Originally a small fishing village that earned its name from the fishing tackle (armação) that was used to catch tuna fish, Armação de Pêra is now a popular cosmopolitan resort that draws increasing numbers of holidaymakers to its beautiful beaches.
Calm warm waters and a gently shelving shore have made the beaches of this area popular with families. Visitors can choose between the small coves framed by beautiful limestone cliffs lying at the western end of the resort or the expanse of fine golden sand that stretches eastwards as far as Praia da Galé. Some of the sheltered bays provide greater seclusion and can also be accessed by boat on one of the many exploratory tours that the local fishermen offer around this fascinating coastline of sculpted rock.
Armação de Pêra is a very animated resort with an abundance of shops, restaurants and bars, many of which are situated along the lively promenade that skirts the main beach. As many of them stay open until late at night, this is also a popular evening venue. Excellent fish restaurants with a more local flavour can be found in the fishermen’s district above the Praia do Pescador.
For a combination of culture and beautiful panoramic views of the coastline, you can visit the quaint little chapel of Nossa Senhora da Rocha, situated on a headland lying some 3.6 kilometres (2.2 miles) to the west of Armação de Pêra.