Things to do in Areias de Sao Joao

Activities, attractions and tours

Areias de Sao Joao
Areias de Sao Joao
Areias de Sao Joao
Areias de Sao Joao
Photo by David Brimhall
Photo by David Brimhall
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Top places to visit

1. Albufeira Old Town Square

Albufeira Old Town Square (Jardim Público de Albufeira) is the beating heart of the atmospheric Albufeira Old Town. This tree-shaded public space offers superb dining, entertainment, people-watching and shopping experiences. Visit Albufeira Old Town Square at any time of the day to witness a true essence of this ancient fishing village.
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Albufeira Old Town Square showing a city and a sunset

2. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.
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Falesia Beach featuring general coastal views, rugged coastline and a sandy beach

3. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.
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Vilamoura Marina which includes a bay or harbor

4. Faro Island Beach

Faro Island Beach is one of the area’s most picturesque and popular sandy stretches. Cafés, restaurants and watersports operators sit along the strand, which lines 3 miles (5 kilometers) of a narrow sand bar. Enjoy the unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Formosa River on the other.
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Faro Island Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views

5. Sao Rafael Beach

São Rafael Beach (Praia de São Rafael) is close enough to Albufeira for a daytrip yet far enough away that it escapes the bustle of the city. São Rafael Beach is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, some of which have been eroded over centuries into curious shapes. The beach sits in a sheltered bay and boasts safe, crystal-clear water and powdery sand that runs gently between your toes.
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Sao Rafael Beach featuring a beach, rocky coastline and general coastal views

What to do in Areias de Sao Joao

Albufeira showing a sandy beach and landscape views as well as an individual male

Albufeira

Frequently asked questions

Is Areias de Sao Joao worth visiting?
Offering a blend of bars and pubs and nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Areias de Sao Joao. While you're here, head to Praia da Falésia Açoteias, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Areias de Sao Joao?
Once you've checked off major attractions like Praia da Falésia Açoteias and Praia da Falésia Alfamar, spend some time exploring Areias de Sao Joao's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Areias de Sao Joao?
Don't leave without visiting Praia da Falésia Açoteias, ranked the top tourist attraction in Areias de Sao Joao.
Is three days enough to stay in Areias de Sao Joao?
You can easily visit popular attractions like Praia da Falésia Açoteias, Praia da Falésia Alfamar and Praia dos Tomates with a three-day break in Areias de Sao Joao. On average, most travelers book five days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and venture to Lagos.
Is Areias de Sao Joao a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Areias de Sao Joao is a great place to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Praia da Falésia Açoteias and Museum of Sacred Art. Then take a stroll around Albufeira e Olhos de Água, located 2 kilometers from the center, and Albufeira Center, which is roughly 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Areias de Sao Joao with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Areias de Sao Joao with kids.

What to do in Areias de Sao Joao for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Areias de Sao Joao. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor activities or just enjoy visiting new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Areias de Sao Joao?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Areias de Sao Joao is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can experience without getting your cash out. Praia da Falésia Açoteias is one place that doesn't have an entrance fee.