Things to do in Escanxinhas

Activities, attractions and tours

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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 showing rocky coastline, a sandy beach and general coastal views

6. Oura Beach

Be energetic or simply relax at Oura Beach (Praia da Oura). With abundant water sports, a picturesque Algarve backdrop and a promenade lined with bars and restaurants, this is one of the liveliest beaches of Albufeira. Oura Beach is home to several large resort hotels, thus making it a busy coastal destination year round.
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Oura Beach which includes a sandy beach, general coastal views and swimming

7. Olhao Harbour

Life in Olhão centers on the city’s harbor and marina area. Watch as fishing boats pull into dock and unload their catches, many of which will be bound for nearby restaurants. Or, take a boat trip to the fabulous beach-lined barrier islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park.
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Olhao Harbour featuring a bay or harbor

What to do in Escanxinhas

Popular places to visit

Vilamoura Marina showing a bay or harbor

Vilamoura Marina

Take a boat trip to see dolphins and go parasailing with a tour operator near this marina, which is bordered by the town’s main strip of restaurants and nightclubs.

Vilamoura Marina
Marina Beach showing a beach, a coastal town and general coastal views

Vilamoura Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Vilamoura Beach during your travels in Vilamoura? Check out the spas and lively bars in this family-friendly area.

Vilamoura Beach
Quinta do Lago Golf

Quinta do Lago Golf

Enjoy a round of golf in Almancil at Quinta do Lago Golf. Stroll along the marina or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Quinta do Lago Golf
Garrao Beach

Garrao Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Garrao Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Vale do Garrão. While in this relaxing area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Garrao Beach

Aqua Show Park

Enjoy the thrill rides with your kiddos at Aqua Show Park as part of your trip to Quarteira. Wander the beautiful beaches and marina in this relaxing area.

Aqua Show Park

Quinta do Lago Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Quinta do Lago Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Quinta do Lago. Attend a sporting event in this relaxing area, or seek out the golf courses.

Quinta do Lago Beach

Vila Sol Golf

Enjoy a round of golf in Quarteira at Vila Sol Golf. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Vila Sol Golf

Loule Castle

Loule Castle is just one of the places to see in São Sebastião, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make time for the spas and golf courses in this relaxing area.

Loule Castle

Loule Town Market

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Loule Town Market during your trip to São Clemente. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Loule Town Market

Frequently asked questions

Is Escanxinhas worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample regional foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Escanxinhas.
How do I spend a day in Escanxinhas?
Kick your day off with a visit to Praia de Forte Novo and Family Golf Park. Then, tour different areas of Escanxinhas for tasty eats and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Escanxinhas?
Don't leave without visiting Praia de Forte Novo, ranked the top tourist attraction in Escanxinhas.
Is three days enough to stay in Escanxinhas?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out the leading city attractions, including Praia de Forte Novo, Paintarena Portugal and Algarve Stadium. The average stay in Escanxinhas is four days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Albufeira isn't far away.
Is Escanxinhas a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to see and do in Escanxinhas. Several sights, including Praia de Forte Novo and THE CAMPUS, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Escanxinhas's best neighborhoods, Vale do Garrão is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Cerro do Mocho is 3 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Escanxinhas with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Escanxinhas with kids.

What to do in Escanxinhas for adults?
From incredible food and cultural highlights to outdoor activities and unique experiences, there's no shortage of fascinating things to do in Escanxinhas for adults.
Are there free things to do in Escanxinhas?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Escanxinhas. If you're in need of ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Praia de Forte Novo is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.