Hen party in the Algarve: the ultimate guide
Planning a hen party that everyone will remember? The Algarve is one of Europe’s top destinations for brides-to-be and their best friends, thanks to its sunshine, beaches, and unbeatable nightlife. From poolside cocktails and private boat cruises to spa days and wild nights out on the Strip, the region has everything you need to celebrate in style. With great weather from March to October, affordable food and drinks, and flights from the UK in under three hours, it’s the perfect mix of fun and value. Whether your bride wants a glamorous weekend, a beachy escape, or a full-on party, this guide shows you the best places, activities, and tips to plan the ultimate Algarve hen do.
Hen party at a glance
- Best time: March-October (peak party vibe: May-September)
- Top bases: Albufeira (The Strip), Praia da Rocha (beach + clubs), Vilamoura (marina glamour)
- Trip length: 2-3 nights is perfect
- Budget guide: €250-€450 pp (2 nights, mid-range hotel, 2 paid activities)
- Transfers: Faro Airport to Albufeira 35-45 mins; Praia da Rocha 60 mins; Vilamoura 30-35 mins
- Vibe options: Boat parties • Champagne charter • Spa day • Bar crawl • Jeep safari
Best places for hen parties
Albufeira
If you’re after non-stop nightlife, Albufeira is the ultimate hen party hotspot in the Algarve. The famous Strip is lined with cocktail bars, karaoke pubs, and late-night clubs where the party doesn’t stop until sunrise. Big-name venues like Kiss, Club Vida, and Le Club attract international DJs, while countless bars offer happy hours and themed nights that guarantee a lively start to the evening.
The best part? Most hotels in the area are within walking distance of the action, so you don’t need to worry about late-night taxis. To avoid noise complaints, choose accommodation in the party zone. These hotels are used to hosting groups and welcome the energy. Whether you’re pub crawling, dancing until dawn, or sipping cocktails on Praia da Oura beach, Albufeira delivers the classic hen do experience.
Praia da Rocha
For a hen party that mixes beach vibes with buzzing nightlife, Praia da Rocha in Portimão is a fantastic choice. Everything is within easy walking distance: the lively main street is packed with pubs like Cheers Bar, Royal Teaser, and Ireland’s Eye, while beachfront spots such as Moonlight Bar, Aloha, and Outro Bar keep the cocktails flowing with ocean views. When it’s time to dance, Katedral offers a proper clubbing atmosphere, while upscale beach clubs like NoSoloÁgua and Puro Beach Club bring a glamorous touch with pool parties, live DJs, and themed events like the legendary White Party.
The beauty of Praia da Rocha is that you can switch from laid-back afternoons on the sand to all-night dancing without ever needing a taxi. It’s stylish, energetic, and perfect if your group wants a balance of sun, sea, and serious partying.
Best activities for the ultimate hen party
Whether your bride is a classy spa lover, a party animal, or something in between, the Algarve has the perfect activities to match. From laid-back afternoons to wild nights out, you can shape the celebration around her style and your group’s vibe. Below, you’ll find a list of the best activities to help you plan the ultimate hen do in the Algarve.
Boat tour
No hen party in the Algarve is complete without a boat trip along its stunning coastline. Think golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and the kind of views that make perfect Instagram shots. Many party boats depart from Albufeira, offering the ultimate mix of sun, music, and cocktails. On board, you can dance with your girls, toast to the bride, and even take a dip in the sea between drinks.
Most tours also include time for swimming or snorkeling, so you’ll spot colorful fish while cooling off. Whether you want a laid-back cruise or a lively floating party, this activity sets the perfect tone for an unforgettable hen weekend.
Matt’s Bar
For nearly three decades, Matt’s Bar in Albufeira has been a go-to spot for hen and stag groups looking to party hard. Famous for its lively atmosphere, cheap drinks, and nonstop fun, it’s the kind of place where the night always gets a little wild. During summer, the bar also runs the legendary Sunset Boat Party from May to September, a three-hour cruise with live DJs, free shots, and champagne sprays.
The party kicks off at 6 PM, sailing from Albufeira to Vilamoura and back, with music, dancing, and plenty of laughs along the way. A ticket costs € 40 and includes drinks on board, free entry to the afterparty at Matt’s Bar, and club entry later that night. It’s the ultimate combo of sea, sun, and shots, and a must for any hen do in Albufeira.
Book the boat sunset party now
Champagne cruise
If your bride deserves nothing but the best, a private champagne cruise from Vilamoura is the ultimate way to celebrate. Step aboard a luxury yacht. Think sleek Sunseekers and Fairline Targas, and start the day with a champagne welcome before setting sail along the Algarve’s golden coastline. With an open bar of wine, beer, and soft drinks, you and your girls can sip, sunbathe, and dance like celebrities while soaking up breathtaking ocean views.
Many charters also include use of a smaller speedboat for added fun, so you can explore caves, hidden beaches, or even jump in for a swim. Prices start around €900 for the whole group, making it surprisingly affordable when split between friends. It’s a glamorous, unforgettable experience that gives your hen party that millionaire lifestyle feeling, even if only for a day.
Spa treatments
Not every hen do has to be all about late nights and cocktails. Sometimes the perfect celebration is a day of pure relaxation. If your bride loves a bit of pampering, the Algarve has some incredible spa resorts where you can unwind together. Picture soothing massages, steam rooms, saunas, and hydrotherapy pools designed to melt away any pre-wedding stress.
A spa day is also a great way to balance out a big night out, giving everyone in the group time to recharge before the next round of partying. With options ranging from mountain retreats in Monchique to luxury beachfront resorts in Albufeira, you’ll find the ideal setting for indulgence, laughter, and quality time with the girls.
