Praia Grande de Pera / Algarve / Portugal

Nestled between Salgados and Armacao de Pera, you will find the lovely natural beach of Praia Grande de Pera in Portugal's Algarve region. This spot is less crowded than other beaches on the Algarve and is also a sanctuary for protected birds. The spot is great for kitesurfing and windsurfing as well as sailing and is suitable for all abilities. The season is from March to October although off season is possible.

The beach is very large and sandy with facilities for the disabled as well as sunshade rentals and small craft hire. It is also supervised during the season. The beach has lovely soft sand and it is safe to launch from here. There is plenty of space for lots of kites. The summer months of June, July and August can get crowded, however, and time restrictions may well apply, especially at weekends and peak times

It is windy all year round here with March to October receiving thermal south westerlies at around 10-12 knots and the rest of the year seeing east or south east Levante winds from Tarifa at around 12-22 knots. The water quality is clean and works well on all tides. The spot is great for kiting. There are some good waves in the winter time or with the Levante and the rest of the time the water is almost flat to choppy. Summers are warm here and you only need wear a pair of shorts. Come winter, though, and you will need to suit up accordingly.

There is parking here as well as good beach access. There are also shower and toilet facilities and disabled facilities. In addtion there is a very good restaurant on the beach which serves up fresh fish. For supplies and a wide choice of shops, bars and restaurants, head into Albufeira which also has some really good night life on offer.

No real safety issues here but watch out for summer crowds and time restrictions.