Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about the Algarve without a car (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in the Algarve for families with kids.
I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in the Algarve for families, along with a map. I’ll also share where I stayed in the Algarve and recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels for various budgets.
The Algarve is a region located in the southernmost part of Portugal. It is renowned for its stunning coastline, with golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages.
Tourism is the main industry in the Algarve, with millions of visitors flocking to the region each year to enjoy its beaches, golf courses, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.
However, the Algarve also has a rich cultural heritage, with historic towns such as Lagos, Faro, and Tavira offering charming cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and cultural attractions.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural sites, the Algarve is known for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and flavorful spices. Popular dishes include grilled sardines, cataplana (a seafood stew), and pastel de nata (custard tarts).
Is the Algarve a good place to visit with family?
Yes, the Algarve region is widely regarded as a fantastic destination for families. Your family can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports activities on beautiful beaches.
Beyond the beaches, the Algarve offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities suitable for families, including hiking, biking, boat tours, and dolphin watching excursions.
The Algarve is home to various water parks and theme parks, including Zoomarine and Slide & Splash, which provide fun-filled experiences for the whole family.
Where to stay in the Algarve for families with kids?
The best areas to stay in the Algarve for families with kids are Albufeira, Carvoeiro, Praia da Rocha, Lagos, Vilamoura, and Alvor. Each area and hotel has its pros and cons, so I recommend reading the reviews to see if it suits your family budgets and preferences.
Albufeira is one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly atmosphere. The Old Town area is particularly charming with its narrow streets, traditional restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
Carvoeiro is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great choice for families looking for a quieter, more laid-back holiday.
Lagos is a historic town with a charming old town area, beautiful beaches, and a lively atmosphere. Families can take boat trips to the nearby caves and grottoes, water sports, and cultural attractions such as the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse and the Lagos Zoo.
Vilamoura is a purpose-built resort town known for its marina, golf courses, and luxury hotels. It’s a great choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities such as golf, tennis, and water sports. The marina area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
During my trip to the Algarve, I stayed at the mid-range Alfagar Alto da Colina. It was in a great location close to the beach, far enough away from nightlife, but only a 10 mins Uber/taxi ride (cheap) to the old town and strip of Albufeira. They have lots of space and activities for the kids, including multiple pools, two aqua parks, zip line, sports grounds.
Below is a map of the popular areas in the Algarve for families. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in the Algarve, especially for families. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in the Algarve have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best areas to stay in the Algarve with family:
1. Albufeira
Albufeira is an excellent choice for a family holiday in the Algarve, offering beautiful beaches, a wide range of accommodations, family-friendly attractions, and a charming atmosphere in the Old Town area.
Albufeira boasts beautiful beaches with soft sands and clear waters, such as Falésia Beach, Praia de São Rafael, Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman’s Beach) and Praia da Oura, which are suitable for families with children.
The historic Old Town area of Albufeira is a charming maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Families can explore the quaint streets, visit the local market, and enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine in family-friendly restaurants.
In addition to beach fun, Albufeira offers plenty of activities for families to enjoy. You can take a boat trip along the coastline to explore sea caves and spot dolphins, visit nearby water parks such as Zoomarine and Aqualand, or enjoy mini-golf, horse riding, and other attractions.
Take note that accommodation on or near the Albufeira Strip might be not good for the light sleepers or families with younger children. It is quite a busy party area, so it can be noisy and crowded. You can book your accommodation in the old town or its surrounding areas.
Additionally, Albufeira in general has lots of steps, so you might find yourself walking up and down hills from your accommodations to old town and beaches.
Best places to stay in Algarve in Albufeira with family:
Luxury ($$$): Jupiter Albufeira Hotel – Family & Fun – All Inclusive, 5-star family-friendly hotel located in the tranquil Montechoro area, a bit away from places of interest, but you can use free shuttle service/Uber ride to Oura Beach and Albufeira’s old town (10 mins drive). It has a water park, outdoor pools, and Exceptional Breakfast. Perfect place for families with children of all ages.
Luxury ($$$): Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Hotel Spa, 5-star family-friendly hotel in a great location away from the main town, close to the beach. There are shuttle buses taking you to both old town and new town. They have a great kids club with a wonderful team taking care of the children. Swimming pools are of good size with good temperature.
Mid-range ($$): Eden Resort, 4-star kid-friendly well kept resort in Albufeira, located in a quiet area, within a short taxi ride into Albufeira old town. It has 5 indoor and outdoor pools, a kids club, and wonderful breakfasts. Great base for all families of 4, 5,6,7,8. The four-bedroom villa with a private pool can accommodate up to 8 family members.
Mid-range ($$): Cerro Mar Atlantico & Cerro Mar Garden, 4-star family-friendly hotel located on the hills with amazing views of Albufeira’s old town. It is close enough to the town center and beach but far enough to avoid the party life at night. Walking down to the old town via steps might be difficult for families with a stroller but there are reasonably priced shuttle and taxis if you don’t want to walk. It has one, two, three-bedroom apartments with well-appointed kitchens.
