Why is Algarve water so cold?

Because Algarve, unlike Andalucia, is not in the Mediterranean sea: it's in the Atlantic Ocean. Furthermore, sea currents are really complex, so just because Atlantic Ocean may feel “warm” somewhere else, doesn't mean around Algarve it will be the same.



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The ocean currents can be strong and unpredictable. If you plan on swimming, go to beaches with lifeguards and pay attention to the warning flags – green means it's safe to swim, yellow means use caution and stay near the shore, and red means do not enter.

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The Algarve is one of the sunniest regions of Europe. With a warm climate and over 300 days of sunshine a year, you can enjoy a great holiday throughout the year. If you are looking for a beach holiday, then the Algarve is the perfection destination. You can swim in the ocean comfortably from March until October.

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Praia dos Coelhos, Sétubal The setting for innumerable films and advertising campaigns, this idyllic, secluded beach on the Arrábida coastline boasts some of the clearest waters you'll likely ever swim in. Though increasingly on the tourist trail, it's still relatively crowd-free.

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The seas are a little too rough for anything more than paddling if you have young children. The restaurants and bars around the beach are top notch though, if a little too English. I would like to try out of the main tourist season, my guess is it would be a much more pleasant experience.

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If you are looking for a beach holiday, then the Algarve is the perfection destination. You can swim in the ocean comfortably from March until October. And in the winter months, you can take long refreshing beach walks.

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Both countries have Mediterranean climates, meaning they are generally temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. In Portugal, the average temperature in Lisbon is 24°C in July and 11°C in January, and in Spain the average temperature in Barcelona is around the same: 24°C in August and 10°C in January.

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During the day, the land bordering the sea heats up, which means the air above the land is hotter than the air above the water. Since warm air above land expands and rises, the cooler, heavier air from the water rushes in to take its place. This creates wind.

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In fact, the waters of Portugal's coasts are rather cold compared to those of the Mediterranean Sea. A period of mental and physical preparation is necessary to enjoy a swim in the waters of the beaches of Portugal. However, there are some places where the temperature of the water is warmer and warmer.

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Portugal is very highly ranked on the list of Europe's top beach destinations with 432 of the country's beaches and marinas currently flying the coveted Blue Flag for cleanliness and quality.

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