Family holidays in the Algarve offer an irresistible mix of sun-soaked beaches, wild nature and rich culture. From golden sands and hidden coves to charming towns and scenic trails, there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy. Take a boat tour along the dramatic coastline, explore caves and lagoons, or relax together at seafront cafés, creating unforgettable moments in one of Portugal’s most welcoming holiday regions.
The Algarve is perfect for family holidays thanks to around 300 days of sunshine and a mild, pleasant climate throughout the year. Families can enjoy the best part of the Algarve with children. Its calm, sheltered beaches, charming fishing villages and relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere make it easy to unwind and explore together. With short, convenient flights from the UK and across Europe, getting there is simple, even with young children. It is especially popular during the peak summer months, when families flock to enjoy long beach days, outdoor adventures and memorable holiday experiences in this welcoming corner of Portugal.
The Algarve has no shortage of family-friendly beaches for fun in the sun. Framed by cliffs, Praia de Odeceixe is ideal for families, with calm lagoon waters at low tide for safe swimming and surf-friendly waves on the ocean side. Praia da Marinha, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, boasts dramatic limestone cliffs, golden sands and hidden coves, though it can become busy in the high season. Take a ferry to the Praia da Terra Estreita beach on Ilha de Tavira, whose shallow Blue Flag waters and soft sand are perfect for younger children. With striking red-and-white cliffs, Praia da Falésia is easy to access via a wooden staircase to its vast shoreline.
Family fun in the Algarve is centred on the sea and stunning natural landscapes. A boat tour to nearby islands or the iconic Benagil Cave — accessible only by sea — offers unforgettable views. Dolphin-watching excursions add an extra thrill, while a boat trip at the Ria Formosa National Park lagoon reveals an extraordinary 60km maze of canals, islands, marshes and sandbanks to explore together. On land, families can hike the family-friendly Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, with its limestone cliffs and rocky arches, or enjoy a gentle horse ride or scenic bike ride through the hills of the Serra de Monchique.
Lagos is one of the best towns for families in the Algarve, combining history and fun with its medieval fortifications, beautiful beaches, lively marina and bustling local markets, plus a vibrant nightlife for older teens and parents. Faro, the regional capital since 1756, charms families with its atmospheric old town that beckons strolling, inviting cafés and the 13th-century cathedral offering panoramic views from its tower. Further east, Tavira enchants with its Moorish influence, river views and colourful tiled houses. One of Portugal’s most beautiful towns, it also features two fascinating sites: the Anchor Cemetery that honours sailors and the intriguing Camara Obscura in Tavira Tower.
Portugal offers unforgettable family experiences, from surf lessons on the West Coast at world-renowned surf spots to gentler water sports such as paddleboarding and snorkelling in calm, crystal-clear waters. A highlight for children is Sand City in Lagoa, the world’s largest sand sculpture park, featuring around 120 extraordinary creations that you can explore on a sand buggy.
Local food in the Algarve is a buffet of comforting, family-friendly dishes such as cataplana (pork & clam stew), grilled sardines and frango piri-piri — tender grilled chicken glazed with a spicy sauce that even adventurous children love. Ice cream parlours, waterfront cafés and lively markets offer plenty of local flavours for in-between meals and beachside treats. For memorable dining, try 2 Passos in Almancil for exceptional fish and seafood by the sea on the Ancão Beach, or head to Ria Formosa Restaurant in Faro for breathtaking views and a creative menu inspired by local classics.
From private swimming pools to easy access to the beach, Villanovo has a wealth of luxury villas to enhance your Algarve family holidays.
Villa Rikana in Albufeira: A 6-bedroom villa with direct access to the beach, a private swimming pool, jacuzzi, and expansive barbecue terrace, conveniently located within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Villa Colombe in Ferragudo: close to the beach, this gorgeous 3-bedroom villa boasts amazing ocean views, a private swimming pool, and a large furnished terrace that is ideal for sunset-watching and barbecues.
Casa Luum in Quinta do Lago: A gorgeous contemporary 4-bedroom house in the Algarve, nestled in nature among hundreds of olive, cork, and almond trees, with a semi-enclosed swimming pool and lush garden.
Villa Marisol in Salema: A luxury clifftop retreat, this 5-bedroom stunner is perfect for a multigenerational family, thanks to its 6,000 m² of landscaped grounds, panoramic ocean views, infinity pool, jacuzzi, and sauna.
Villanovo offers a wide range of luxury villas with a private heated pool, direct beach access, sea view, house staff, or on a golf course, private chefs. Families will appreciate our large homes that are ideal for group gatherings.
Our villas are set in prime locations in the Algarve, including Albufeira, Lagos, Quinta do Lago, Sagres, Salema, and Vale do Lobo.
Thanks to Villanovo's dedicated concierge service, every stay becomes an exclusive experience. Enjoy plenty of services that are organised to your wishes, like exclusive boat tours, childcare and family-friendly activities like snorkelling and paddleboarding. Our local experts are happy to provide recommendations for restaurants, activities, and things to do during your Algarve family holiday.
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