Why autumn suits Salema, Algarve
- Weather without the scorch: Expect balmy days perfect for the beach and alfresco dinners, with comfortable nights for great sleep.
- Space to breathe: Restaurants and activities are easy to book and fewer tourists mean quieter towns, coves and beaches.
- Nature on show: Crystal clear water for snorkelling, lively surf at Sagres and along the Algarve’s west coast, not to mention glowing sunsets you’ll actually get a table for.
Beautiful west Algarve beaches to bookmark (our picks)
- Praia da Salema (home!): A sweeping, friendly bay with gently shelving water – ideal for morning swims before coffee in the village or a day relaxing and catching a few rays laying on the sand.
- Praia do Zavial: A short hop east; wilder feel, consistent surf in autumn and a great spot to watch the sunsets roll in, plus there’s a fantastic beach restaurant.
- Praia da Ingrina: A sheltered cove next door to Zavial – bring a snorkel for fish-spotting along the rocks when the sea is calm. There’s also an unpretentious beach bar serving great food.

Autumn Algarve holiday activities (beyond the beach)
- Dolphin watching from Salema: Calmer seas and fewer boats make autumn a superb time for sightings. Go early for glassy water. No holiday to Salema is complete without a boat trip to search for dolphins.
- Kayak tour or boat trip around Ponta da Piedade, Lagos: This stunning natural beauty is one of the most well-known coastal landmarks in Europe. Honeycomb cliffs and sea arches glow in autumn light; where you’re sure to take some stunning holiday snaps.
- Hike the Algarve Fishermen’s Trail: Follow the cliff-top path east between Salema and Burgau, or further. Alternatively, head west towards Sagres. Pack water, swim gear, wear trainers and time it to finish at sunset.
- Taste the coast: From grilled dourada, via piri-piri chicken to cataplana stews, autumn menus lean into comforting, hearty plates. Seafood lovers should ask for the catch of the day.
- Portuguese wine and Algarvian villages: Potter through Vila do Bispo and up to the Costa Vicentina national park for tastings and spectacular viewpoints.
Why a Simply Salema villa holiday elevates autumn
Autumn is about slowing down – and that’s where a private villa comes into its own. Wake to the Atlantic framed by your bedroom window; wander to the pool terrace for breakfast in soft sunshine; return after a hike to a loungy living space made for board games and a bottle from a local adega. Our private villas in Salema include:
- Ocean-view terraces for golden-hour dinners.
- Private pools you’ll often have all day sun on.
- Roof terraces for mesmerising vistas.
- Games rooms to while away the evenings.
- Spacious open-plan layouts for families or friends to spread out.
- In–resort services to line up restaurant bookings, in-villa dining, activities or a local guide.
With Simply Salema you’ll find villas designed and commissioned by ourselves for location and liveability. Think walkable-to-beach and village, sea views, and thoughtful amenities that make September and October and the whole of autumn a great time to visit the Algarve.

Your autumn holiday in the Algarve
Ready for space, sunshine and a slower rhythm of life!? Contact us now.