Praia da Rocha meaning (Rock beach) is a town set above one of the finest beaches of the Algarve. A vast expanse of sand backed by limestone cliffs and lapped by the crystal clear sea waters of the Atlantic.
Praia da Rocha is one of the Algarves most popular resort towns and offers a diverse selection of entertainment, sights and activities suitable for all ages. Further along the coast the sandstone cliffs hide small coves and quieter beaches, ideal for those wishing to escape the crowds.
The beach is not only long, but also very wide and even at the height of summer there is plenty of room. There is a recent addition of a wooden walkway running the entire length of the beach with a scattering of beach cafés and restaurants.
The avenue, Tomás Cabreira, which runs along the top of the cliffs and boasts spectacular views is full of restaurants, cafes, shops and is particularly lively at night with a variety of bars, and clubs to choose from. Ideal for anyone who wants to be close to a fantastic beach, have plenty of places to wine and dine or party until late. There is also a casino along the avenue that hosts a show every night, with dinner and dancing if you like, apart from the opportunity to have a flutter on the tables!
A leisurely stroll down the promenade will take you to the Fortress of Santa Catarina de Ribamar, which was built in 1691 to guard the mouth of the Rio Arade – the fort’s terrace offers splendid views across the ocean and beach in one direction, and over a modern marina and the estuary in the other.
Just after the fort you reach Portimao marina. The marina is a newer construction, and is home to restaurants and bars, where one can sit and have a meal or a drink with the view of the boats and yachts going by. Also, this is a great place to pick up one of the many boat trips available. These trips include fishing trips, beach barbecues, water taxis to other towns, trips to view the sea life, such as whales, dolphins and sharks and even diving trips.
Praia da Rocha really is fun in the sun over the summer months with every water sport and beach activity you can imagine. An all-year-round resort, but with a seasonal population; in summer it is absolutely packed to the rafters and in winter it is utterly chilled and popular with older generations who want to enjoy walks and wining and dining in warmer climes.