A sandy beach with rocky cliffs and the ocean.

Albufeira Hotel Guide - Sao Rafael Beach hotels in Albufeira, Portugal.

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Tomorrow
22 Oct - 23 Oct
This weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct
Next weekend
30 Oct - 1 Nov

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Our top choices for Sao Rafael Beach hotels

1. Atlantic Bliss

Atlantic Bliss
Albufeira Center, 2.5 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Shawnsteen
€39
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Atlantic Bliss

2. Castelo Suites Hotel

Castelo Suites Hotel
1.8 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Amanda
€138
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Castelo Suites Hotel

3. Kimpton Atlântico Algarve by IHG

Kimpton Atlântico Algarve by IHG
0.5 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United Kingdom
Siddhika
€160
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Kimpton Atlântico Algarve by IHG

4. Vila Gale Collection Praia Hotel

Vila Gale Collection Praia Hotel
3.1 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United Kingdom
Peta
€130
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Vila Gale Collection Praia Hotel

5. W Algarve

W Algarve
2 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Shamli
€239
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
W Algarve

6. São Rafael Holidays

São Rafael Holidays
0.4 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United States
Alexander
€77
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
São Rafael Holidays

7. ETHOS Bertolina Wellness Urban Living.

ETHOS Bertolina Wellness Urban Living.
Albufeira Old Town, 3 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Ireland
sean
€88
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
ETHOS Bertolina Wellness Urban Living.

8. Hotel Indigo Albufeira by IHG

Hotel Indigo Albufeira by IHG
Albufeira Old Town, 3 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Terry
€83
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
Hotel Indigo Albufeira by IHG

9. Vila São Vicente - Adults Only

Vila São Vicente - Adults Only
Albufeira Old Town, 2.6 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Megan
€85
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Vila São Vicente - Adults Only

10. Hotel Cerro da Marina

Hotel Cerro da Marina
Albufeira Center, 2.1 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United Kingdom
Iain
€166
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Hotel Cerro da Marina

11. Hotel Sol e Mar - Adults Only

Hotel Sol e Mar - Adults Only
Albufeira Old Town, 2.9 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United States
Martin
€109
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Hotel Sol e Mar - Adults Only

12. NAU Sao Rafael Suites – All Inclusive

NAU Sao Rafael Suites – All Inclusive
0.6 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United Kingdom
Michael Gar Wing
€115
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
NAU Sao Rafael Suites – All Inclusive

13. Peneco Albufeira GuestHouse - Hostel

Peneco Albufeira GuestHouse - Hostel
Albufeira Old Town, 2.8 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United States
Sue
€121
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Peneco Albufeira GuestHouse - Hostel

14. Hotel Baia Grande

Hotel Baia Grande
1 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Joumana
€88
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Hotel Baia Grande

15. W Residences Algarve

W Residences Algarve
1.9 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United States
Jon
€329
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
W Residences Algarve

16. Vila Gale Atlantico Resort Hotel

Vila Gale Atlantico Resort Hotel
3.2 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Monika
€108
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Vila Gale Atlantico Resort Hotel

17. Hotel Baltum

Hotel Baltum
Albufeira Old Town, 3.1 km from Sao Rafael Beach
Canada
Nimisha
€79
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Hotel Baltum

18. The Homeboat Company Albufeira

The Homeboat Company Albufeira
1.6 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United States
Aida Mae
€123
includes taxes & fees
24 Oct - 25 Oct
The Homeboat Company Albufeira

19. Hapimag Resort Albufeira

Hapimag Resort Albufeira
1.4 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United States
Magaly
€162
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Hapimag Resort Albufeira

20. Edifício Sequeira by Umbral

Edifício Sequeira by Umbral
Albufeira Old Town, 3.1 km from Sao Rafael Beach
United Kingdom
SIMON SAMIR
€39
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Edifício Sequeira by Umbral
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Compare popular hotels close to Sao Rafael Beach

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Room
Atlantic Bliss
9.6
Exceptional
22 reviews
View
A rooftop pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, overlooking a coastal town.
Castelo Suites Hotel
9.4
Exceptional
20 reviews
View
A resort with a large circular pool surrounded by palm trees, overlooking the sea.
Kimpton Atlântico Algarve by IHG
9.4
Exceptional
171 reviews
View
A gym with exercise equipment, a treadmill, and a view of a green outdoor area.
Vila Gale Collection Praia Hotel
9.4
Exceptional
450 reviews
View
A balcony with a view of the sea, a pool, and a lounge area with seating.
W Algarve
9.4
Exceptional
146 reviews
View

