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The Best Water Sports in the Algarve | Jardim da Meia Praia

Portugal is a small country by the sea, whose history developed in the rush of sea voyages to discover new worlds overseas. Other nationalities now visit Portugal to experience what it is like to enjoy adventures on land and water. The Algarve is one of the perfect places for tourists who love water sports. Here they can enjoy the more challenging sea of the Vicentina Coast or the calmer and warmer sea of the south coast. The meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea offers experiences in the Algarve that are suitable for all ages. If you have not had the opportunity to do water sports in the Algarve and do not know which sport is best for you, follow our list and enjoy your holiday on the crest of the waves!

What are the water temperatures in the Algarve?

Find out about the water temperatures in the region even before you go on an experience in the Algarve. Knowing that you will be able to enjoy the water with pleasant temperatures will encourage you to practise sea sports and take endless swims on the beach. In the Algarve, temperatures vary depending on the season and the region. As the Eastern Algarve is closer to the Mediterranean Sea, it is only natural that the water is warmer on this side of the Algarve. In the Western Algarve, on the other hand, temperatures are pleasant but somewhat colder, especially around the Vicentine coast.

The sea in the Algarve gets colder from December to March, with temperatures between 160C/60.80F and 170C/62.60F degrees. From April to June, temperatures rise and can reach 170C/62.60F to 200C/680F degrees. In July, August and September, temperatures are the mildest and most pleasant to stay in the water for long periods. These temperatures reach up to 220C/71.60F degrees during the summer months. In October and November, temperatures are still inviting for water sports and reach an excellent 200C/680F in autumn.

What are the best water sports in the Algarve?

The Algarve is famous for its beaches, crystal clear waters and golden rocks. So why not make the most of this landscape? If you are looking for more than the usual beach holiday and want to feel the adrenaline of sea sports, choose one of the water activities we suggest, and make the most of your days under the Algarve sun.

1. Surf

Surfing is a sport that is practised somewhat everywhere, but surfers who visit the Algarve feel at home. There are several beaches in the Western Algarve that offer the best conditions for practising this water sport. From deserted beaches in winter to favourable winds that create waves of the right size for experienced surfers and beginners, choose the right one for you. Do you know which are the best surf spots in the Algarve?

Sagres – The beach we recommend for experienced surfers is Ponta Ruiva. Always watch out for the rocks when surfing. For beginners, we recommend Zavial beach, whose natural beauty leaves no one indifferent.

Aljezur – Surfing beginners can ride the waves of Amado beach and spend a lovely day with the family between the river and the sea on this vast sandy beach. Bordeira beach lies a little further north, an excellent spot for surfers of all experience levels. Only surf on the left side of the beach if you are very experienced in this sport.

2. Kitesurfing

When you think of kitesurfing, Portugal may not be the first place that comes to mind. Actually, there are several spots in Portugal with favourable wind conditions for kitesurfing, and some schools and shops rent the necessary equipment. If you have never heard of this water sport, you should know that in kitesurfing, the wind is the basis for you to glide over the sea with a kite and a board attached to your ankles. The best places to kitesurf in the Algarve are:

Alvor – The Alvor river is ideal for kitesurfing, surrounded by untouched nature and calm waters. Once you've achieved some experience, you may go straight to the sea from the river. Find out about the nearest kitesurf school.

Tavira – Cabanas de Tavira, in the Algarve's east, is the second ideal location for kitesurfing. Here the sea temperature, the winds and the safe environment are good conditions to learn to ride the waves with the power of the wind. This is the school closest to the beach.

3. Speed boats with inflatables

The next suggestion is not a sea sport, but a water activity full of adrenaline, suitable for the most fearless. If you have adrenaline pumping through your veins, try being pulled by a boat at high speed in an inflatable. Just a few minutes away from the Jardim da Meia Praia resort, you can experience strong emotions with your friends or family in this experience in the Algarve, Meia Praia. See what awaits you here.

4. Jet Ski

We'd like to continue with suggestions for adrenaline-pumping water activities, this time on a different beach. If you haven't had a chance to get to know Praia da Luz yet, this is the ideal time. Just 12 minutes away is one of the most spectacular activities for speed lovers: a ride on a jet ski! Share this pleasure with one of your friends and ride your own jet ski along the beach of Praia da Luz. See how to rent your vehicle here.

5. Stand-Up Paddle

The Lagos coast is full of caves and rock formations, a natural beauty worth visiting. One of the best ways to get to know Lagos is by sea, cruising along the seafront on a stand up paddle board, in a personalized and peaceful tour without large crowds. This water sports activity allows you to enjoy the moment while exercising at any time of the day. At this Stand-Up Paddle school, you can book a meeting point on Batata beach or schedule your pick-up at Jardim da Meia Praia.

Make the most of your holiday and enjoy the breathtaking scenery while doing water sports in the Algarve. In addition to Jardim da Meia Praia, you have the opportunity to practise various water sports or activities in nature. Find out about activities for children here, or ask at our reception for more recommendations.