The Algarve boasts beautiful beaches, from surf-friendly waves in the west to calm, family-friendly waters in the east. The Ria Formosa islands, accessible by boat, are perfect for summer visits. Nearby beaches without boat access include Faro and Fuzeta. The A22 is a toll road—pay at the Post Office after your trip.

Places to Eat

🥐 Marieta’s Café

N125 | Moncarapacho
Local bakery and pastry shop great for breakfast. Portuguese pastries and cakes are made on site. Enjoy the Algarve donuts, freshly squeezed orange juice, and pastel de nata.

🍩 Bolinhas do Carlos

Laranjeiro | Moncarapacho
From May to September in the evening you can buy the famous Portuguese donuts (bolos de berlim) directly from the factory oven! Only a short walk from Casa Veronica.

🔥 Frango Da Ria

N125 | Moncarapacho
A traditional churrasqueira. It is delicious, cheap and rated by some as the best in the Algarve! Try the frango (chicken) and the “Tres Delicias do Algarve” (carob, fig and almond cake). Short drive from Casa Veronica.

https://frangodaria.eatbu.com

🍽️ Chá Chá Chá

Tv. do Gaibeú 19  | Olhao | booking required
Owned by Kevin Gould, former Guardian food writer. Small restaurant in the back streets of Olhao, one of the best in the area. Gluten free options for desserts. Locally sourced produce, fresh, healthy and delicious. Cash only. 

http://chachacha.pt/

seafood

Café dos Mestres

Largo 1° de Maio | Fuseta
An outdoor dining experience that everyone should try when visiting Fuseta. Attentive service, fresh fish and meat grilled on open fire. Not too expensive. Cash only.

https://foursquare.com/v/caf%C3%A9-dos-mestres/4e52b0df22710da1b3e1c07b

🐟 Os Fialhos

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa | EM1339
Simple but very popular fish and seafood restaurant on the banks of the Ria Formosa between Fuzeta and Luz de Tavira.

https://marisqueiraosfialhos.eatbu.com

prawns

🌿 Estaminé Restauranté

Ilha Deserta
Self-sustainable restaurant on Ilha Deserta. Panoramic sea views. Unwind with the refreshing ocean breeze as you savor delicious seafood and fresh local produce. Reserve your table and boat in advance.

https://www.ilhadeserta.com/en/estamine

🥘  Restaurante Novo Oceano

R. Associacao 11de Marco 34 | Olhao
Great local restaurant for the family. The meal deals are excellent value, a main, a drink and dessert. Playground at the back for kids!

https://pratododia.minha-ementa.com/restaurante-novo-oceano

🦪 Restaurante Maresia

 Av. 25 de Abril n2 | Fuzeta
Steak and seafood restaurant. The steak is divine, the meat is prepared and matured, giving a special refinement to the dish. Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining. 

https://linktr.ee/maresiarestaurant

Checkin Faro

R. do Castelo 7 | Faro
This Michelin star restaurant occupies a former cereal and wine storehouse in Faro’s historic centre. The chef Leonel Pereira, a native of the Algarve, cooks using seasonal ingredients with a strong focus on creativity and flavour. He often visits tables and talks to guests, a lovely friendly touch.

https://checkinfaro.pt

👨‍🍳 Noelia

Rua da Fortaleza | Cabanas,
Michelin listed restaurant popular with local chefs. Locally caught fish and seafood on a fixed menu, although there are always a variety of choices that focus on the day’s freshest ingredients.

https://guide.michelin.com/gb/en/portugal-continental/cabanas_2417219/restaurant/noelia

Local Attractions

Tavira

Tavira is a charming coastal town just 20 minutes from Casa Veronica. Take a short boat ride (only a few euros) to explore the nearby Ria Formosa islands. Enjoy beachside restaurants, bars (check seasonal openings), and a refreshing swim in the Atlantic. Don’t miss Tavira’s monthly flea market for great bargains! The town also has a large Continente supermarket for all your essentials.

Praia de Faro

Beautiful sandy beach close to the airport. Parking during the off season is free. Enjoy the beach, swim in the ocean and enjoy one of the restaurants along the beach front. Don’t forget to try the white sangria.

Praia de Fuzeta 

small beach nearest the house with direct access 

Praia do Barril

Offers golden sands, clear waters, and a unique Anchor Cemetery. Reach it by footbridge or mini-train and enjoy seaside cafés in a stunning Algarve setting.

Praia do Camilo is a stunning, secluded beach in Lagos. Known for its picturesque cliffs, rock formations, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Praia de Cabana

Praia de Cabanas is a peaceful beach with soft sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming.

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Ria Formosa Natural Park covers 18,000 hectares with diverse habitats and rich wildlife. A birdwatcher’s paradise, it’s key for migratory species. Explore from Tavira, Olhão, Fuseta, or Faro by boat, kayak, bike, or foot. Some islands have seasonal beach bars—check ahead. Plan at formosamar.com.

Moncarapacho

Moncarapacho, a charming Algarve village since 1358, is rich in tradition and orchards. Enjoy its cobbled streets, historic church, and cafés like Colibri. Visit the lively market on the first Sunday monthly.

Olhão

Olhão, a major Algarve fishing port, blends history and local culture. Explore its seafood market, enjoy waterfront views, and visit for the Summer Seafood Festival. Hidden gems await in the old town’s streets.