Vilamoura is a sophisticated resort town that offers visitors a blend of luxury and leisure. The town's focal point is its upscale marina, surrounded by high-end hotels, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife venues.

South of the marina, you'll find pristine beaches perfect for relaxation or water sports and within the sprawling developments are five championship-grade golf courses. While Vilamoura is renowned for its excellent beaches and glorious climate, you'll discover the town has much more to offer. From Roman ruins to high-speed karting, there's an activity to suit every interest.

This guide highlights Vilamoura's most popular attractions and activities for 2024, helping you plan an unforgettable holiday that goes beyond sun and sand. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Vilamoura promises a diverse and rewarding getaway.
Related articles: Day trips from Vilamoura

Below brief overview of the top activities and attractions for a holiday in Vilamoura. Detailed descriptions of these activities can be found later in the guide:
Boat Trip to Benagil Cave: Explore stunning sea caves and cliffs via boat from Vilamoura Marina.
Day Trip to Loulé: Experience traditional Portuguese life and vibrant markets in charming Loulé.
Golf: Play at six renowned golf courses catering to all skill levels.
Cliff-top Trails: Hike scenic coastal paths from Vilamoura to Praia da Falésia with stunning views.
Water Parks: Visit thrilling water parks like Slide & Splash, Aqualand, and Aquashow.
Zoomarine: A fantastic marine-themed water park that's fun for the whole family.
Bars and Nightlife: Enjoy Vilamoura's vibrant nightlife at a variety of lively bars and pubs.
Stroll to Quarteira: Follow the beach front promenade to Quarteira that passes the traditional fishing harbour
Day Trip to Faro: Explore Faro's historic Old Town, markets, and Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Parque Ambiental: Discover diverse birdlife and tranquil walking paths in this protected wetland.
Surfing: Surf or paddleboard at Praia da Falésia with equipment rentals and lessons.
Dining in Vilamoura: Vilamoura offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets
The Beaches: Relax on Vilamoura's golden beaches with water sports and chic beach clubs.
Karting de Almancil: Experience high-speed thrills on a professional go-kart racing track.
Cerro da Vila: Explore ancient Roman ruins and mosaics at this archaeological site.

The interactive map below marks the location of the best sights and activities of Vilamoura. (Note: zoom in or out to see all of the points.)

Legend: 1) Benagil Cave 2) Loulé 3) Victoria: Golf Course 4) Old Course: Golf Course 5) Pinhal Golf Course 6) Praia da Falésia hiking trail 7) Slide & Splash 8) Aqualand 9) Aquashow 10) Zoomarine 11) Quarteira 12) Faro 13) Praia de Vilamoura beach 14) Praia da Rocha Baixinha beach 15) Karting de Almancil 16) Cerro da Vila

The following section provides details and links of all of the best activities and sights in Vilamoura.

Benagil Cave is a natural wonder that will leave you awestruck. This massive sea cave, formed over thousands of years by erosion, features a dome-like ceiling with a circular opening known as the "eye." Sunlight streams through this opening, creating a mesmerizing play of light on the golden sand beach below and the colorful rock walls.

The best way to reach this geological marvel is via one of the many boat tours that depart from Vilamoura Marina. Along the boat tour, you'll pass by stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and unique rock formations that characterize this stretch of coastline. Some tours extend further out to sea for dedicated dolphin watching, offering a chance to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.

Depending on the tour, there may be stops at secluded beaches or calm spots where you can take a refreshing swim in the chilly Atlantic Ocean or simply relax and sunbathe on the boat.

There are many varied tours and options, but typically they last 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion, and cost between €30 and €50.

Benagil Cave and the surrounding coastline is best explored by a boat trip

Just a short journey from Vilamoura lies Loulé, a charming town that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Portuguese life. This delightful destination makes for an ideal day trip, providing a stark contrast to the resort atmosphere of Vilamoura.

At the heart of Loulé is its bustling daily market (closed Sundays), housed in a stunning North African-inspired building. Here, you'll find an array of local produce, fresh fish, and handcrafted souvenirs. The market's vibrant atmosphere and enticing aromas make it a feast for the senses.

Beyond the market, Loulé's cobbled backstreets invite exploration. Wander past quaint houses and peek into small workshops where artisans practice traditional crafts. The town exudes an authentically Portuguese ambience, with locals chatting in open-air cafés and elderly gentlemen watching the world go by from their favourite benches.

A day trip to Loulé offers a refreshing change of pace and a chance to experience the genuine warmth of Portuguese culture.
Related articles: Loulé guide

The Mercado Municipal is filled with traditional market stalls

Loulé is a pretty place to visit as a day trip

Vilamoura's vast Praia da Falésia offers a great location for surfing, especially if you're newer to the sport. The waves at Falésia beach may not rival the western Algarve's famous breaks, but its gentler conditions are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers looking to hone their skills.

Vilamoura Surf, (vilamourasurf.com) located in the marina, provides equipment rentals and lessons. A full day's surfboard and wetsuit rental costs €30, or €25 for a half-day, or there are Bodyboards are available for €15. On calmer days, try Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) to paddle around the marina or sea for €40 per day, again which can be hired from Vilamoura Surf.

