Sao Joao Holiday

It is almost impossible to be bored in Sao Joao, located about 40km west of Faro. It's ideal for young people looking for lazy days on the beach and a buzzing nightlife. (Families like it, too - but choose carefully if you're a light sleeper!). Sedate surf softly laps a five-kilometre stretch of golden sand in this glorious bay, sheltered by striding cliffs. As you might expect from a modern resort, some building work is still taking place.

Beaches

The golden sandy beach of Praia d'Oura lies on the coast at Sao Joao. A boat trip around the caverns and grottos hollowed out by the sea is a leisurely way to cool down.

Shopping

The central square has lots of street vendors trading in local handicrafts, particularly landscape art.

Nightlife

There is a brilliant nightlife with lots of lively bars and a couple of busy discos.

Local Specialities

There are plenty of restaurants available in Sao Joao. If you fancy trying some local cuisine, order 'sardinhas assadas' - sardines grilled over charcoal.