Weather Lowdown
In many ways, the month of February offers similar weather to that found in January. The average temperature is also 13°C, with a maximum average high of 16°C and a low of 10°C. February gains an extra hour of sunshine however, with an average of 7 hours of sunshine per day.
There is only a marginal difference between sea temperatures in January and February, with these only beginning to rise substantially again in May and June. In February the average sea temperature is 16°C, tolerable for water-sports fans wearing wet-suits, but not really warm enough for swimming on a daily basis.
The most distinguishable element between the January and February weather is the rainfall. February receives on average 67mm of rain over an average of 8 days. This translates to a greater number of rain-free days, but with a higher average overall level of rainfall. For Northern European visitors however, it still offers a very attractive dose of clear, sunny, days with far less rainfall than seen elsewhere at that time of the year. Just one month later, March sees a significant drop in rainfall, as does April and the months leading on from that, when the weather is quite dry in Praia da Rocha.
If heat is the deciding factor for holiday makers at this time of year, destinations in the Canary Islands are more likely to offer higher temperatures, lower rainfall and warmer seas, in particular Gran Canaria or Tenerife. However, spending time in Praia da Rocha in the Algarve at this time of year is still very agreeable particularly for those who find the higher temperatures and the crowds difficult to handle later in the season. It's also a great time to make use of the milder weather for active outdoors activities that can be a little more challenging in the scorching sunshine of the summer months.
Where to Stay
In February, low-season offers are still possible to find, and there are more options for accommodation as a result.
The fabulous Hotel Oriental, wins the praise of visitors repeatedly. The friendly, professional, helpful staff do a great job of welcoming their guests to the opulent, luxurious accommodation. The prices are very reasonable in the off-peak season, and it's in a great location. Request a room with sea-view for the best vista.
A more affordable option, with basic, but clean accommodation are the apartments at Flor da Rocha. There aren't many extras or additional features to the complex, and they aren't the prettiest to look at from the outside, but this self-catering option will offer friendly staff and a good location. They do have a pool, and are located just a few streets back from the beach.
Hotel Luar is best off season, as the better rooms are available. It's basic, clean and well-located, with excellent views from the sea-view rooms. It appeals to some guests who like the quieter position at the end of the beach.
Things to Do
February is an exciting month to be in Portugal, and particularly in the Algarve region, as local towns and cities explode with a burst of parades, costumes, floats, music and dance to mark Carnival. Whether you are hoping to find some romance with a significant other, or relax and chill out in some mild-Winter sunshine, you will find lots to choose from.
In the Portimão area, carnival dances happen for a few weeks in the run up to Carnival itself. The dates change from year to year according to when Easter falls so check out up-to-date local listings to see what's on offer. Or try catching one of the fabulous masked balls in the area. For a more extravagant offering, it may be worth the journey (approximately 60km) to the town of Loule, to witness the oldest and most well-known carnival parades in the country.
For the more adventurous out-door enthusiast, a dry day in February can be a great time to take a thrilling off-road cycling tour with Algarve Outdoor Tours. These take place every month of the year, taking in the beautiful surrounds of the Serra de Monchique. A better option to do while the temperatures are a comfortable average of 13°C, the guides are helpful and supportive and know the local area well.
If you want a romantic, spectacular and memorable experience, Barlavento Balloons could be the perfect activity particularly for couples, in and around February 14th. They offer pick-ups for an additional cost of 25 from Portimão, and for those who want to spend the extra cash, there is an option to book the balloon for an exclusive experience. Otherwise, there are usually six people on board, a wonderfully experienced pilot, a glass of bubbly, some local snacks and the most stunning views of the Algarve imaginable.
Restaurants and Nightlife
The nearby town of Carvoeiro (11km from Portimão) offers a chance to try out the local menu on offer at Taste Restaurant. With a friendly service, a wide array of meat, vegetarian and tapas dishes, and the promise of live local musicians serenading you while you dine, it really is a great choice. They often organise live music on St Valentine's night, and there's some lovely fireside tables for those chillier evenings.
A cosy, welcoming Irish bar offering a complementary shot, and a warm chat with Geraldine the owner, and the company of her friendly dog Rocco, is just the place to unwind on a February evening. The Snug Bar, offers the Irish bar atmosphere, and feels like a local bar away from home. Live music, quiz nights, karaoke on occasion and plenty of laughs with the sometimes boisterous crowd.
If a glass of the local wine in a beachside location is desired, the Restaurant Bar Atlantico, does better than its neighbours in offering quality Portuguese and Seafood dishes. This family business, makes the most of the local supply of fresh fish and seafood, and serves it with a smile. Beautiful, innovative nautical themed decor and a great location included.