There is a very scenic beachside and cliff-top hiking trail from Vilamoura to the western side of the Praia da Falésia, which takes in the distinctive orange cliffs.

The route starts along the coastal trail to the Praia dos Tomates, a pleasant 1.5km stretch of pristine beach. From here, the landscape transforms as you reach the distinctive orange cliffs that give Praia da Falésia its character.

Continue along the cliff-top trail for another 2.5km to Pine Cliffs Golf Course, where you'll find the scenic Ravina do Amor viewpoint. This section offers breathtaking vistas of the golden beach and turquoise sea below.

For the return, descend to the beach and wander along the beach back to Vilamoura. The cliff tops are also a popular mountain bike route for experienced riders (but the route can be dangerous due to the cliffs).

The cliff top trail at the wester side of the Praia da Falésia

Vilamoura is the heart of the Algarve's renowned golfing scene, boasting six outstanding courses that cater to players of all skill levels. These include:
• Pinhal: Pine-lined fairways with scenic views.
• Old Course: Classic layout, mature trees, challenging play.
• Laguna: Links-style, open layout that includes water hazards.
• Millennium: Modern designed course with many varied holes.
• Victoria: Championship course that hosts the Portugal Masters.
• Vila Sol: A 27 holes course just outside of Vilamoura

Each course offers unique challenges and landscapes, and for detailed information about the Dom Pedro courses, see their website: www.dompedrogolf.com

In the marina complex, there are golfing agencies who can organise transport and club hire.
Insight: If your primary reason to visit the Algarve is for a golfing holiday, then there is no better destination than Vilamoura.

The Pinhal Golf Course

There are three water parks within easy reach of Vilamoura: Slide and Splash, Aqualand, and Aquashow. Each park boasts its own unique array of attractions, from heart-stopping vertical drops to leisurely lazy rivers.

Aquashow Park (4km from Vilamoura) boasts Europe's longest water coaster and one of the world's tallest free-fall slides. It also features Portugal's largest wave pool and tropical gardens. Aquashow is also open year-round with a heated indoor section for the cooler winter months. www.aquashowparkhotel.com
Slide & Splash (46km from Vilamoura) is one of Portugal's largest water parks. With 17 diverse attractions including the Black Hole and Tornado rides, it caters to all ages and thrill levels: www.slidesplash.com
Aqualand (35km from Vilamoura) offers a more family-oriented experience. While smaller than its counterparts, Aqualand tends to be less crowded, making it a good choice for a family day out to a water park: www.aqualand.pt

Slide and Splash

Over the previous seven years we have worked with GetYourGuide.com and a selection of their best activities for Vilamoura include:

Located in Guia, near Albufeira, Zoomarine is an oceanographic theme park that has become a must-visit attraction in the Algarve. This 8-hectare wonderland offers a perfect blend of entertainment and education, making it an ideal destination for families and couples alike.

At the heart of Zoomarine are its spectacular animal shows, featuring dolphins, sea lions, and tropical birds. These performances not only entertain but also educate visitors about marine conservation. The park's modern facilities ensure the animals receive excellent care.

Beyond the shows, Zoomarine boasts a diverse array of attractions. The Zoomarine Beach water park features thrilling slides, a wave pool, and the adventurous Jurassic River. For those seeking drier thrills, there's a mini rollercoaster and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views.

Don't miss the aquarium, butterfly house, and various animal exhibits scattered throughout the park. With its commitment to ocean life conservation and ecological awareness, Zoomarine offers an unforgettable day out that's both fun and enlightening.
https://www.zoomarine.pt/en/

The water park section of Zoomarine

The dolphin show at Zoomarine

Vilamoura offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. From Michelin-starred establishments to casual beachside eateries, you'll find a wealth of dining options.

For a truly special experience, Willie's Restaurant serves up European and international cuisine in an elegant setting. Seafood lovers should head to O Marisco or The Fisherman's Shack, both known for their fresh catches and traditional Portuguese dishes. If you're craving a perfect steak, Pepper's Steakhouse and Rui's Steakhouse are local favorites.

For international flavors, try Restaurante Akvavit for a unique blend of Mediterranean and Scandinavian cuisine, or Il Lamparo for authentic Italian dishes. Beach dining reaches new heights at Thai Beach Club, where you can enjoy Thai and international dishes with a side of sea views. For a taste of traditional Portugal, Zagalo Restaurant offers local specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

Many restaurants are concentrated around the marina, providing beautiful waterfront views as you dine. Remember to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a table at the more popular establishments.

One of the Algarve’s regional cuisines is cataplana, a delicious seafood stew, which is cooked and served in a large copper dish that resembles a clam. A Cataplana is designed to be shared, with the copper dish being placed in the centre of the table.

The restaurants of Vilamoura overlook the marina

A delicious seafood Cataplana

Faro, the capital of the Algarve, offers a delightful contrast to the region's beach resorts, making it an excellent choice for a day trip. This often-overlooked city boasts a rich history and natural beauty offers visitors a refreshing alternative to the typical Algarve experience.

