Weather Lowdown
In the lead up to the busy summer holiday season, average temperatures are mild, extending to around 18°C, before steadily increasing somewhere in the vicinity of 3° over the coming months of June, July and August. The mean lowest temperature is registered at 14° C so you may still want a jacket in the evenings but it is definitely getting warmer, with highs of 22°C.
By the end of spring and start of summer, the days are becoming progressively longer and visitors to this eye-catching part of the Iberian Peninsula can expect 12 long sunshine hours per day and ample time to pursue many of the local attractions around Praia de Rocha. As with the general change of the season, the Atlantic Ocean waters are also gradually increasing whereby, on average, sea temperatures during May are just below 18°C, a tolerable ocean bathing temperature. Only a small change can be expected over the course of summer and by August, temperatures may rise between by 3°C on average at most.
Southern Portugal is characterised by fairly dry springs and summers and average precipitation rates for May are below 20 mm, a significant reduction from April where more than double that amount was to be expected. The season becomes increasingly dry over the coming 4 months and there are, generally speaking, very few rainy days over the course of May. Usually visitors to Portugal at this time of year can expect to experience on average just 7 days of rainfall occurrence, thus ensuring minimal interruption of outdoor activities.
Where to Stay
When the weather starts to heat up, as it does in May, and the crowds also begin to grow, staying at a hotel with its own poolside views of the famous Praia da Rocha beach, and direct beach access, is about as good as it gets. For that reason an apartment at the Jardim Do Vau is a must at this time of year. Rates are mid-range, and the apartments are equipped with generous balconies (with sun-beds to enjoy the views from), are airy, south-facing and sunny. Apart from the endless choices of restaurants, bars and clubs nearby, it's the perfect location to catch the sunset from.
Hotel Santa Catarina is located just 1km from Portimão, and is on the way into Praia da Rocha, so it's a good choice for visitors who don't want to be located directly in the middle of the busiest parts, and who may also like to visit Portimão regularly. It's also close enough to Praia da Rocha's restaurants, bars and beaches to make it a good choice either way. It's not a very modern hotel, but it offers clean, comfortable accommodation and good location. It does not come with the bells and whistles of other hotels in the area there is no bar or pool, but with everything on the doorstep, and 3-star hotel prices, this may not be an issue for most visitors.
As things get busy in Praia da Rocha, it can be good to know some accommodation options that are reasonably priced, a little off the beaten track, and offer the options of some quieter environs. The Hotel Alcaide is actually located in the neighbouring resort of Praia do Vau, but only 2.2km from the main parts of Praia da Rocha. The hotel is a small, basic, but clean and charming, with exceptionally good prices.
Things to Do
The cuisine and wine of the Algarve region has a lot to boast, and any trip will be enhanced by taking some time out to sample the best tastes and flavours of Portimão and its surrounds. A unique way to do this is in a classic motorcycle sidecar with your own private tour guide. This half-day gastronomic tour with the Bike My Side Company will include a trip to a winery and a number of stops along the way to enjoy local tapas.
The invitation from the West Coast Adventure Company to join them as they "hike, hop and scramble our way deep into the coast's most secret and spectacular spots, while bringing the landscape to life with stories of strange and awesome rocks, wildflowers and history" speaks for itself. The company's guide JD gets rave reviews, and the short 30 minute trip to Lagos, might be worth it for this very unique experience.
Adrenalin junkies should make their way to the Autódromo do Algarve in nearby Portimão for the ultimate go-karting experience. This professional, high-spec track is one of the largest in Europe, and offers tracks for under-6 years, as well as adult options with additional features to challenge more experienced drivers. It has restaurants, shops and a wide range of vehicles to choose from.
Hit the Beach
With temperatures slowly climbing at this time of year, and some intermittent days where the temperature climbs past 20°C, it's time to start enjoying the beach. The longest beach in the Algarve, with over 2km of sandy shoreline this place doesn't get too crowded. It has a wooden walkway running the full length, so wheelchair users and parents with young children can also enjoy a stroll without too much difficulty. Visitors can hire parasols, sun-beds and anything you might need to make the most of the sunshine. Water sports activities and equipment are also available and all options are covered.
For experienced surfers, who are looking for a bit of an adventure, the oldest surf school in the Algarve, Future Surfing School offers surf trips to the best, and less frequented spots on the Algarve coastline, as well as the unique opportunity to surf and visit the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina. Few surf school scan offer access to the spots they can, and they boast professional and friendly instructors and guides.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Restaurante Bar O Farol is easy to get to, and boasts a popular seafood menu at good prices. The location directly on the beach is excellent, and the food comes in a close second. For people wanting to try traditional Portuguese food, request the daily special. Otherwise there is a wide range of Mediterranean-style dishes and seafood, and a lovely bar to enjoy while you wait for a table.
A staple for many people visiting the resort is the friendly, relaxed Squash Bar just a few streets back from the waterfront. José, the owner, his wife Maria and their daughter are well-known to regular visitors, who appreciate the cool beers, the free Wi-Fi, the pool table and the warm welcome.
The Aqua Lounge is a place to get dressed up for, and is located in the Hotel Tivoli Marina Portimão with great cocktails and stunning views over the port.