Top Sao Rafael Beach Hotel Reviews

Hotel Da Gale

Hotel Da Gale

10/10 Excellent
"Imaculaterly clean, decent breakfast, excellent price-quality ratio!"
Johanna 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Hotel Da Gale
São Rafael Holidays

São Rafael Holidays

10/10 Excellent
"The staff always goes above and beyond to accommodate you. They will recommend places to see. They always smile, and take care of every little need."
Alexander 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
São Rafael Holidays
Castelo Suites Hotel

Castelo Suites Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"This hotel was beautiful! The pool was great & the room was very nice as well."
Amanda 2-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Castelo Suites Hotel
Hotel Maritur - Adults Only by Pierre & Vacances

Hotel Maritur - Adults Only by Pierre & Vacances

10/10 Excellent
"Main restaurant was closed for dinner. Said there was a swim up bar but never saw it. Everything else was fantastic. Had a great view of ocean and pool."
Brady 6-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
Hotel Maritur - Adults Only by Pierre & Vacances

Luxury 4-Bed Villa with Heated Pool & Rooftop Sea Views –400m from Coelha Beach

Luxury 4-Bed Villa with Heated Pool & Rooftop Sea Views –400m from Coelha Beach

10/10 Excellent
"This was our second time staying at the villa. It has a fantastic layout and wonderful outdoor pool. It's in a fantastic location very close to the coastline and many beautiful beaches. The house had everything for our needs. The host can even do a basic shop for you ahead of your arrival. Just remember to bring your own toiletries. We love this home so much, we've already booked our next stay!"
Simon W. 8-night trip
Posted 11 days ago
Luxury 4-Bed Villa with Heated Pool & Rooftop Sea Views –400m from Coelha Beach
Elegant Villa with Heatable Pool and BBQ

Elegant Villa with Heatable Pool and BBQ

8/10 Good
"Very good communication from start to finish with the host.. Only real negative was waiting an extra period of time to check in because the key was not in the key safe. Overall, I would definitely recommend staying at the property."
Mitchell P. 4-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Elegant Villa with Heatable Pool and BBQ
Elegant villa w/ heatable pool and jacuzzi - Galé

Elegant villa w/ heatable pool and jacuzzi - Galé

10/10 Excellent
"What a superb property for our late Summer break to Portugal.The outdoor pool and garden were fantastic to relax in after a days golf or padel"
Jamie W. 5-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Elegant villa w/ heatable pool and jacuzzi - Galé
House in a quiet area overlooking the sea, private pool and beautiful Garden

House in a quiet area overlooking the sea, private pool and beautiful Garden

8/10 Good
"Je recommande cette jolie maison."
laetitia r. 14-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
House in a quiet area overlooking the sea, private pool and beautiful Garden
Stunning Farmhouse With Private Gated Pool & Outstanding Sea and Beach Views

Stunning Farmhouse With Private Gated Pool & Outstanding Sea and Beach Views

10/10 Excellent
"Just got back from a lovely 10day vacation at Freya’s Casa do Grego villa . We were a party of two families (adults and teens) travelling in from Canada and the UK and this property gave us all the space we needed ( loved the multiple bathroom options!) is in a beautiful quiet spot with expansive ocean views yet still walkable to a local beach and plenty of restaurant options! We loved having our own space and pool (we opted to have it heated which was a vacation bonus!) The photos truly don’t do this property justice as this home brought Portugal charm but with mordern day needs .Both the host and the property manager were lovely - very responsive!Thank you for a lovely stay!"
Zara T. 10-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Stunning Farmhouse With Private Gated Pool & Outstanding Sea and Beach Views

Other attractions near Sao Rafael Beach

A beach with people swimming and walking, a large rock formation, and a dog on the sand.
Photo by Cláudia Alexandra Cotrim Cardoso

Arrifes Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Arrifes Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Albufeira e Olhos de Água.
See properties
A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, clear turquoise waters, and rocky cliffs.

Coelha Beach

Escape the tourist bustle of central Albufeira to relax, swim and snorkel at this beach of golden sand and unusual rock formations.
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A marina with colorful buildings and boats.

