a lovely ambiance and features a stylish interior décor, as well as a large outdoor area that’s ideal for the summer months.  Telephone:  351 282 358 017  Web:  Primavera.

The Wolf  $11 – 30

Delicious, quality steaks, rack of lamb and daily fish and seafood specials are served in this upscale bar and grill with smart interiors and outdoor dining on the ground floor and the new addition of the elegant upstairs lounge on the terrace. Located on Estrada do Farol, the restaurant’s star attraction is the US Black Angus beef, including an excellent T-bone cooked on the charcoal grill/oven. Lunch and dinner served indoors or on the bottom terrace and burgers on the upstairs terrace. Don’t miss the very popular Sunday Brunch at €15 with free flowing mimosas.  Telephone:  351 962 708 596  Web:   The Wolf.

Pimenta Preta  $31 – 60

Creative cooking, excellent service, a charming ambiance and value for money make Pimenta Preta one of the most appealing fine dining experiences in the Carvoeiro area. New dishes from around the world, created by the chef ensure customers are always in for a surprise, whilst the quality of the food is matched by an equally impressive wine list compiled by the owner Nuno Diogo. Specializing in European classics and Asian cuisine.  Telephone:  351 282 350 281  Web:  Pimenta Preta.

Casa Algarvia  $11 – 30

One of Carvoeiro’s best-known restaurants is run by Frank and Cristina who have completely refurbished Casa Algarvia, with terracotta walls, a modern bar area and a brand new kitchen breathing new life into the establishment. The menu features Portuguese favorites, from fresh fish to enticing meat options, as well as specialties such as fish cataplana and pork cataplana with clams.  Telephone:  351 968 663 568  Web:   Casa Algarvia.

Best Carvoeiro Bars

Boneca Bar

Located in one of the best locations in Carvoeiro, Boneca Bar is the perfect place to sit back and while away the time. Set within the cliffs of Algar Seco, this restaurant and bar serves fresh fish and a selection of meat, complemented by a carefully put together wine list. A family-run establishment, there is also a range of cocktails and sangria if you simply want a drink whilst you enjoy the surroundings.  Telephone:  351 282 358 391  Web:   Boneca Bar.

Bar Havana

This Cuban inspired cocktail Bar in pretty Carvoeiro, is a great place to meet friends in the evening.  With well priced cocktails, good bar snacks (chili beef burritos with tortillas) and inviting window seats to install yourself in against a backdrop of  house music.  Telephone:  351 916 407 988  Web:  Bar Havana.

Caniço

If you want to dance on the beach with the sand between your toes, this is the place for you. Caniço is a bar with a difference, built between the cliffs by a lovely cove and reached by an elevator from the cliff tops. During the regular live music and party nights, a DJ sets up on the sand (tide permitting) and you can dance till (almost) dawn.  Telephone:  351 282 458 503  Web:   Canico.

No Solo Agua

This highly popular Beach Bar now runs right along the Sea’s edge with the Marina.  It works as a whole day destination with a pool, sun loungers and food.  In high season there is an entrance fee (7.50 euros) to get in and a string of musical events are held in the evening.  Telephone:  351 910 789 991  Web:   No Solo Agua.

Stevie Ray’s Blues Jazz Bar

This is an elegant place with great live music on Fridays and Saturdays, ranging across the whole blues/jazz spectrum. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.  Telephone:  351 914 923 883  Web:   Stevie Ray’s Blues Jazz Bar.

Best Hotels

Four Seasons Country Club


Four Seasons Country Club with its unique, friendly, relaxing atmosphere appeals to all ages, and it is not hard to see why. Whether one is looking for a sporty, family, leisure or relaxing holiday our well-appointed villas are set in beautifully landscaped gardens. The magnificent clubhouse and the extensive range of facilities make this the ideal choice for whatever type of holiday you choose. Ninety-six one and two bedroom luxury villas and apartments set within 17 acres of private gardens on the prestigious Quinta do Lago estate.

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa


Their accommodations comes in various shapes and sizes, from chic, sea-inspired rooms and suites with ocean-view terraces to spacious whitewashed villas with private pools. All are located within their oceanfront clifftop grounds amid 54 acres of subtropical gardens. Each type comes with standout features, whether a rooftop terrace or an exquisite Portuguese tile mosaic.  No matter which room category is chosen, guests can expect a sophisticated, refined air of luxury and superb views of the flower-filled parkland or Algarve coastline, as well as modern conveniences.

