Luxury Escapes: Unmissable Things to Do in Vilamoura

Get ready to uncover the ultimate guide to Vilamoura’s vibrant scene. From heart-pounding adventures to dreamy date night spots, we’ve rounded up the most exciting things to do in Vilamoura. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, luxury or tranquil escapes, Vilamoura has it all!

I had the joy of visiting Vilamoura for my 40th birthday in 2023, so in this blog, I’ll share some of my favourite highlights, you’ll just have to excuse the drunken dressed-up photos. LOL

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What’s So Great about Vilamoura?

From London, you can find some very reasonable flights to Faro airport (under £120 in June if you book early). Plus, it’s just a 30-minute transfer, so you can go from sipping a cocktail at the airport to chilling out poolside in under 4 hours! With it’s beautiful marina, stunning coastline and endless bars and restaurants all within walking distance, you really are spoilt for choice! You also have the well-known resort of Albufeira and charming Portuguese town of Loulé within a 30-minute drive for day trips around the Algarve.

Vilamoura Marina

Explore the bustling Vilamoura marina filled with luxury yachts and chic shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and soak in the vibrant atmosphere this luxurious place has to offer. Indulge in the culinary delights by dining at its gourmet restaurants, on the beautiful waterfront. From fresh seafood to traditional Portuguese cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Take a Breathtaking Boat Trip

Explore the stunning coastline of the Algarve on a boat trip from Vilamoura Marina.

Benagil Cave Boat Tour

Embark on a bespoke boat tour from Vilamoura to explore the renowned Benagil Caves. Marvel at the breathtaking rock formations, pristine beaches, and captivating sights along the way, with the added thrill of potentially encountering dolphins during your voyage. Benagil Cave Boat Tour from £35pp

Guided Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ

Looking for the ultimate thing to do in Vilamoura? Embark on a thrilling 7-hour sailing excursion aboard a catamaran, journeying along the picturesque coastline from Vilamoura Marina to the iconic Benagil Cave. Delight in the breathtaking rock formations and coastal scenery as you sail, and indulge in a delicious barbecue feast on a secluded beach, making for an unforgettable day of adventure and relaxation. Vilamoura Cruise from £52pp

Dive into Adventure: Vilamoura Watersports Await

Embark on an adventure and try your hand at various watersports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. Vilamoura offers a range of watersports activities for thrill-seekers of all levels.

Parasailing: Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime aboard a state-of-the-art Cherokee boat! Experience the ultimate parasailing adventure as you soar through the sky, suspended from your parachute, while cruising along the breathtaking Algarve coastline from Vilamoura Marina. It’s an unforgettable journey that’ll leave you with memories to last a lifetime! Vilamoura parasailing from £38pp

Jet Skis: Get ready to kick your adrenaline into high gear as you shoot across the water in a shuttle boat! Once you arrive at the jet ski circuit, the real excitement begins as you transfer to your very own jet ski. Get ready to feel the rush of the wind in your hair and the spray of the waves as you embark on an exhilarating 30-minute adventure that you won’t soon forget. Vilamoura Jet ski rental from £64pp

Find Jet ski rental in Albufeira and surf lessons at Falesia Beach, both close to Vilamoura Marina.

Vilamoura Beaches

Places to Eat in Vilamoura

I can only recommend the restaurants in Vilamoura that I personally dined in, both of which were recommended to me and I am delighted to pass on.

BJ’s Oceanside, Praia do Almargem

First up is BJ’s Oceanside. Don’t be fooled by the rustic charm of this beachfront restaurant. The fish and seafood here are beyond amazing… The prawns are bigger than my hands, and there’s a huge selection of freshly caught fish cooked to your liking.

If you’re squeamish about bones, they’ll even bring the whole fish to the table and debone it for you. There is live entertainment available on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Be sure to check their closing times, as this restaurant closes at 8 pm out of the main season. Nonetheless, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset while enjoying the freshest fish you’ll ever eat. Visit the BJ Oceanside website for more information. Please note that this restaurant is located on Praia do Almargem, on the other side of Quarteira, about a 15-minute cab ride from Vilamoura Marina. The beach is stunning, so why not dress in a loose summer dress, arrive early to catch the sunset, and make the most of the incredible views?