Albufeira Marina

8.4/10 (1,417 reviews)
Explore the waterfront of Albufeira Marina and enjoy other activities such as golfing in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
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Praia da Ponta Pequena

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia da Ponta Pequena during your trip to Albufeira e Olhos de Água?
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Praia das Andorinhas

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia das Andorinhas during your trip to Albufeira? Attend a sporting event or visit the spas in this family-friendly area.
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Castelo Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Castelo Beach during your travels in Castelo?
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Hotwheels Karting

You can take time to visit Hotwheels Karting during your travels to Albufeira e Olhos de Água.
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Nossa Senhora da Orada Convent

8.6/10 (4 reviews)
Find out about the history of Albufeira e Olhos de Água when you spend time at Nossa Senhora da Orada Convent. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches or seek out the golf courses.
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Find out more about Sao Rafael Beach

Top reasons to visit Sao Rafael Beach

  • Stunning Beaches: São Rafael Beach boasts beautiful golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Exciting Water Activities: Engage in thrilling water sports like surfing, kayaking, and boat trips to explore the Algarve's spectacular coastline.
  • Charming Neighbourhood: The nearby Albufeira area is known for its family-friendly vibe, rich history, and vibrant local culture.
  • Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of hotels, from relaxing resorts to vibrant beach getaways, catering to all preferences.
  • Hidden Coves: Discover secluded coves and scenic spots that enhance your adventure while exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Find great hotels near Sao Rafael Beach

Discover the charm of São Rafael Beach with a range of comfortable accommodations, including the São Rafael Atlântico and the São Rafael Suite Hotel. Perfect for families and adventure seekers, these hotels offer exceptional services and facilities for an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you prefer a relaxing resort atmosphere or a vibrant beach getaway, you'll find the ideal lodging to enhance your stay in this stunning part of the Algarve.

  • Hotel Maritur - Adults Only: Nestled just 644m from Sao Rafael Beach, Hotel Maritur offers a serene retreat tailored for adults seeking romance and adventure. This 4-star hotel, rated 8.4 out of 10, is defined by its nature-themed ambiance, where guests can indulge in a variety of onsite adventure sports such as hiking and boat tours. The property features charming romance packages and amenities including limited-hour room service, an inviting indoor pool, and swim-up bar. Guests can unwind on their furnished balconies or terraces, soaking in the natural surroundings, while spa services provide the perfect ending to a day of exploration.
  • Hotel Vila Recife: Located 3.2km from Sao Rafael Beach, Hotel Vila Recife presents a budget-friendly option for those focused on beach escapades. Known for its direct access to the sandy shores, this hotel is ideal for travellers who wish to immerse themselves in a sun-soaked beach experience without breaking the bank. The straightforward accommodations provide essential amenities, making it a practical choice for beach lovers eager to spend their days by the sea.
  • Topazio Vibe Beach Hotel & Apartments - Adults Friendly: Situated 4.8km from Sao Rafael Beach, this 3-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10, is a vibrant option for those seeking adventure alongside beach relaxation. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as windsurfing, horse riding, and cave exploring. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere combines comfort with a focus on adventure, making it a popular choice for adults looking to blend leisure with excitement during their stay in Albufeira.

Where to stay near Sao Rafael Beach

At São Rafael Beach, immerse yourself in the Algarve's stunning coastline, where beautiful beaches and a friendly atmosphere await. Explore the charming Albufeira area, known for its family-friendly vibe and rich history. Whether lounging on the golden sands or indulging in local cuisine, you'll find budget-friendly options that enhance your beach experience. Discover nearby hidden coves and vibrant neighbourhoods, making your holiday a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

  • Castelo: Located a mile from São Rafael Beach, Castelo is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty and vibrant local culture. The area sees a moderate influx of travellers, peaking from July to September. Visitors flock here for its splendid beaches, outdoor activities, and city-themed experiences. Popular attractions include shopping areas, golf courses, and the picturesque marina, making Castelo a fantastic base for exploring the Algarve region.
  • Sesmarias: Just 1.6km away from São Rafael Beach, Sesmarias is a quaint village known for its seasonal tourism, with visitors peaking in April and during the summer months. Ideal for beach lovers and sports enthusiasts, Sesmarias boasts a variety of outdoor activities, including access to renowned golf courses and luxurious resorts. The stunning local beaches and family-friendly marina add to its appeal, inviting you to unwind and enjoy the sun.
  • Santa Eulália: Situated 6.4km from São Rafael Beach, Santa Eulália is a lively neighbourhood that attracts a diverse crowd year-round, with peak visitor numbers from June to July and September. Known for its city-themed, family-friendly, and business-oriented environment, Santa Eulália offers a wealth of activities, including shopping areas and golf courses. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant marina nearby, it’s a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Things to do near Sao Rafael Beach

Shopping

At São Rafael Beach, you’ll find charming local shops offering unique souvenirs and gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to Albufeira Shopping, about 8.0km away, or visit Algarve Shopping, roughly 16.1km away, for a wider selection of brands and products.

