DK Travel : The Algarve : Outdoor

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Ilha da Armona

Popular with independent travellers, the beaches facing inland are served by bars and restaurants. A ferry from Olhão takes 15 minutes.
Ilha da Barreta

Boat departures from Faro’s Porta Nova wharf shuttle visitors to this “deserted island,” where wildlife can be observed. A bar-restaurant, O Estaminé, provides sustenance.
Ilha da Culatra

The beaches here enjoy splendid isolation, and nude sunbathing in the dunes is not uncommon. The ferry takes 45 minutes from Olhão.
Ilha de Faro

This long sandy spit is reached by turning right off the main road just before Faro International Airport and walking across the causeway. It can get crowded in summer with Faro residents.
Ilha de Fuseta

You can walk onto this island at low tide, while the waters of the lagoon provide a popular venue for windsurfers.
Ilha de Tavira

A huge offshore sandbank stretching 11 km (6 miles) west from Tavira, connected to land by a ferry from Quatro Águas. Alternatively, a mini railway can get you there from the resort of Pedras d’el Rei.
Ilha Deserta Cruise

A maritime expedition through the myriad waterways of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, allowing possibly the best way to explore this diverse wetland. Lunch is at O Estaminé, which specializes in seafood.
Isaura

Under full sail, this majestic schooner hugs the coastline from Lagos to Cabo de Sâo Vicente. See Western Region. The ship drops anchor for lunch near a sandy beach, with plenty of time for swimming.
Meia Praia, Lagos

At 4 km (2 miles), this is one of the longest beaches in the Algarve, with plenty of room for sunbathers to share the sand with water-skiers and windsurfers.
Meia Praia, Lagos

A giant curve of sand 4 km (2 miles) in length makes this the longest beach in the Algarve. There’s plenty of room for water-skiing, windsurfing and jet-skiing and those seeking a little peace and quiet. It also makes for a lovely walk, especially in autumn when the summer hoards have begun to disperse.