Beach, bars, and buzzy markets, Quarteira has it all
Famous for its long, sandy beaches and palm-lined promenade, Quarteira is a popular coastal resort in the Algarve region of Portugal. Once a small fishing village, it now attracts hordes of beach lovers and families who flock to enjoy the warm waters, clean beaches, and topnotch restaurants along the waterfront. Get your Portuguese adventure off to a great start by booking a Quarteira vacation rental with its own pool. Aside from its beautiful beaches, many come to grab a bargain at the weekly market or play golf on the Algarve's famous championship golf courses. There's something for everyone.
Find thrills and spills at Portugal's largest waterpark
While most of the action happens on the beach, there are several cool attractions within reach of your Quarteira vacation rental. Kids and adults alike will love the water slides, thrill rides, and lazy river at the Aquashow water park, a 7-minute drive north of the beach. As the largest water park in Portugal, it makes a great day out for all the family. Love golf? Then head to the Vale do Lobo Ocean and Royal Golf Courses, a 20-minute drive along the coast. These world-renowned championship courses have a dream location between the sea and the pine forests.
Life's a beach and then you dive in Quarteira, Portugal
Promising wide golden sands and calm, clear turquoise waters, Quarteira Beach is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. There are plenty of watersports activities on offer, such as sailing, snorkeling, and jet skiing. Boat cruises and scuba diving trips depart from nearby Vilamoura harbor. Quarteira's beautiful, palm-lined promenade is at the heart of this bustling beach resort. Dotted with alfresco restaurants and buzzy beach bars, it's the perfect spot for a sunset stroll after a busy day on the beach.
For hot fun in the summertime, visit Quarteira
The Algarve coast sees the best of Portugal's weather. Promising long, hot summers and mild, short winters, it's a year-round vacation destination. The busiest time is between July and September when the temperatures reach a blistering 80-90 degrees. This is also when Quarteira vacation rentals are at a premium. But the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are equally pleasant times to visit, with plenty of sunshine and warm days. Although come fall there's an increased risk of rain, so pack an umbrella.
Stork on you—spot the Algarve's rare black stork
Quarteira is a buzzy beach resort in the central Algarve region of Portugal. The rocky coastline, which extends out from Quarteira towards Vilamoura and Albufeira, offers some beautiful scenic walks where you may spot migrating whales if you time it right. For hardier hikes it's a bit of a trek (excuse the pun) to find some trails. A 2-hour drive north of the resort is the Vale do Guadiana Natural Park which offers an extensive array of walking trails. If you're lucky, you may even spot the rare black stork, as well as the native kestrel, owl, and eagle.
Transportation to and around Quarteira
The nearest airport is in Faro Intl. Airport (FAO), located 9 mi (14.5 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to Portimao (PRM), which is 26.6 mi (42.8 km) away.