🌡️ Weather & Seasons – When to Visit the Algarve
☀️ Summer (June – September)
Hot, dry and reliably sunny. Temperatures range from 28°C to 40°C inland. The coast is kept cooler by sea breezes. This is the most popular period — beaches are busy and accommodation prices peak in July/August.
🌸 Spring (March – May) — The Best Kept Secret
The Algarve bursts into bloom with wildflowers, almond blossoms and mild temperatures (18°C–24°C). Beaches are empty. Prices are much lower. Perfect for hiking, cycling and relaxed sightseeing.
🍂 Autumn (October – November)
Still warm (22°C–26°C), sea temperatures remain pleasant into October. Crowds disappear after mid-September. A wonderful month for a quieter, more affordable trip.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
The Algarve in winter surprises most visitors. It rarely gets cold (10°C–17°C), and sunny days are frequent. Many locals consider January and February the most beautiful months — almond blossoms cover the landscape with white flowers. Most tourists are absent entirely.
💨 Wind — The Hidden Factor
- The Vicentina Coast (west) is consistently windy year-round. Kitesurfers and surfers love it. Sunbathers less so.
- The South Coast is much more sheltered. Afternoon breezes in summer are a welcome relief.
🌊 Sea Temperature
The Atlantic off the Algarve is colder than many visitors expect. Summer sea temperatures peak at around 21°C–23°C on the south coast, and can be 4–6°C colder on the west coast where cold Atlantic currents are stronger.