Mid-range ($$): Alfagar Aparthotel, 4-star family-friendly hotel with nice facilities, in a quiet location, close to beautiful sandy beaches (via steps), 10 minutes to Albufeira in a taxi. Good base if you have a car, so you can easily get around. But there are also lots of Uber/ taxis which are cheap to use. They have lots of pools for the kids with slides and water fountains.
Mid-range ($$): Vila Petra, 4-star family-friendly aparthotel located within easy access to both the strip and Old Town. Easy to walk to shops, restaurants and mini supermarkets. Hotel has lots of entertainment for adults and the kids enjoy.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN ALBUFEIRA2. Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is a fantastic choice for a family holiday in the Algarve, offering beautiful beaches and a charming town center. It is a charming beach town located between Lagos and Albufeira, just a 50 mins drive from Faro Airport.
The main beach, Praia do Carvoeiro, is sheltered by cliffs and offers calm waters, making it ideal for families with young children. There are also other nearby beaches such as Praia do Paraiso and Praia do Vale de Centeanes, which are equally beautiful and family-friendly.
The town center of Carvoeiro is quaint and picturesque, with whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, and a lively atmosphere. Families can stroll around the town square, browse the shops, and dine in family-friendly restaurants serving delicious Portuguese cuisine.
Best places to stay in Algarve in Carvoeiro with kids:
Luxury ($$$): Tivoli Carvoeiro, 5-star family-friendly hotel located in the picturesque town of Carvoeiro, offering views of Vale Covo. The hotel has a wide range of activities for children, family connecting rooms, wonderful breakfast, access to private trails, incredible views, free parking, and multiple pools.
Mid-range ($$): Placid Village, lovely 4-star family-friendly accommodation, located a little far from town center (20 mins walk away), but in a peaceful area. Great base if you have a car. The spacious 3-bedroom apartment has a well-equipped kitchen, great for families of 4 and 5, and 6.
Mid-range ($$): Monte Dourado, 4-star children-friendly hotel located within a few minutes walk to shops, restaurants and beach. Note that it is on the top of a steep hill, so it can be a challenge if you have a buggy or small children. Best suited for families with older kids. It has self-catering rooms with a full kitchen and a washing machine.
Budget ($): Villa Welwitshia, 3-star family-friendly hotel, welcomes Children of all ages.It is in a quiet peaceful area, 5-10 mins short walk down hill to Carvoeiro town center and the beach (everything in Carvoeiro is up or downhill). November is the great time to enjoy Carvoeiro and the surrounding area.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CARVOEIRO3. Praia da Rocha
Praia da Rocha is a great destination for families looking for a vibrant beach holiday. Praia da Rocha is a beautiful and family-friendly beach, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and beach games.
The beachfront promenade of Praia da Rocha is lined with restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors, and shops, making it convenient for families to find everything they need for a day at the beach. There are also facilities such as restrooms, showers, and lifeguard stations for added safety and convenience.
Families can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities in Praia da Rocha, including jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides. There are also boat tours available for exploring the coastline, visiting sea caves, and even dolphin watching excursions.
In the evenings, Praia da Rocha comes alive with a lively atmosphere with many restaurants serving traditional Portuguese dishes and international fare. There are also bars, nightclubs, and live music venues for those seeking entertainment after dark.
Families can visit nearby water parks such as Slide & Splash or Zoomarine. The historic town of Portimão is also worth exploring, with its charming streets, riverside promenade, and cultural attractions.
Best places to stay in Praia da Rocha for families:
Mid-range ($$): NH Marina Portimao Resort, 4-star family-friendly hotel, located near the marina and Praia de Rocha. It has a children’s swimming pool, Wonderful Breakfast, paid airport transfer, and studios/ apartments with kitchenettes.
Mid-range ($$): RR Hotel da Rocha, 4-star children-friendly hotel located near Praia Da Rocha Beach, Easy to get to from the bus or train station. It has an outdoor swimming pool, underground parking, and delicious breakfast.
Luxury ($$$): Algarve Casino Hotel, 5-star family-friendly hotel in Portimão, right on the stunning Praia da Rocha beach, 5 mins walk from Portimão Marina. It features family rooms, free parking, a children’s playground and a games room. The breakfast is delicious with a lot of options.
Mid-range ($$): Jupiter Algarve Hotel, 4-star family-friendly beachfront accommodation located on the Portimão seafront. They have a nice heated pool, excellent breakfast, and amazing views.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN PRAIA DA ROCHA4. Lagos
Lagos is one of the most popular towns to stay in the Algarve with children. It is a historic and charming coastal town, located one hour drive from Faro airport.
Families can enjoy long stretches of golden sands, clear waters, and dramatic rock formations. Popular family-friendly beaches include Meia Praia, which offers calm waters and many beach activities, and Praia da Dona Ana, known for its picturesque cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
You can take boat trips along the coastline to explore sea caves and grottoes, go dolphin watching, or try out water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. There are also opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the surrounding countryside.