The heart of Faro lies within its ancient walled Old Town, or Cidade Velha. Here, cobblestone streets lead to impressive historical landmarks including the fortified Sé Cathedral, with its stunning views from the bell tower, and the imposing Arco da Vila gateway. Don't miss the macabre yet fascinating Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) within the Igreja do Carmo, where the walls are adorned with the skulls and bones of over 1,000 monks, serving as a haunting reminder of human mortality.

Outside the walls, Faro's pedestrianised shopping streets buzz with activity. Lined with open-air cafés and traditional Portuguese tascas, these areas offer the perfect spot to savour local cuisine and watch the world go by.

Nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a protected coastal lagoon system accessible from Faro's harbour. Boat tours through this unique ecosystem provide opportunities to spot diverse birdlife and maybe even catch a glimpse of the park's resident chameleons.
Related articles: Faro guide - Day trip to Faro

Faro has a charming historic centre

The mudflats and water ways of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa as seen from the top of Faro Cathedral

The Parque Ambiental de Vilamoura is a protected wetland area that follows the Ribeira de Quarteira River, squeezed between the Victoria Golf course and the tourist sprawl of Olhos de Água.

The park's diverse habitats, including reed beds, farmlands, and ponds, attract a wide variety of birdlife, including kingfishers, herons, purple swamphens, and even flamingos.

The Parque Ambiental de Vilamoura features a network of easy walking paths and cycling routes, offering a perfect tranquil escape from the bustling Algarve coast.

The Ribeira de Quarteira as it heads to the sea

Vilamoura boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve region of Portugal. The two main beaches in Vilamoura are Praia de Vilamoura and Praia da Falésia, which offer very different beach experiences.

The Praia de Vilamoura is located between the Vilamoura marina and Quarteira's fishing port. This beach features soft golden sands and clean waters, making it ideal for families. It is semi-sheltered from strong Atlantic currents by a sea groyne, resulting in calm and safe waters for swimming. The beach offers excellent facilities, including sun loungers and parasols for rent, as well as the upscale Purobeach complex for those seeking a luxurious beach experience.

The Praia da Falésia stretches for 6km from Vilamoura to Olhos de Água, and is one of the most magnificent beaches of the central Algarve. The beach is characterised by its distinctive red sandstone cliffs at its western end, while to the east are vast swathes of pristine sands. Falésia has larger waves and much more space, so is better for surfing.
Related articles: Vilamoura beaches

The beautiful Praia de Vilamoura won’t be this quiet in the summer!

The eastern side of the Praia da Falésia

Karting de Almancil offers an exciting racing experience for motorsport enthusiasts. The facility features a 760-meter circuit modeled after the Formula 1 Jacarepagua track in Rio de Janeiro. This track, inaugurated by racing legend Ayrton Senna in 1992, provides an authentic racing experience.

The venue offers a range of kart options to suit different preferences and skill levels. As of 2024, visitors can choose between 200cc karts for €17 or more powerful 390cc karts for €25, with each session lasting 10 minutes.

The well-maintained track and professional staff ensure a secure environment for drivers of all skill levels and ages. For current prices, opening hours, and booking information, visit: www.kartingalgarve.com

The 390cc karts at Karting de Almancil are fast!

Vilamoura offers a diverse range of bars to suit every taste and budget. At Marina de Vilamoura, you'll find lively spots like the 19th Hole, a sports bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music. For those seeking an Irish pub experience, O'Neills and O'Shea's Irish Pub provide friendly environments with live sports screenings and traditional drinks.

If you're looking for a more upscale experience, Purobeach Vilamoura offers a chic beach club setting with sunbeds, fresh food, and fruity drinks. For wine enthusiasts, Oporto Tavern Wine & Cocktail Bar provides a sophisticated atmosphere with an extensive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails. Sports fans will appreciate the Hole in One Pub, which offers a relaxed vibe and live sports screenings.

For a local feel, Patacas Bar is popular among both residents and tourists, featuring dartboards and a diverse drinks menu. Finally, if you're after a cozy, casual night out, Biddy Jane's provides a welcoming atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. Whether you're seeking a lively sports bar or a quiet spot for a nightcap, Vilamoura's bar scene has something for everyone.

The Cerro da Vila Roman Villa, situated on the edge of Vilamoura's marina complex, offers visitors insight into the region's rich history. This archaeological site, inhabited as early as the 1st century BC, contains the remains of a wealthy Roman family's maritime villa.

The site's discovery occurred by chance in 1963 when a local farmer plowed up Roman mosaic fragments in his field. Excavations began the following year and have continued into recent years, uncovering foundations of the villa, baths, a necropolis, dams, and fish salting stations.

Well-preserved mosaics with maritime themes are a highlight, illustrating Roman artistic techniques and coastal life. Evidence indicates continued occupation beyond the Roman period, including Visigoth (5th-6th centuries AD) and Muslim (after 9th century) inhabitants.

As of 2024, admission fees are €4 for adults (14-64), €2 for seniors (65+) and students, free for children (0-13), and €2 per person for groups of 10 or more.

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