My Thai

Nestled right in the heart of the vibrant Vilamoura Marina strip, ‘My Thai‘ served up an absolute flavour fiesta! Just take a peek at all the food in the photo below! Satay chicken, spring rolls, and Thai curry to name a few! Each dish was a taste sensation, leaving us craving more with every bite. Plus, with its breezy open-plan setup, we got to soak up the sunset vibes while sipping on our cocktails. Trust me, I’m already planning my next visit! 🍹

Vilamoura Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vilamoura by visiting its bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Dance the night away at lively nightclubs or enjoy live music performances at several bars in the marina.

Dive into the lively scene with a visit to Salmora Live Kitchen and Bar, where we got a taste of award-winning cocktails like the legendary Espresso Martini. Trust me, it’s worth the hype! Plus, the food looked absolutely divine, even though our bellies were already full from dinner.

Next up, swing by the Atlantic Piano Bar for some live music that’ll have you dancing the night away. Don’t let the name fool you—this place is all about grooving to old classics and the latest hits in a totally open-plan setting with stunning marina views. Just a heads up, though: those wooden plank floors aren’t exactly stiletto-friendly!

And if you’re up for more fun, head directly opposite to the lively Irish pub, where the music and the atmosphere are always electric. With options aplenty, from chic bars to cosy pubs, Vilamoura’s nightlife scene has something for everyone! 🍸🎶

Golf in Vilamoura

Vilamoura is renowned for its world-class golf courses. Tee off at one of the prestigious golf clubs, such as Vilamoura Old Course or Victoria Golf Course, and enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning scenery.

Embark on a Historical Adventure in Vilamoura

Step back in time and explore the rich history of Vilamoura with a visit to its intriguing landmarks. From ancient Roman ruins to vibrant markets, there’s plenty to uncover in this charming coastal town.

Head over to Quarteira Market, just a hop away, where the hustle and bustle of vendors and the aroma of fresh goodies await! Dive into the vibrant scene, snagging some local crafts and tasty treats along the way.

Next stop: Cerro da Vila! Step back in time amidst the ancient Roman ruins, tucked near Vilamoura Marina. From crumbling villas to majestic mosaics, soak in the stories of yesteryear and uncover the secrets of this historical hotspot!

Vilamoura & Quarteira Cycle Tour

Experience the essence of Vilamoura and Quarteira on a captivating 3-hour guided bike tour. Begin your journey at Vilamoura Marina and delve into the history of Quarteira while visiting its Old Village. Explore the vibrant markets, encounter the rich Portuguese flora and fauna, and even discover the fascinating turtle area. Vilamoura Cycle Tour from £33pp

Visit the Vibrant Resort of Albufeira

Venture to nearby Albufeira from Vilamoura for a day of excitement and exploration! Just a short 25-minute drive away, Albufeira beckons with its vibrant resort ambiance and breathtaking beaches that line the scenic Algarve coastline.

Alternatively, hop on a convenient bus (see vilamoura bus timetable), which runs multiple times daily, taking approximately 45 minutes.

Visit Loulé

Experience the authentic Portuguese charm of Loulé, situated just 15km away from Vilamoura, easily accessible by a 20-minute cab ride. Delight in the town’s picturesque centre and explore its magnificent market hall, where vibrant stalls offer a glimpse into local life. Wander through the narrow streets, uncovering historic churches and stumbling upon the ruins of a 13th-century castle, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of this charming city.

Embark on a captivating guided tour of Quinta da Tôr, an esteemed winery nestled in the quaint village of Loulé, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into the time-honoured traditions of local winemaking. Indulge your senses as you sample four exquisite local wines paired with freshly baked bread and artisanal homemade olive oil, immersing yourself in the flavours of the Algarve region. Loule Wine Tasting from £15pp.

Vilamoura FAQ

If you have any questions about Vilamoura, please drop a comment below and I’ll answer what I know 🙂

How do I get from Faro Airport to Vilamoura?

Vilamoura is approximately 30 km from the nearest airport, Faro International, which takes roughly 35 minutes by taxi or around 45 minutes by bus. If opting for a taxi, I recommend booking an Uber as it’s cheaper than the airport taxi at around €35. Alternatively, you can take line no. 9, See Vilamoura bus route, which departs approximately every hour and costs from €5.

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