Guides

Wave height is the least useful number on a surf forecast. How to read period, direction and wind in the Algarve, and what each combination means for board size.

Wind, sun and sand break the wrong camping gear here. What to bring, what to leave at home, the fire rules, and where you are allowed to pitch.

Praia de Faro is under 4 km from the airport. The bus, taxi and walking options, and what actually works once you are carrying a surfboard.

Sea temperature in the Algarve runs from about 16 to 22 degrees. Which suit for which month, why March is colder than January, and why the west coast is cooler

The Ria Formosa is flat, warm and full of birds, and it is entirely governed by the tide. Where to launch, when to go, and what to keep off.

The Algarve has two coastlines facing different directions. Which one works depends entirely on the month. A season by season guide, with wetsuit thicknesses and drive times from Faro.

Airline surfboard fees to Faro run from 35 to 70 EUR each way. Here is what each airline charges, what renting costs instead, and when bringing your own board is