Vale D’Oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa


Vale d’Oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa is an elegant 5 star resort conveniently located between Carvoeiro and Ferragudo, in the Algarve. This hidden paradise is just a few minutes drive from some of the finest beaches and golf courses in Europe! It is an all year round destination, ideal for family holidays, golf breaks and group travel.   The resort comprises 22 rooms, 2 suites and 80 apartments as well as a large choice of leisure and well being facilities, a Mediterranean restaurant and two bars.

Vale da Lapa


Built in 2010, this air-conditioned hotel is a luxury resort with 85 luxurious suites and villas surrounded by lush gardens, lakes and streams. Guests are welcomed into a lobby with 24-hour reception and check-out service. Facilities include a hotel safe, cloakroom, games room, children’s playground, kids’ club, café and restaurant. WLAN Internet access, room service, a laundry service (for an additional fee), a car park and a bicycle hire service are also available.

Tivoli Carvoeiro


Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the Vale Covo cliffside, this fully-refurbished, family-friendly 5 star hotel in Carvoeiro, Portugal ensures a spectacular holiday whether you’re seeking business or pleasure.  After a comprehensive 5 month remodeling project, our hotel is setting a new standard for luxury among Algarve resorts, with 248 stunningly refurbished bedrooms, suites with balconies and new Family Rooms for larger groups. Take advantage of impeccable facilities including celebrity-chef standard restaurants, Tivoli Spa, and a first-rate fitness area.

28 Comments

  1. Robert M Doyle

    Awesome! Love the cliff formations and the boardwalk. I love hiking and walking–and there is no better way to do it than on a scenic byway. Walking in the neighborhood–what most of us has to do when taking walks–is so drab; but this is spectacular!

    Love the map and the cute “We’re here” showing the location. Nice touch. Once again I want to go there.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Yes, I love to walk and hike as well. What could be more beautiful than a walk/hike in Carvoeiro? Not much in my book, it is absolutely breathtaking! Glad you enjoyed reading about Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal!

      Reply
  2. Emma

    Wow!! It looks like a dream place. I have never been to Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal before but I hear it’s amazing there!!
    And you mentioned some great things to do, the Carvoeiro Caves sounds beautiful, the bars and the restaurants look amazing and so fun!!
    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Amazing and fun place is right 🙂 One of those places to add to your bucket list to check off when you go. Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations and learning about Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal!

      Reply
  3. Tina

    Hi Leahrae!

    This is absolutely beautiful! My family and I have been planning a trip to Portugal for a few years and we were thinking the Azores but I have to say after this post, I might reconsider. Those caves look stunning. And you’ve already got good recommendations on places to eat. We are still in the planning stage but I will bring this one to the table.

    Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You really should change their minds. The whole Algarve area of Portugal is stunningly beautiful and a wonderful beach destination. If you have any questions, or need help with planning (even if you are heading to the Azores), I would be glad to help!

      Reply
  4. Daniella

    Hi Leahrae,

    Wow, wow, and wow! This is just beautiful! We are planning a trip to Portugal next year in the summer, more precisely in July. We didn’t really know where to go exactly and what to do, and this article has provided me all the information I needed, and I indeed thank you for this! Just a question, please. Since my husband and I only have two weeks to enjoy there, I would like to know if it’s enough to visit all these places? What do you think? Maybe we should prolong our vacation? We wouldn’t want to miss all these beautiful spots and attractions:)

    Thank you for this excellent post!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Hi Daniella, and my actual recommendation for visiting here would be two weeks. I think it is plenty of time to see all the highlights that Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal has to offer. I suppose, it also depends on how much time you want to spend at the various beautiful attractions and beaches. If you want to really enjoy and take your time, relax, see it all, then I would possibly consider 3 weeks. Thanks for visiting!

      Reply
  5. Mick Krug

    Wow, what a beach! I like the rock formations that are near the beaches. You feature some nice 5 star hotels and some restaurants that aren’t all that expensive, which is great for the traveler. Plenty to do here in Portugal. I bet a lot of Europeans come to Carvoeiro Algarve, Portugal! It looks like a top place to visit if you love beaches like my wife and I do.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Yes, lots of Europeans visit Portugal for sure. I have most of my family in Germany, and they all visit here during their winter months as Germany does tend to get chilly (well pretty darn cold in my opinion) in the winter. It is an amazing place not to be missed!

