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Why is the Algarve water so cold?

In the Algarve, the sea is typically warmer compared to the rest of Portugal, but even there, strong winds and currents bring cold water from deeper parts of the Ocean to the surface, resulting in cooler temperatures.



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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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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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Praia de Faro water temperatures peak in the range 21 to 23°C (70 to 73°F) on around the 13th of August and are at their coldest on about the 24th of February, in the range 15 to 17°C (59 to 63°F). Praia de Faro water temperatures are warmest in the third week of August.

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Playa de Lagos sea temperatures peak in the range 22 to 25°C (72 to 77°F) on around the 10th of August and are at their lowest on about the 1st of March, in the range 15 to 16°C (59 to 61°F). Playa de Lagos sea temperatures are always warm reach their warmest in early to mid August.

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Living in Portugal, we are blessed with a warm climate and stunning beaches, but the sea is practically always “freezing”. This is due to a combination of factors such as Portugal's location on the westernmost part of Europe, where we are exposed to the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

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The graph below shows the range of monthly Albufeira water temperature derived from many years of historical sea surface temperature data. The warmest water temperature is in September with an average around 70°F / 21.1°C. The coldest month is March with an average water temperature of 60.6°F / 15.9°C.

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You can swim in the ocean comfortably from March until October. And in the winter months, you can take long refreshing beach walks. Find out what the weather in the Algarve is like from January until December.

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Although it may be too cold to swim, visiting beaches in the Algarve in winter is still tons of fun. The beaches are gorgeous, and on sunny days, you can still plop down to enjoy the sunshine in the sand.

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The 1755 tsunami was not an unprecedented event. In fact, there are references to tsunamis caused by other earthquakes which hit the Algarve. A few years earlier, in December 27th, 1722, there was also a tsunami although its effects were only felt locally (SOUSA, 1915).

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The most common sightings in Portugal include the big Calpean jellyfish (Rhizostoma luteum), which is a large type of barrel jellyfish with a bell (head) up to 60cm in diameter; The Compass Jellyfish (Chrysaora hysoscella), usually spotted off the south coast (Algarve); The Jelly Blubber (Catostylus tagi), another ...

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The city is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, and it is generally considered to be a safe destination for tourists. The Portuguese police are very active in the area and are quick to respond to any reports of crime.

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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 highest temperatures in Portugal tend to occur inland. The town of Amareleja is one of the hottest places in Europe during the summer, with a high temperature of 47.4°C (117.3 °F) recorded on August 1, 2003. Amareleja is located in the municipality of Moura, in the district of Beja in the Alentejo region.

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Visiting the Algarve region of Portugal is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a sun-filled getaway. Generally, the best time to visit this charming coastal area is during the dry season between April and October, as this is when temperatures are at their highest and rainfall is at its lowest.

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Cold during the night and early morning, with the occasional frost at night on the coast but never at the villa, sunny temperatures can can reach the late teens during mid afternoon.

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This beach in the east of the Algarve is surrounded by green dunes and offers a peaceful atmosphere. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal choice for families. It's also a great place to admire the breathtaking sunsets.

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The Algarve region in Portugal is known for its natural beauty, rich culture and warm climate that brings constant sunshine and clear blue skies to the area year-round. Temperatures rarely drop below 20°C and reach a peak of 28°C in July and August.

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