Lagos Old Town is packed with cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and charming architecture. Families can wander through the narrow alleyways, visit historic landmarks such as Church of Santo António and Governor’s Castle, and browse the shops and boutiques selling local crafts and souvenirs.
Best places to stay in Algarve in Lagos with family:
Luxury ($$$): Cascade Wellness Resort, 5-star family-friendly hotel slightly on the outskirts of Lagos, great base for families with young kids. Short uber ride into town center. Close to Porto de Mós Beach, Dona Ana Beach and the Lighthouse. It has self-contained apartments with a kitchen, free underground parking, football academy, kids club, and a gaming room. Easy Access to walkways along the cliffs.
Luxury ($$$): Boavista Golf & Spa – Bela Colina Village, popular 5-star, wonderful place to spend your vacation with your family! It is situated in a tranquil area on the outskirts of Lagos, 10 mins ride from the town center. The hotel has car rental services, so you can rent a car to explore the further beaches.
Mid-range ($$): Belmar Spa & Beach Resort, 4-star children-friendly beachfront hotel, in a great location, next to the beach with beautiful cliffs, 10 mins drive from the old town of Lagos. Easy access to the walking trail of 7 hanging valleys. Perfect place to stay for families with teenagers. There are s children and adult outdoor pools.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN LAGOS5. Vilamoura
Vilamoura is a great location for a relaxing luxury family holiday. The town is famous for its luxurious marina, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Families can enjoy leisurely strolls along the marina, admire the yachts, and dine at waterfront restaurants.
Vilamoura also boasts several beautiful beaches, including Praia da Marina and Praia de Vilamoura, which offer golden sands and calm waters suitable for families.
Vilamoura is a haven for sports enthusiasts, with several world-class golf courses, tennis courts, and sports facilities. Families can enjoy a round of golf together, take tennis lessons, or try out water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and parasailing.
You can visit the nearby water parks such as Aquashow Park or Slide & Splash, which offer fun-filled days out with water slides, pools, and entertainment. Families can also enjoy horseback riding, bike tours, and boat trips along the coast.
Best places to stay in Algarve in Vilamoura with family:
Luxury ($$$): Tivoli Marina Vilamoura, 5-star family-friendly beachfront hotel in a prime location in Vilamoura, close to everything, 15 mins walk from the Roman ruins. It has beautiful views of Vilamoura Marina and the Atlantic Ocean. It features a large outdoor pool, a spa, and excellent breakfast.
Luxury ($$$): Crowne Plaza Vilamoura – Algarve, an IHG Hotel, 5-star kid-friendly hotel, in the center of Vilamoura, just a few mins walk from the Marina with many shops and restaurants. The resort has 2 outdoor adult pools, a kids pool and kids club.
Luxury ($$$): Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection, beautiful family friendly hotel, 10 mins walk to the beach and marina. Easy walk to the beach in the evening to watch the sunset. It has good kids friendly facilities, including a kids club and the children’s pool.
Mid-range ($$): Vila Gale Marina, 4-star children-friendly hotel set in a central, quiet location in Vilamoura. Easy walk to the marina, the beach and the Cerro da Vila Roman Ruins. The hotel offers a free shuttle bus to nearby golf courses. There are activities for the kids throughout the day.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN VILAMOURA6. Alvor
Alvor has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for families seeking a peaceful getaway. The village center is charming, with whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes catering to families.
Praia de Alvor is the main beach, offering calm waters and plenty of space for beach activities. There are also other nearby beaches such as Praia dos Três Irmãos and Praia da Rocha, which are equally beautiful and family-friendly.
Additionally, the Ria de Alvor nature reserve, with its marshlands and lagoons, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Best places to stay in Algarve in Alvor with children:
Luxury ($$$): Tivoli Alvor Algarve – All Inclusive Resort, 5-star family-friendly hotel in Alvor, offering free shuttle to the beach. They have a good Kids Club, fantastic entertainment, and great kids entertainment. The main restaurant has lots of options for children. Great place for both small kids and older ones.
Luxury ($$$): Pestana Alvor Praia Premium Beach & Golf Resort, 5-star beautiful modern beautiful for families in Alvor. It has an outdoor saltwater pool, multiple tennis courts and golf courses.
Mid-range ($$): Pestana Alvor Park Hotel Apartamento, 4-star children-friendly hotel, 10 mins walk from the beach. It has an indoor/outdoor pool, a Turkish bath, and free onsite parking.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN ALVORIn conclusion, Albufeira, Carvoeiro, Praia da Rocha, Lagos, Vilamoura, and Alvor are the best places to stay in the Algarve for families with kids. These areas are popular resorts and towns in the region, offering plenty of activities and attractions for the whole family.
You can continue reading about Algarve and other destinations in Portugal in these articles:
- Best places to stay in Algarve without a car
- Best places to stay in Algarve for first time
- Best areas to stay in Lisbon for first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your family trip to the Algarve. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.