Praia Grande (Ferragudo)

• In the town ofFerragudoA postcard-perfect fishing village sitting across the river from Portimão. Known for its tumbledown hillside houses, cobbled streets, and preserved traditional charm.

Praia Grande is Ferragudo's main beach, a long run of sand just inside the mouth of the Arade, sheltered by the river's breakwater. The breakwater takes the force out of the sea, leaving water calm enough that this has become one of the coast's natural spots for paddleboarding and easy swimming. At the northern end the Castelo de São João do Arade, a fort turned private residence, stands directly over the sand, facing its counterpart across the river at Praia da Rocha. Access is level from the road behind. It suits families with small children, paddleboarders, and anyone who prefers flat water to surf.