Praia da Rocha

A lively resort that caters for families and those who love to party.

Praia da Rocha is a lively resort that caters equally well for families and night owls. Located at the estuary of the River Arade, right next to Portimão, Rocha (as it is known) is famous for the amazing beach, a bustling vibe and great nightlife.

The long, broad golden beach is backed by limestone cliffs. Loungers and parasols are available for hire as are pedaloes and jet skis. Nestled at the base of the cliffs you can find numerous beach restaurants and bars that serve Portuguese and international food from early morning to late at night. A great wooden boardwalk runs the length of the beach. At any hour of the day you can see locals and tourists alike going for their daily walk, run or cycle.

Next to the beach, on the other side of the pier you have the new and colourful marina and its beach. It's the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, admiring the spectacular yachts as you go. You can charter your own boat or join a dolphin spotting excursion. There is a good choice of restaurants and bars here, including the fabulous NoSoloAgua beach club. Enjoy day-to-night food, drinks and fun here, as well as super sunset parties. Not to be missed.

Above the beach, on the main avenue, Praia da Rocha offers lots of shopping - souvenirs, clothes, ceramics, artworks. You can find a great range of world cuisines to sample - Portuguese, English, Chinese, Indian and Japanese cuisine - check out some restaurants. At night the place comes alive with people wandering the avenue, enjoying ice-creams and cocktails and enjoying the street performers.

At night Praia da Rocha offers beach parties, bars with live music, karaoke bars and beach-side lounge bars. There are several clubs that party into the early hours of the next day.

In recent years Praia da Rocha beach has been the stage for huge music festivals such as Afro Nation and Rolling Loud. Now regular fixtures on the summer calendar, the festivals bring huge crowds, great sounds and busy vibe to the resort.