Algarve Family Hotels – Tips and Recommendations

With its golden beaches, breathtaking cliffs, and tucked away bays, the Algarve is a perfect destination for your family vacation.

The west coast is rather secluded, starting from the cliffs of Cabo de São Vicente, Portugal’s most southwesterly point.
The central coast from Lagos to Albufeira and Faro, is lined with villas, hotels, and resorts.
The eastern part is less busy and stretches all the way to the Spanish border.
Faro, with its international airport (FAO) is the region’s central hub.
Best time to visit: May and September.
We recommend to book your accommodation through Booking.com and some of the activities through Get Your Guide, however, we will explain in details which hotels and why, or which activities we recommend for which age group.

Note: The chronological listing is not an indication of ranking.

Check out our updated travel guide for the Algarve.

The 12 Best Hotels for Families on the Algarve

Martinhal Family Hotels & Resorts, Sagres, luxury

The Martinhal group has four hotels and resorts in Portugal, two of them on the Algarve. Both are highly recommended, however, we chose the one on the Sagres Peninsula in the far west of the Algarve, as it is the most family friendly. This 5-star property has five swimming pools, three restaurants, and four bars. The boutique-style rooms and villas have private terraces and balconies. There are lots of children’s activities for every age. It’s about an hour drive (85km) to Faro International Airport. Tel: +351 218 507 788.

Check out our detailed guide on this hotel

Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel, Algarve, Portugal

Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort, Carvoeiro, luxury

Recently renovated, the Tivoli Carvoeiro is a very family-friendly 5-star resort. It has a wonderful swimming pool overlooking the ocean, three restaurants, including the excellent Med Food & Wine seafood restaurant, three bars, a spa, and everything else you expect from a 5-star resort. Many rooms have a terrace and/or sea view – make sure to ask. Family rooms are available. Tel: +351 282 351 100.

3HB Clube Humbria, Albufeira, mid-range

This aparthotel is a good option if you’re looking for all-inclusive. This 4-star property caters specifically to families and is only a short walk (800m) away from a pretty beach. Their 1-bedroom apartments have kitchenettes and dining areas. There is a great outdoor children pool, a separate one for adults, a children playground and kids club. There is day and night entertainment available. Tel: +351 289 583 390.

Praia Verde Boutique Hotel, Castro Marim, luxury

A great family hotel option on the eastern Algarve, close to the Spanish border is this 4-star modern and stylish hotel. Wonderful swimming pool and views of the Atlantic. The ‘Lobby Market’ is a unique space and serves as the reception, lounge, play area for kids, working area. It also has a small grocery store. Rooms are well equipped with kitchenettes. Tel: +351 281 530 600

Casa Arte, Lagos, mid-range

Relaxing boutique villa rental with fully equipped kitchen and outdoor pool. Situated in a quiet rural area, it’s the perfect place to relax if you want to be “far away from the action”. Although it’s just a ten-minute drive to the charming city of Lagos with its ancient churches and downtown (origins dating back as far as 2000 years BC). There are only 5 bedrooms, some of them interconnect for families. You need to book directly with the hotel. Tel: +33 6 13 58 04 83. Email: [email protected]

Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira, luxury

Modern, well-maintained resort with hotel, apartments, and villas. The huge holiday complex has eight restaurants and six swimming pools, plus a fun ‘Porto Pirata’ 7000 square meters children’s village with two pirate ships, daily activities, and mini golf. There are lots of activities offered: on-site 9-hole golf course, padel, health club, water sports, etc. There is direct access to the beach Praia da Falésia. Tel: +351 289 500 300.

Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Hotel Spa, Albufeira, luxury

5-star resort with direct access to the beach (2 minutes walk). Kids enjoy the three separate children pools and the Realito Kids Club which offers games, music, and activities for every age. There are three on-site restaurants that cater to children and an on-site Le Club disco. There is a Thalassotherapy Spa. Upgraded rooms have a balcony and sea view (make sure to check). Tel: +351 289 598 000.

Suites Alba Resort & Spa, Carvoeiro, luxury

Wonderful 5-star resort on cliffs overlooking the beach with direct access to Praia de Albandeira. The elegant 1- or 2-bedroom suites are all equipped with private terraces or balconies. Ask for the upgraded ones with sea views. There is a kids club, kids pool, and a playground. Enjoy your candle-lit dinner at the on-site restaurant or two bars. Infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Tel: +351 282 380 700.

Alfagar Village, Albufeira, budget

With a cliff-top location and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, this 3-star hotel is an affordable option for families with kids. It’s a 10 minutes walk to Santa Eulália Beach which is accessible via long stairs. The resort offers 1- to 3-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes and balconies, however, Wifi is only available in public areas. Ask for the upgraded apartments with ocean view. The pool area has wonderful ocean views. There is a restaurant on-site. Tel: +351 289 540 210.

Crowne Plaza Vilamoura, Vilamoura, mid-range

Although the hotel complex looks pretty unspectacular from the outside, this 5-star hotel still offers all the amenities that you can expect. There is a Peter Pan Kids Club, with daily activities and animated movies, as well as a playground. All rooms have balconies with lounge chairs – most have an amazing sea view. The outdoor pool faces the sea. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the center of Vilamoura, the Casino and the happening Marina. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar. Tel: +351 289 381 600.

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa, Porches, luxury