Praia da Rocha – Algarve Portugal

The Algarve’s first ever tourist location, Praia da Rocha is still a popular holiday destination today. It has fantastic nightlife, beautiful scenery and spectacular beaches. The beach is close to the bustling city of Portimao and is ideal if you’re in need of escaping to a stunning location. Perfect with friends or with the family.

Excellent beaches

Praia da Rocha is renowned for its fantastic beaches that are sheltered by dramatic sandstone cliffs which are said to be some of the best in the Algarve. Follow the steps down to the long and wide stretch of golden sand, where you can soak up the glorious sunshine by reclining on sun loungers and under parasols. There are other smaller beaches in coves along the coast, which are accessible via a connecting tunnel. If you’re in need of something a little more uplifting, why not try your hand at the variety of water sports available to you; speed along the waves on a jet ski, take to windsurfing or gently bob through the water on a SUP tour.

History and culture

Praia da Rocha is right next door to Portimao; it’s often considered connected to the bustling city and was the Algarve’s first ever tourist destination. Praia da Rocha translates to ‘rock beach’ in English. This may be because of its favourable cliff-top location giving spectacular views of the glistening waters and the River Arade. It’s the second biggest resort in the area next to Albufeira and has fantastic beaches and a great nightlife.

Fantastic nightlife

Praia da Rocha transforms from being a place to relax under by the beach, into an upbeat resort where dancing and entertainment is high on the agenda. With a great number of restaurants lining the streets, eating out couldn’t be more enjoyable. Delicious food is served in the feel-good vibe that this resort is famous for. There are a lot of great bars to choose from including sports bars, Irish pubs, karaoke bars and discos. Cocktails are easily found, with fruity flavours being served in the upbeat bars across the resort. Dance the night away in one of the nightclubs or visit the bars and hotel venues that host live music. Praia da Rocha is a modern resort with lively nightlife, which makes it easy to find something to do in the evening to suit your tastes.