Paddling Paradise

Welcome! I am a sea kayaker who has been discovering amazing places in the Algarve to kayak and SUP. There is info here for beginners who may want to take a guided tourist trip, inflatable owners, boat renters, and more advanced sea paddlers who want a challenge.

The Algarve has world class paddling in an accessible location with some of the sunniest days in Europe and gorgeous temperatures.

Kayaks going under sea arch

Where to Paddle

The South Coast of Portugal has a western side with photogenic cliffs and caves, listed from West to East:

  • Sagres big cliffs and lighthouses ☆☆☆ (A)
  • Benagil Cave, the Algarve’s most famous beauty spot, a single cave with a giant skylight ☆☆☆☆☆ (D)

  • Portimão to Albufeira coast sandstone rocks and varied beaches ☆☆☆ (E)

  • The Swallow’s Nest, Albufeira, not quite a cave, but a hidden beach inside a cliff ☆☆☆☆ (F)

The Eastern side (Faro, Olhão and as far as the border with Spain) is quite different. It has long sandy beaches, warm inland flatwater lagoons and the islands of the Ria Formosa. ☆☆☆☆ (G)

There is also Portugal’s West Coast ☆☆ to consider (H) . It is wild and remote with big Atlantic swell and surf.

If the waves are too big or you fancy a change and something gentle, consider some Inland Paddles ☆☆ (J) or Alvor Lagoon.☆☆☆ (K)