East vs West Algarve: Which Part to Choose

The Algarve stretches about 150km along Portugal’s south coast, and its two halves are very different. The west has the famous golden cliffs and coves. The east has long sandy islands, lagoons and traditional towns. Here’s how to decide which part of the Algarve suits you.

Quick answer: the western Algarve (Lagos, Sagres, Carvoeiro, Benagil) has dramatic cliffs, coves, surf and boat trips. The eastern Algarve (Faro, Olhão, Tavira) has calmer, warmer water, long island beaches, the Ria Formosa lagoon and more authentic towns. The central Algarve (Albufeira, Vilamoura) has the big resorts and golf.

The western Algarve

• Scenery: golden cliffs, sea stacks and grottos, plus the wild Atlantic coast at Sagres and the Costa Vicentina.
• Activities: Benagil boat trips, kayaking, surfing and clifftop hikes. See the Seven Hanging Valleys trail.
• Bases: Lagos, Sagres, Carvoeiro, Ferragudo.
• Sea: cooler and sometimes rougher, especially on the west-facing coast.

The central Algarve

• Resorts: big hotels, all-inclusives, golf and nightlife.
• Bases: Albufeira and Vilamoura.

The eastern Algarve

• Scenery: the Ria Formosa lagoon, salt pans, flamingos and sandy barrier islands.
• Beaches: long and wide, often reached by ferry, with calmer, warmer water.
• Towns: Tavira, Olhão and Faro.
• Day trips: Seville, the Guadiana valley and Mértola. See Mértola.

Which is best for...

• Families with young kids: the east or central Algarve, for calm water.
• Couples who love scenery: the west.
• Nightlife: Albufeira or Lagos.
• Peace and authenticity: the east.
• Surfing: the far west.

More: where to stay in the Algarve, the best Algarve beaches and Lagos vs Tavira.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.