Weather Lowdown
The first month of the spring season, March brings with it the start of the warm and sunny weather that attracts so many to the Algarve region. The weather is already beginning to improve somewhat, and temperatures on land and sea creep upwards, while rainfall lessens. In March you can expect an average daily temperature of 14°C, but with average highs of 17°C and lows of 11°C. This can mean there are days where the temperature goes beyond this, and the weather at this time of year can be truly pleasant as a result.
The sea temperature stills averages at 16°C, but with the warmer air temperatures, the more courageous types may brave the water and make the most of those hotter-than-average days.
The big bonus of travelling to Praia da Rocha in March, rather than earlier in the year, is the substantial difference in rainfall. This is when the dry, warm weather really starts to come into its own. An average of only 37mm falls in March, over an average of eight days so the month is substantially drier than those earlier in the year. Of course, this dry, hot weather will only increase as the months move on. April and May will see even higher temperatures and even less rainfall.
March is also the month when the landscape changes hugely, and walks in the outdoors will bring with it some great opportunities to witness the flora and fauna of the region at its most vibrant. Nature-lovers will love the wildflowers and orchids, as well as the activity among populations of migrating birds. For those who are more attracted to the nightlife and fine-dining of the resort, March sees a growing number of restaurants, cafés, bars and nightclubs re-open for the season, while still offering the slower pace that is on offer at this time of year.
Where to Stay
March sees the Hotel Vila Lido re-opening for the high-season, and it's a great chance to grab a room in this small, modest, comfortable hotel. With staff that are famous for their hospitality, some of the best room views in Praia Da Rocha, and a style that is a refreshing alternative to the more modern hotels in the area, this is a top choice.
The Aparthotel Turisticos Algarve Mor offers well-priced and excellently located apartments on the west end of the beach. One and two-bed apartments are available, all with furnished balconies, and some with views directly towards the beach. There are separate living rooms, a full-equipped kitchenette and a terrace pool with sun loungers. The apartments come in at excellent value particularly out of season.
Standard, but reliable 3-star accommodation is offered by the Hotel Avenido Praia, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms and friendly staff. Rooms at the back are best for light sleepers in busy months. Rates are reasonable, the nightclub is directly across the road and the beach is 2 minutes away.
Things to Do
In March Portimão plays host to the International Festival of Percussion, now in its fifth year, with an array of interesting, innovative, Portuguese and international percussion musicians playing in a series of workshops and performances around the centre of the city.
Lagos, located just 30 minutes away, is worth a visit in its own right, and there is no better way to see the town, learn about the historical developments of the city, and enjoy the sea breezes than on one of Nunu's informative tuk-tuk tours. They are affordable, can take up to six people, and will even entertain the teenagers!
Wildwatch Algarve tours are highly recommended for Dolphin watching and wildlife tours around the coast of the Algarve, with guaranteed sightings on their 1.5 hour and 3 hour tours. Owner André Dias comes from a local fishing family, is a qualified marine biologist, and his passion and sensitivities for local eco-systems is shared by all the team. Departures take place from Marina de Portimão in Praia da Rocha. Seafaris also offer dolphin watching trips from Marina da Portmão.
Hit the Beach
The water may still not be quite warm enough for a swim, but the sea will look just as beautiful in the March-sunshine at this time of year. The 2km stretch of golden sand that makes up Praia da Rocha's main beach is great for long walks. It has a wooden boardwalk that runs its entire length, and is lined by stunning cliffs that appear almost amber in the certain lights.
Restaurants and Nightlife
For one of the better dining experiences in Praia da Rocha, get along to Humberto's Restaurant which is close to the main run of bars and restaurants on Avenue Tomás Cabreira. Friendly welcomes, great service and a menu that keeps people coming back for more. The Chicken Piri Piri comes highly recommended! The prices are very reasonable for such quality.
Irish bars are a big feature in Praia da Rocha, and it can be difficult to avoid them. This is down the regular Irish visitors who come through, the number of Irish people who've made Rocha their home, and of course the fact that the Irish pub is such a popular place to spend an evening. As with many others, the Farmer's Irish Pub offers friendly staff, good music and a fun night out. During the summer months there is live music most nights, sports games are usually broadcast and it keeps a menu of popular Irish drinks.
For anyone looking for something other than a pint of Guinness, there are venues offering wine and cocktails as their main tipple. Mojito Temple Bar is one such place, located on the Rua Antonio Feu, in the thick of the action. It's an elegant place, and as its name suggests, mojito is the specialty, but there is an extensive cocktails menu. It opens until 4am, and there are themed nights during the summer months.
