The Best Hotels in Albufeira for Every Traveller

Fishermans Beach is one of the prettiest spots for sunbathing in Albufeira, on the Algarve
Fisherman's Beach is one of the prettiest spots for sunbathing in Albufeira, on the Algarve | © travelstock44 / Alamy Stock Photo
Mary Luissana

Famed for its beaches and nightlife, Albufeira, in the Algarve in southern Portugal, is a favourite among English speakers. And it isn’t short on accommodation – with apartments right by Fisherman’s Beach, a cosy bolthole just outside the city or a family-friendly enclave perfect for the whole gang to choose from. Book your stay now on Culture Trip.

1. PortoBay Falésia

Hotel, Resort

PortoBay Falésia
Courtesy of PortoBay Falésia / Expedia

The ideal fly-and-flop destination, this 301-room hotel offers all that you might require without moving far from it. The hotel has private access to a wonderful beach, framed by red rocks – perfect photo fodder when the sun sets. There are three swimming pools, a good spa and several restaurants – try the squid rings with aioli overlooking the sea for a perfect lunch.

2. Hotel Cerro da Marina

Resort

Hotel Cerro da Marina
Courtesy of Hotel Cerro da Marina / Expedia

The rooms at the Hotel Cerro da Marina come in muted, neutral colours with views over the swimming pool and leafy gardens that surround the property. A walk away from the nearest beach, the hotel has plenty of facilities to keep you busy; besides the swimming pool, there’s a hot tub, spa and wellness centre and a snooker table.

3. Velamar Boutique Hotel

Budget Hotel

Velamar Boutique Hotel
Courtesy of Velamar Boutique Hotel / Expedia

Velamar, 8km (5mi) outside Albufeira, by pretty Olhos d’Agua, allows you to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of Albufeira in the evening with a more tranquil, flop-by-the-pool experience in the day. Facilities include a dinky poolside bar, a jazzy lounge decked in blue, and a spa embracing Japanese philosophies. Sun seekers can reach the nearest beaches in five minutes by car.

5. 3HB Golden Beach

Apartment

3HB Golden Beach
Courtesy of 3HB Golden Beach / Hotels.com

There are 54 apartments here ranging from studios to three-bedroom lodgings; all come with a kitchen and either full or side sea views. There is also a standalone three-bedroom, two-bathroom villa with access to the resort facilities. The apartments radiate from a central swimming pool, snack bar and sunbathing area. There is a playground for children tucked away in a quiet corner, a fitness centre for adults and an outdoor hot tub.

6. Vila São Vicente

Hotel

Vila São Vicente
Courtesy of Vila São Vicente/Hotels.com

Enjoy a relaxed environment at Vila São Vicente, an adults-only hotel just steps from Praia do Peneco, one of Albufeira’s main beaches near the historic old town. The hotel is just a short walk from many popular bars and restaurants, but guests wishing to stay close may enjoy the on-site terrace bar, outdoor pools and sunbathing deck.

7. Califórnia Beach Hotel

Hotel

Califórnia Beach Hotel
Courtesy of Califórnia Beach Hotel/Hotels.com

Known as Algarve’s destination for stag and hen parties, Albufeira is the place to go if you want to be surrounded by a dynamic nightlife scene, and Califórnia Beach Hotel is close to all the action. It’s just steps from Piccadilly Cocktail Bar – considered one of the best bars in Algarve – and down the street from the area’s liveliest district. After the excitement in town, guests can relax by the pool-side bar at the hotel.

8. Hotel Brisa Sol

Suite Hotel, Hotel

Hotel Apartamento Brisa Sol
Courtesy of Hotel Apartamento Brisa Sol / Expedia

Hotel Brisa Sol is a large, family-friendly apartment hotel near the centre of Albufeira. Contemporary and spacious, it offers two outdoor pools – one for children – an indoor pool, a playground, an arcade room and tennis courts. Located around a 10-minute walk from the beach and main attractions, it’s close enough to all the sights yet far enough for a relaxing stay. Each room is also equipped with a kitchen area, a bonus for anyone on a budget.

9. Falésia Hotel

Spa Hotel, Hotel

Falésia Hotel
Courtesy of Falésia Hotel/Hotels.com

Falésia Hotel is another adults-only accommodation in Albufeira – rooms come with private balconies offering views of the pool, the nearby golf course or a serene garden. Located by Falésia Beach, it’s a lovely location for days in the sand and sun. Alternatively, the hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool, and a tennis court surrounded by a lush backdrop. You can also enjoy the spa hydrotherapy in addition to other treatments.

10. Pine Cliffs Ocean Suite, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Resort, Spa Hotel, Golf Hotel

Pine Cliffs Ocean Suite, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
Courtesy of Pine Cliffs Ocean Suite, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa/Hotels.com

This is the place to hone your golf swing and relax in luxury. This large five-star resort has 148 guest rooms, an 18-hole golf course and a beach nearby. The spacious rooms come with a private patio and terrace. Although the excitement of town and the sands are temptingly close, guests may not want to leave this beautiful space – the eight restaurants, two poolside bars, eight pools, five tennis courts and luxurious spa services are enough reason to stay.

11. EPIC SANA Algarve

Resort, Spa Hotel

EPIC SANA Algarve
Courtesy of EPIC SANA Algarve/Hotels.com

EPIC SANA is a five-star accommodation by Falésia Beach surrounded by pines and offering a variety of amenities. You may enjoy the health club, one of the four outdoor pools, an indoor pool and spa centre. The resort is also family-friendly and provides babysitting services and beds for the little ones, plus a kids’ pool and playground. One of the main highlights is Al Quimia, a stylish concept restaurant serving dishes made from local, sustainable ingredients.

This is an updated version of an article originally written by Nina Santos.

If you’re looking for somewhere a little different to stay, why not book into one of the best beach hotels in Albufeira? For more inspiration, check out the top things to see and do while you’re here, including the best restaurants for a true taste of the Algarve.

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