Recreation

Sao Rafael Beach offers various wellness retreats, including calming yoga sessions on the sandy shores and rejuvenating spa treatments at nearby resorts. Enjoy guided nature walks through scenic coastal paths, or indulge in mindfulness workshops that immerse you in the serenity of this beautiful location.

Adventure

At Parque Aventura - Albufeira, located 6.4km from Sao Rafael Beach, experience thrilling ziplining and a challenging ropes course amidst the beautiful Algarve landscape. For motor racing enthusiasts, the Algarve International Circuit and International Kart Circuit, both 35.4km away, offer exhilarating races and competitive fun.

Nightlife

São Rafael Beach offers a vibrant nightlife atmosphere with beach bars like the São Rafael Beach Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails by the sea. Nearby, Albufeira's bustling Old Town features lively taverns and clubs, creating an energetic setting for a memorable night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sao Rafael Beach

To save money on your trip to Sao Rafael Beach, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February or November, when hotel prices are lower. Booking a hotel about a month in advance or seeking last-minute deals on sites like Expedia can yield significant savings. Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to filter accommodation by budget and eco-friendly options, and look for package deals that combine hotels with flights and activities for additional savings. Exploring the area on foot is also a cost-effective way to enjoy your surroundings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Sao Rafael Beach is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Sao Rafael Beach are January to February and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Sao Rafael Beach about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sao Rafael Beach is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Sao Rafael Beach is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices starting from the lowest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the ability to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Sao Rafael Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Sao Rafael Beach

During your visit to São Rafael Beach in Albufeira, you can indulge in the stunning coastal views and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the beach. Explore the nearby Albufeira beaches for more sun and relaxation, or engage in outdoor activities. Additionally, consider visiting local attractions like the piazza and golf courses for a blend of culture and leisure, ensuring a well-rounded experience during your stay in this beautiful region of Portugal.

  • Praia dos Olhos de Água: Located 8.0km from Sao Rafael Beach, this picturesque beach offers a charming, laid-back atmosphere. Known for its clear waters and golden sands, it’s an excellent spot for sunbathing and enjoying the local beach vibes.
  • Aveiros Beach: Just 4.8km away, Aveiros Beach is a hidden gem with golden sands and tranquil waters. Its scenic surroundings and relaxed ambiance make it ideal for a peaceful day by the sea.
  • Maria Luisa Beach: Situated 8.0km from Sao Rafael Beach, Maria Luisa Beach is renowned for its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The beach’s natural beauty provides a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Best time to go to Sao Rafael Beach

The best time to visit Sao Rafael Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January54.7°F (12.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyLowModerately Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately Low
March57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May65.7°F (18.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June70.2°F (21.2°C)No RainSunnyHighModerately High
July74.1°F (23.4°C)No RainSunnyHighModerately High
August75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainSunnyHighModerately High
September71.8°F (22.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
November60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowModerately Low
December57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Sao Rafael Beach

Accessing São Rafael Beach from the nearest airports is quite convenient. Faro Airport (FAO) is situated 29.0km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Conrad Algarve, 6.4km from the airport, and the 3-star Happy House, 3.2km away. Transportation from these hotels to Faro Airport may include services at varying fees. Alternatively, Portimão Airport (PRM), located 27.4km from São Rafael Beach, offers luxurious stays at Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel, 3.2km away, and the 5-star Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, just 1.6km away, with comprehensive shuttle services available for guests.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Sao Rafael Beach?
Sao Rafael Beach is located in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 192 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.
What's the best place to stay near Sao Rafael Beach?
Adjacent to Sao Rafael Beach, São Rafael Holidays is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this guest house offers an outdoor pool and free WiFi. Other good options within a short distance include Kimpton Atlântico Algarve by IHG and Hotel Maritur - Adults Only by Pierre & Vacances.
How many hotels will I find near Sao Rafael Beach?
Expedia has 192 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Sao Rafael Beach.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Sao Rafael Beach, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of room reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your arrival date. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to view the best deals near Sao Rafael Beach.
What can I see and do near Sao Rafael Beach?
You'll want to browse the exhibits at Museum of Sacred Art and Casa Museu do Acordeao. Castle Wall Ruins, Nossa Senhora da Orada Convent and Medronheira Tower are some of the notable landmarks to see in the area. Dip your toes in the water at Peneco Beach, Gale Beach and Praia dos Alemães.

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