Things To Do in Algarve With Kids: 10 Unmissable Adventures!

If your little ones love water slides, then Aquashow Park is an absolute must-visit! This exciting water park near Quarteira has everything from high-speed rides to a lazy river and a wave pool. They’ve got plenty of epic waterslides to keep the kids busy all day, like the Speed Foams, Twin Space Shuttle, Mammothblast, and so much more! Fun Fact: The Water Coaster is 23.5 metres high and is one of the largest roller coasters in Portugal!

There’s even an animal show featuring birds of prey and reptiles for an extra dose of adventure.

Why We Love It: This family-friendly day trip has plenty of adrenaline-pumping water slides as well as gentler water attractions, so there’s something for the whole family to enjoy! Plus, the Indoor Park has so many more activities to try like an obstacle course and epic playground!

The Algarve’s coastline is famous for its dramatic cliffs and sea caves, and a boat tour is one of the best ways to explore them. We do think the Benagil Cave is a real showstopper! It’s a breathtaking rock formation with a natural skylight, sea and golden sand.

Psst…the cave tours are family-friendly! Did you know that many of the boat trips will also offer dolphin-spotting opportunities too! Will you be able to spot one?

Plus, don’t forget the gorgeous beaches to relax on, too!

Why We Love It: The Benagil Sea Cave is absolutely breathtaking and sure to leave the whole family in awe! The highlight has to be seeing dolphins – after all, who doesn’t want to see a dolphin in the wild for real?

Zoomarine is a popular activity among tourists and locals – and for good reason! A trip to this theme park will give you an up-close encounter with marine life before you splash around on some epic waterslides! This family-friendly attraction in Albufeira features dolphin and sea lion shows, an aquarium, and a water park. You can also meet birds of prey and tropical parrots! It’s a fantastic day out for animal lovers and thrill seekers.

Why Families Love It: There’s truly something for all ages at Zoomarine, from thrilling rides to marine shows – bored isn’t a word here!

Have you ever wanted to see giant sculptures made entirely of sand?

Ever since we watched that one What’s New Scooby-Doo episode where they make sand sculptures, we have! FIESA Sand City in Lagoa is a jaw-dropping display of artistic talent, with intricate sand creations featuring everything from famous landmarks to cartoon characters. It’s a brilliant stop for a fun and unique photo opportunity.

Why We Love It: We love spotting all the different characters sculpted in the sand – plus, it provides great inspo for your next sandcastle build during beach season!

Ahoy, matey! Take your little explorers on a pirate-themed boat trip in Lagos and let their imaginations run wild. You can dress up as pirates as you learn about the region’s history and sail along the stunning coastline. Some tours even include stops at secluded beaches for swimming and treasure hunting!

Why Families Love It: It’s a real-life pirate adventure – Captain Jack Sparrow would be proud! Kids can dress up, learn about history, and enjoy a swashbuckling day at sea.

No trip to the Algarve is complete without a day at the beautiful beach! Praia da Marinha Beach is one of the most incredible beaches in Portugal, with crystal-clear waters and golden cliffs. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sandcastle-building. Check out Praia da Rocha or Praia do Camilo for a more sheltered, family-friendly spot.

Psst, the Algarve has plenty of popular beaches to discover, from Algarve Beach to Falesia Beach and Camilo Beach. They all have stunning beach restaurants, too, so your lunch is sorted on your day trip!

Why Families Love It: The calm waters, sandy beach, and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for a relaxing beach day. Pack a picnic and spend the whole day splashing in the sea and building sandcastles (or sculptures inspired by your visit to Sand City!).

Who doesn’t love a spot of mini golf with the kids? That’s why we recommend checking out one of the best things to do in Algarve – their amazing mini golf courses! Family Golf Park in Vilamoura has a Roman-themed course, while Adventure Golf Albufeira is packed with exciting obstacles. It’s a great way to keep kids entertained in a relaxed setting.

Why Families Love It: Mini golf is an easy win for all ages! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just having fun, it’s a great way to bond as a family.

If little legs need a break, then ALL ABOARD…the tourist train! These hop-on, hop-off trains run through many of the Algarve’s towns, including Albufeira, Lagos, which has Lagos Zoo, and Portimão. It’s a relaxing and exciting way for kids to explore without too much walking.

You’ll pass by nearby beaches and explore the prettiest towns.

Why Families Love It: It’s a fun way to see the sights and explore! The train is a fun and easy way to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.

For a more tranquil family day out, you have to visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a stunning coastal lagoon teeming with wildlife. Take a boat trip or rent bikes to explore the salt marshes, spot flamingos, and discover hidden beaches. It’s one of the largest coastal lagoons in southern Iberia!

Why Families Love It: It’s one of the most unique and fun things to do in Algarve! Plus, you get to see flamingos in their natural habitat!

History fans! This one is for you! Head on over to Silves Castle, a beautifully preserved Moorish fortress with stunning views over the town, for an incredible historic day out. Kids can run around the ancient castle walls and learn about Portugal’s fascinating past. Don’t forget to stop for a traditional Portuguese pastry in one of the nearby cafés!

Why Families Love It: Exploring a real castle feels like stepping into a fairy tale! With incredible architecture and panoramic views, this is definitely a place to add to your list!