Find your own secluded spot

The beach at Praia Dos Salgados is as idyllic as you could ever want it to be. Wide, flat, golden and easy to get to, it goes on for miles and is neatly broken up by sand dunes, keeping it separate from the town. There’s a secluded vibe on this beach, making it great for families – but in reality, amenities are never far away, with restaurants and shops all within walking distance. And you’ll find lots of boardwalks in place, making it easier for families with young children to access the beach.

Or hit the party strip

It’s no secret that Albufeira is the place to be if you’re looking for more of a party atmosphere, with lively restaurants and a vibrant evening out, that. Close enough to not feel like a trek, yet still far away enough to leave Praia Dos Salgados feeling nice and quiet, this happening city is full of outdoor restaurants, bars, a bustling main square and a party strip that’s chock-full of nightclubs. If that’s where you want to head, then simply follow the neon signs. Otherwise, pull up a chair and watch the people go by, while you enjoy a glass of wine at a friendly eatery.

Head to the art festival

If you love the beach but don’t want to be completely passive while on your Praia Dos Salgados holidays, why not head there around March, when the whole town enjoys its international sand art festival?

Artists from around the globe flock to the coast to build some of the most detailed creations ever seen made from sand, and on a huge scale too. Later visitors will still be in luck, as the creations often remain intact until October, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

Treasure-hunt for trinkets

Less than a 10-minute drive from Praia Dos Salgados you’ll find the charming town of Armacao De Pera, which is filled with boutiques specialising in local handicrafts and souvenirs. You’ll definitely want to stock up on some traditional Portuguese ceramics, which are hand-painted and spectacularly colourful, not to mention embroidered linens and beautiful one-off pieces of jewellery.

There’s also a shopping centre a short drive away in Guia, for some well-loved high street brands – but it’s the native products that are often the biggest draw for shoppers.

A great place for golf

Golfing in the Algarve is exceptionally popular, with a host of luxury courses being available to play on. However, the Salgados Golf Course has something that none of the others do – it’s a ‘links’ site, meaning that it provides extra challenges for golfers who are keen to up their game, with the natural landscape being included in the fairways. Dunes and parkland offer an extra level of difficulty and there are plenty of water features to navigate as well, so you’ll want to take a few spare balls around with you.

A beach to die for is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to explaining why Praia Dos Salgados is so popular. Catering for everyone, regardless of age or interests, it’s a town that gives a snapshot of the more traditional side of Portugal, while also allowing easy access to the bright lights of the more modern Albufeira. Parties and peace in equal measure make this a destination that just keeps on giving.