      Reply
  6. stefanie taylor

    Yes, the Algarve really is a beautiful place; just look at those caves at the Algar Seco! I love the look of everything there and have always wanted to visit. Lucky for me it’s in Europe, so not too far for me to go 🙂

    Portuguese food is also amazing. I remember visiting a Portuguese restaurant when I lived in London and they had those custard tarts that Portugal is famous for (I forget their official name), but they are to die for. If you visit the Algarve you must try them.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I might have to look up the name for the custard tarts and add that tip to my post 🙂 They do have amazing beaches, but nothing beats a visit to Algar Seco! And you are right, Portuguese food is amazing! Thanks for stopping by Stefanie.

      Reply
  7. Ruya

    What a beautiful dream destination! I have never been to Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal before but it is on my bucket list now! The scenery and the area attractions are really breathtaking, especially the Algar Seco. Since I live in Europe, it is not that far away from where I live. I will definitely visit Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal as soon as I get the chance. Thanks for sharing this post Leahrae!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Glad you enjoyed Ruya! It is definitely a place worth vacationing to. You are right that it is breathtakingly beautiful with so much to offer. Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  8. John

    Wow, such a complete, thorough itinerary for Carvoeiro Algarve, Portugal! Atmospheric writing and images, compelling me to visit. Looks like a magazine and reads like a high quality reference.

    Are you a professional travel agent, but one who flies out to these destinations and wears out many pairs of shoes (and flip flops!) walking the walk and exploring them before you share your findings? It sure seems like it.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I am not a professional travel agent, although in my earlier days I really thought that was what I wanted LOL. I do wear out a good amount of flip flops! I keep lots of them on hand 🙂 Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations.

      Reply
  9. Rob

    Hey Leahrae, Again, Portugal is a place that I’ve never been to and of course it’s beautiful! There isn’t anything there I would not want to see and experience. Is there a best time to visit? And considering how much there is to see and to, what do you recommend for a time period to go for? Is one week enough?

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thanks for stopping by Rob. The best time is going to be July thru October. Of course, September and October will not be as hot, and maybe a tad less crowded. I really think that visiting Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal is a 2 week vacation. There are so many beautiful places here, that you just cannot experience in one week. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

      Reply
  10. Kavitha

    Wow! Great article. You have given complete insight about Carvoeiro Algarve. I feel desperate to visit this place. Good suggestions on the restaurants.Thanks for this wonderful post.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thank you Kavitha for visiting Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal. I am glad you enjoyed the read 🙂

      Reply
  11. Rudolph

    Wow, you have listed the complete itinerary. I am more than eager to come to Algarve and I will definitely contact you for assistance with the hotel bookings. Going through more of your articles. Keep it coming.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I will keep it coming for you Rudolph 🙂 If you have any other destinations in mind, please let me know and I can get the reviews going for you ! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

      Reply
  12. Heku

    Hey Leahrae!

    The only thing I had problems reading here was your name. haha
    Other than that, the article was beautifully written yet very informative and accurate. Algarve is definitely on my next-destinations list and I am really looking forward to visit it in the near future, and your article gave me hope, to be honest, as it does seem that I can afford it, while it is absolutely worth it.
    Thank you for this amazing post!

    My questions is: Which is the preferred time of the year to visit Algarve?

    -Heku

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Hi Heku, really any time during July thru October is going to be wonderful. If you want to miss some of the crowds then stick with September and October. The hottest months will be July and August. I like hot, so it is all good for me. It is definitely worth it! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  13. Joe DiChiara

    WOW! Thank you for this info. I’m always looking for interesting places to go so expect to hear from me. Algar Seco looks fascinating. Love places like this. Going to show it to my wife. Thanks! Joe

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are welcome Joe, and glad you enjoyed reading about Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal. Yes, Algar Seco is a wonderfully beautiful spot in Algarve. It is not to be missed for sure, as well as Praia da Marinha. Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  14. ASEN

    Wow! Just wow. And I have to say – wow!This place looks really amazing.I really wanted to go there and I still want, of course. The thing is that when I was searching for tickets to Portugal they were pretty expensive from Bulgaria where I live.
    But Algarve is a dream destination for me. Plus, I am a fan of Ronaldo! 🙂

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Then you do have to visit soon! If you need any help planning, I know I could find you the best deals. Just shoot me a message, and thanks for visiting Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal!

      Reply

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