It’s easy to assume Portugal’s parties start once the sun sets. But in the Algarve, the sunset parties are where the night’s adventures really begin. Take to the water for a boat party, start (or end) the night in a beach club or track down the outdoor clubs rivalling Ibiza on party atmosphere. With so much focus on the outdoors, you’d be right to assume that summer is the season to land here. Though, year round, the indoor spots keep the Algarve nightlife vibes pumping.
Clubs
Bliss - Vilamoura
If you’re looking for a slice of Ibiza in Portugal, you’ll most likely find it at Bliss. Really, it’s the only Algarve nightlife spot that can go toe to toe with the Balearic super clubs. And, at times it feels like everyone in the Algarve has flocked to this club. Choose from outdoor parties on the huge dancefloor or indoor spots catering to your particular music niche. Looking for something a little more exclusive? VIP spots surround the DJ booth – though, the real draw is perhaps the Veuve Cliquot bar serving just you and your VIP friends. Champagne not your tipple? There’s an exclusive Grey Goose bar too.
Kiss - Albufeira
This club has clocked up some serious dance history in the last 40 years. The black and white photos are perhaps a stretch too far, but it always pays to know a venue really does know how to keep its revellers coming back for more. Kiss is in the heart of Albufeira’s Rua da Oura, which may lean a smidge towards stag party territory for some, but this three floor belter isn’t a bad shout for a night out. They don’t bring in the biggest names, but the national radio DJs certainly stir up the home crowd. And, let’s face it, the formula has worked for decades at Kiss, why change things now? The classic club elements are all there. Go Go dancers, themed nights an eclectic mix that’ll stay with you longer than the hangover might.
Dice - Vilamoura
If you’re looking for a slightly more sophisticated dance club, Dice in Vilamoura could be the one. Part of the Casino de Vilamoura, there’s the added glamour that comes with the thrill of a night at the roulette table. You can certainly expect to be among Portugal’s high rollers, though, whether they’ll swap their Blackjack hand for a spin on the dance floor is up for debate. Expect, first class cocktails, live music and little expense spared on everything from the interior design to the acts lined up for theme nights and parties. As with most venues, the evenings here start out fairly chilled, but as the night moves on, the dance moves break out.
Beach Clubs
NoSoloAgua - Portimao
The best nightlife in the Algarve needn’t always be found in the traditional nightclubs. NoSoloAgua’s beachclubs expertly blur the lines between beach-side hangout and night time party scene. There are three locations across the region, but our pick of the trio is the upscale spot at Portimao. By day, you can expect to sit on the dappled shade of the terrace, eating expertly crafted sushi, while the chilled out beats soothingly mingle with the sound of the waves. As the sunset draws near, the tempo shifts, the parties start and the champagne flows. Big name acts have been known to drop into their beach parties – as guests and performers.
Thai Beach Club - Vilamoura
If you’re looking for a lively night out, that never gets quite as raucous as the bars and clubs of Albufeira, the Thai Beach Club ticks that particular box. The beach bar and restaurant sits on a raised deck near the sands of Falésia Beach – one of the best beaches in the Algarve. From it’s gorgeous vantage point it slings spicy plates of delicious Thai food and expertly mixed cocktails to an ever appreciative crowd. Expect fellow diners – and sunset cocktail fans – to be perhaps well-heeled, but this spot never feels too exclusive or cliquey.
Bars
The Black Stove
There’s a real fondness for an Irish Bar in the Algarve and, beyond Albufeira’s many incarnations of the theme, one of the best examples can be found elsewhere. Head to The Black Stove – the owners are Irish ex-pats who have brought a taste of Ireland to central Alvor. Expertly drafted Guinness, live music, walls awash with Irish memorabilia and live sports on pleasingly large TV screens keep regulars coming back for more. About as far from the traditional Portuguese experience as you could expect to be, but sometimes, a taste of a home is just the thing.
Boat parties
Ocean Quest
By day, the Ocean Quest catamarans whisk tourists out to sea to spot the Algarve’s resident dolphins. At sunset, the boat sets sail for 2.5 hours of drinks and sightseeing. Though, the vibe really can vary – from all out revelry to chilled cocktails and ambient sounds set to the back drop of Albufeira’s caves and rock formations. Do check before you book as to what that evening’s tour may look like. And, pop your swimming gear in. Occasionally, sea conditions do allow for a swimming stop.
Belize Boat Party
For a real party atmosphere at sea, hop aboard one of Algar Experience’s catamaran trips. A 3 hour sunset sail soundtracked by their house DJ sees you setting course for caves and coves along the Algarve coast. Your ticket includes an open bar for the first hour of the trip, after that, drinks can still be purchased, though your appetite could well depend on sea conditions! The parties happen on one of two sizable catamarans, which both come with a bar, lounge area, upper deck, toilet facilities and free WiFi. A definite change to the bars and clubs you’ll find on land.
