Golf - The Algarve is one of Europe's leading golf destinations, home to over thirty courses. Nearly half are within a 20 minute car journey from Carvoeiro. These include some of the top championship courses in Europe. New courses have recently opened in Silves and Morgado near Portimao. Warm playing conditions and immaculately manicured fairways and greens are the norm. There are three established courses in Carvoeiro - Pinta and Gramacho are part of the Pestana group and there is a nine hole course at Vale do Milho, others in the Central Algarve are within easy reach by car.

Zoomarine - Located in Guia, near Albufeura on the EN125 - approx 20 mintue drive from Carvoeiro. Enjoy an entertaining day out at the fascinating Zoomarine Park. Discover the mysteries of the sea through a range of exhibitions and shows featuring dolphins, seals, sharks and other exotic marine life. Relax in the tranquil gardens or enjoy the different amusement rides in the park such as the big wheel, the pirate ship and the mini roller coaster. There are swimming pools for both adults and children and a variety of shops and restaurants, all of which make Zoomarine an excellent day out for all the family. Last but not least, there is also an unique opportunity to feel and share the world of the dolphin through the Dolphin Interaction programme. Here you get the chance to meet the Dolphins at close quarters, learn more about these wonderful creatures. Participants are able to enter the water under expert supervision and get to know the Dolphins while taking part in sequences of aquatic behaviour - an unforgettable experience.

Slide n Splash - Another opportunity to stay wet for a whole day! This water park is located at Estombar, east of Lagoa and is well signposted on the EN125 road. This park is only 5 mintues by car from Carvoeiro. The park has slides and entertainment for all the family.

Aqualand - Also known as 'The Big One' - this is a large park (over 6 hectares). Parents will be relieved to note that there are shaded gardens in which to relax while the younger ones are at play. This is reputed to be Europe¥s largest open-air water park and boasts more than 1500 metres in length of aquatic acitivity fun. Location on the EN 125 near Alcantarilha, north of ArmaÁ„o de Pera and about 10 km from Carvoeiro.

Boat Trips - are very popular here in the Algarve. Vilamoura, Portimao and Lagos marinas all offer an array of boat and sailing trips to suit all. Dolphin watching is also very popular. Carvoeiro has a few ticket agencies in town that will be happy to provide further details on these and get you booked up. Some trips will offer transportation to the necessary marinas.

Horse Riding- The riding centres (or stables) are happy to deal with anyone, from beginner to advanced. Most places have English-speaking instructors, but it's always worth checking first. The available options should suit just about anybody. Beginners can book an hour's ride, and more proficient riders can enjoy a half- or full-day hack. There are many centres for horse riding in the Algarve, such as those at Silves, Porches, Penina/Portimao and Albufeira.

Tennis - The Carvoeiro Tennis Centre is a multi-sport complex offering many activities from beginners level to advanced for young and old. The centre is located in Sesmarias, only a few minutes from Carvoeiro over looking the sea and surrounded by pleasant countryside. The complex is opened all year round and are glad to meet your special requirements. The complex has 12 courts and a double sided practice wall. 9 of these courts are an all-weather surface (Flexi-court), 2 Canada Tenn Clay Courts (American Clay) and one artificial grass court. The courts can be rented by the hour. The mild climate in the Algarve is ideal for pre-season tennis. If a tennis court opponent of any standard is required, one can be provided. The tennis school has 7 well qualified coaches, and they all offer tuition in English, Portuguese, German, French and Dutch. Lessons can be taken in groups or individually. The Tennis school emphasis is on the children's tennis education.

Shopping - The Algarve has 2 large, modern shopping malls - The Forum Algarve in Faro and Algarve Shopping in Guia nr Albufeira. Algarve Shopping is about a 20 minute car journey away, east on the EN 125. More than one hundred shops and a large supermarket occupy two levels. Upstairs there are several restaurants and well known fast food chains offering food and beverages for every taste and budget. Sufficient parking slots are available even in rush hours. There is a cinema and ten pin bowling alley . Opening hours daily from 10 a.m.