Sailing
Spain and Portugal are countries with large maritime histories and for more and more people the Algarve is one of their favourite holiday destinations.
The ideal climate, the excellent sailing conditions and the crystal clear water makes sailing along the coast a sailors dream come true. Impressive rock formations alternate with sandy beaches and the dolphins playing with the bow of the yacht can take you by surprise.
At the end of the day you can moor in one of the many modern marinas, a picturesque fisherman village or anchor in one of the beautiful bays. When the evening falls and the lights ashore go on, the ambiance changes. Not only can you enjoy sun, sea and beach but also a local meal and plenty of wine!
If you have sufficient sailing experience including coastal navigation it is possible to rent bareboat. Alternatively, why not take a skippered charter and let someone else do the work.There are sailing schools open in the summer months.
Surfing
The Algarve coastal waters provide some acceptable surfing accompanied by the warm climate and reasonable temperature of the sea. It provides a good location for this sport in Europe. Depending upon the time of the year and the current the most attractive and challenging area is around Sagres. However, for the less experienced it is recommended that surfers use the many excellent beaches that are under Life Guard supervision.
Scuba Diving
The geographical historical background of the Algarve coast and its importance as a navigational corner point in Europe for many centuries makes it one of the best locations in Europe for scuba diving. The coastline provides many varieties of water in which to dive that it would be hard to complain.
For comfortable diving throughout the year the water temperature along the coastline tends to vary between 16 to 22 degrees. Besides the abundance of different fish species there are so several old wrecks and reefs to explore. A popular dive is at night especially in the many fascinating caves.
Experienced instructors are to be found at all licensed Diving Schools and modern equipment is for hire. These Schools are usually staffed by several nationalities so communication should not be difficult. Dives are made under the strict regulations as associated with the necessary safety aspect of the sport.
Water Skiing
Due to the attractive climate water-skiing is a popular sport especially in the south of Portugal. The impressive size of the Atlantic Ocean would at first question the number of times that the sea conditions would be favourable for this sport. Surprisingly, throughout the year and even in the winter months, there are many days of each month when the conditions are very attractive. Naturally in the summer months the conditions are even better and especially early and late in the day when it can present a mirror surface.
The Beach Sport Centres that can be found on the more popular beaches often have facilities for hire. If you are using your own boat it is important to note that the Portuguese authorities have the necessary regulations and rules relating to security and awareness.