Things to do in Quelfes

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Sig
Photo by Sig
Photo by Daniel Boavida
Photo by Daniel Boavida
Photo by Na'dia Dias
Photo by Na'dia Dias
Photo by Cari Poulin
Photo by Cari Poulin
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Top places to visit

1. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.
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Falesia Beach showing a sunset, general coastal views and a sandy beach

2. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.
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Vilamoura Marina which includes a bay or harbor

3. Faro Island Beach

Faro Island Beach is one of the area’s most picturesque and popular sandy stretches. Cafés, restaurants and watersports operators sit along the strand, which lines 3 miles (5 kilometers) of a narrow sand bar. Enjoy the unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Formosa River on the other.
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Faro Island Beach which includes a sandy beach and general coastal views

4. Olhao Harbour

Life in Olhão centers on the city’s harbor and marina area. Watch as fishing boats pull into dock and unload their catches, many of which will be bound for nearby restaurants. Or, take a boat trip to the fabulous beach-lined barrier islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park.
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Olhao Harbour featuring a bay or harbor

5. Praia dos Olhos de Água

Experience the authenticity of the Algarve’s fishing heritage at Olhos de Água Beach (Praia dos Olhos de Água). This beach is where locals come to top up their tans and cool off in the warm water while fishermen bring in their day’s catch. Olhos de Água Beach sits on the shoreline of its eponymous village. Its name means eyes of water, which is a reference to the springs that form at low tide.
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Olhos D\'Agua Beach which includes rocky coastline, a sandy beach and general coastal views

6. Ria Formosa Natural Park

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a large reserve on the Algarve coast that stretches between Garrão Beach and Manta Rota. With its intricate system of wetlands, canals, marshlands and beaches, the nature reserve shelters a vast diversity of coastal plants and animals. Explore this 37-mile (60-kilometer) stretch of landscape by boat or kayak. Join a guided walking tour and learn about the local fishing traditions that continue amid the resource-rich wetlands.
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Ria Formosa Natural Park showing a sunset and general coastal views

What to do in Quelfes

Popular places to visit

Olhao Harbour which includes a garden

Olhao Harbour

While staying in Olhão you’ll most likely want to visit the nearby islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park, which is accessible by ferry from this harbor.

Olhao Harbour
Olhao Municipal Market showing a sunset

Olhao Municipal Market

Towering over the waterfront, this market is a symbol of Olhão's industriousness and agricultural traditions, which are depicted on tile paintings inside the buildings.

Olhao Municipal Market

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa

Explore the great outdoors at Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a lovely green space in Olhao. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa

Praia da Armona-Ria

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia da Armona-Ria during your trip to Island Armona? While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Praia da Armona-Ria

Moncarapacho Museum and Chapel

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Moncarapacho Museum and Chapel during your travels in Moncarapacho e Fuseta. Wander through the marina and beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.

Moncarapacho Museum and Chapel

Colina Verde Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Moncarapacho e Fuseta at Colina Verde Golf Course. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Colina Verde Golf Course
Photo by Daniel Boavida

Island Armona

Frequently asked questions

Is Quelfes worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the local charm and cultural attractions or sample regional foods and explore in nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Quelfes.
How do I spend a day in Quelfes?
After you've visited popular attractions like Praia da Armona-Ria, spend the rest of your day discovering the shopping and dining scene in Quelfes.
What is the top tourist attraction in Quelfes?
Spend the day at Praia da Armona-Ria and discover why it's ranked as the top tourist attraction near Quelfes.
Is three days enough to stay in Quelfes?
You'll have all the time you need to experience Praia da Armona-Ria, Olhao Municipal Market and other key attractions in the area when you book a three-day escape to Quelfes.
Is Quelfes a walkable neighbourhood?
You'll find Quelfes easy to navigate on foot, with top attractions like Praia da Armona-Ria and Olhao Municipal Market just a short walk away. Popular neighbourhoods like Moncarapacho e Fuseta and Calicos are also located only 3 kilometres and 5 kilometres from the centre of Quelfes, so you can easily extend your adventure — no wheels required.
What are some activities to do in Quelfes with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our ideas for what to do in Quelfes with kids.

What to do in Quelfes for adults?
From incredible food and cultural attractions to thrilling activities and unique experiences, there are loads of great things to do in Quelfes for adults.
Are there free things to do in Quelfes?
You won't have to search high and low for free things to do in Quelfes. Simply ask a local tour guide and they'll point you toward places and activities you can enjoy at zero cost. One of the best free options to explore is Praia da Armona-Ria.