Rocha Beach

Praia da Rocha is one of Portugal's most well-known beaches, named after a resort near Portimo, the Algarve's second city. Rocha, a spectacular swath of sand with multiple boardwalks and pathways, is a popular summer vacation spot for both locals and tourists. The built-up area on the Atlantic Ocean in the southern half of the concelho of Portimo, Algarve, southern Portugal is known as Praia da Rocha. The Fort of Santa Catarina (Portimo) is located on the beach's western border. A castle built in the 17th century to protect the Arade River's mouth. Now a famous tourist destination, it can be reached immediately from the beach or from the road above. The seaside boulevard, a popular promenade packed with hotels, cafés, restaurants, and other recreational amenities, leads to the beach.

The nearby Portimo Marina and the Fortaleza de Santa Catarina fortification to the east of the beach, as well as the hilltop viewpoint at Três Castelos at the far western end, make for interesting viewing diversions. You can also see massive sandstone rock outcroppings here (rocha means "rock" in Portuguese). For a light lunch, pop along to the historic Bela Vista Hotel & Spa, built in 1918 and one of the first hotels in the region.

Location: Portimão, Algarve, southern Portugal