Monchique Resort & Spa
Tucked away in the lush hills of Monchique, the Monchique Resort & Spa is the perfect escape for a hen party that needs a little downtime. Surrounded by fresh mountain air and stunning views, this spa offers a full day of relaxation with access to its thermal facilities. You and your group can enjoy the aroma cabin, Himalayan salt sauna, steam room, hydro-massage pool, tropical showers, and a variety of relaxation lounges designed to help you completely switch off.
A day pass costs around €40 per person, and you can enhance the experience with optional treatments like aromatherapy or hot stone massages. It’s an affordable yet luxurious way to spend time together, recharge your energy, and give the bride a peaceful break before the wedding festivities.
Grande Real Santa Eulália Spa
If you’re looking for a truly luxurious spa experience, the Grande Real Santa Eulália Resort & Hotel Spa in Albufeira is a top choice. Overlooking the golden sands of Santa Eulália Beach, this five-star spa is designed for indulgence, with 17 treatment rooms and a wide range of therapies to spoil your group.
The highlight is the Thalassotherapy circuit, which includes a sauna, steam room, hydromassage pool, jacuzzi, and Turkish bath. Treatments like hot stone therapy or the Lusitanian ritual with Portuguese calabashes add a unique, memorable touch. At around €130 per person, it’s a more premium option, but one that guarantees your hen party a day of pure relaxation and pampering in a stunning setting.
Cocktail making
If your bride loves cocktails, why not turn the fun into an activity with a cocktail-making workshop? In the glamorous setting of Vilamoura Marina, you and your group can learn the secrets of mixing, shaking, and tasting your own creations. These masterclasses are hands-on, lighthearted, and perfect for plenty of laughs along the way.
Not only will you pick up some new skills, but you’ll also enjoy drinking the cocktails you’ve made, making it both an activity and a party in one. It’s a classy yet playful experience that’s ideal for bonding, snapping Instagram-worthy photos, and kicking off a night out in style.
Book your cocktail making workshop
Male stripper
No hen party is complete without a little cheeky entertainment, and a male stripper is a classic choice that always gets the group laughing. In Albufeira, you can book a show at popular party spots like Matt’s Bar, where the atmosphere is already buzzing with hen and stag groups.
If you prefer something more private, many providers can arrange for a stripper to come directly to your apartment, villa, or hotel. Whether it’s a quick surprise performance or a full show, it’s a hilarious icebreaker and guarantees a moment the bride won’t forget. Just remember: what happens in the Algarve, stays in the Algarve!
Buff butler
Kick off your night with a touch of cheeky fun by hiring a buff butler. These charming, semi-naked hosts will serve drinks, snacks, and keep the party flowing while your group gets ready for the evening ahead. It’s the perfect icebreaker. Expect lots of laughs, plenty of photos, and just the right amount of mischief. Whether you’re celebrating in a private villa, apartment, or hotel, a buff butler adds that little extra sparkle (and eye candy) to your pre-party. It’s a lighthearted way to spoil the bride and set the mood for a memorable night out in the Algarve.
Jeep tour
For a break from the beach and bars, a jeep tour through the Algarve countryside is a fantastic way to explore together. On this half-day adventure, you’ll bounce along off-road trails, passing orange groves, cork forests, waterfalls, and picturesque villages that most tourists never see. Along the way, your guide will share stories about local traditions, history, and hidden gems.
The tour also includes a stop at a family-run farm, where you can taste homemade honey, jams, and the famous Medronho firewater, a strong local spirit made from arbutus berries. It’s the perfect mix of fun, culture, and adventure, giving your hen group a chance to see the Algarve from a completely different perspective.
Sample itineraries
Example 1: party-forward (2 nights)
Day 1 (Fri): Arrive → hotel check-in → pool pre-drinks with a buff butler → dinner near The Strip → bar crawl → club until late.
Day 2 (Sat): Lazy brunch → Sunset Boat Party from Albufeira → afterparty at Matt’s Bar → VIP club entry included.
Day 3 (Sun): Brunch + beach chill at Praia da Oura → airport transfers.
Example 2: pamper & beach (2 nights)
Day 1 (Fri): Arrive → tapas by Vilamoura marina → cocktail-making workshop → relaxed evening bar.
Day 2 (Sat): Spa day at Monchique Resort & Spa → sunset viewpoint in Sagres → wine tasting at a local bar.
Day 3 (Sun): Champagne cruise from Vilamoura in the morning → farewell lunch → transfers.
Example 3: mixed adventure (3 nights)
Day 1 (Thu): Arrive → check-in → welcome dinner on the beach → cocktails at a rooftop bar.
Day 2 (Fri): Jeep safari through the Algarve countryside → pool party afternoon → clubbing in Albufeira.
Day 3 (Sat): Champagne cruise from Vilamoura → beach time → themed party night at Praia da Rocha.
Day 4 (Sun): Relaxed brunch → last-minute shopping → transfers.
Our tips
- Book early. Hen groups are chaos to organize, so lock in flights, hotels, and activities months in advance. You’ll not only save money, but also secure rooms near nightlife zones instead of ending up miles away in a quiet resort.
- Sort the money drama before you fly. Nothing kills the vibe faster than arguing over bills. Collect everyone’s share upfront, agree on a daily budget, and nominate one “treasurer” to run the kitty. Not every bar or taxi takes cards, so always keep a stash of euros handy.
- Appoint a “responsible one” each night. Rotate the role of someone who stays just sober enough to hold the keys, sort taxis, and herd the group home. It doesn’t kill the fun, quite the opposite. It prevents disasters and ensures nobody misses out on tomorrow’s plans.
- Plan your hen do for May, June, or September. You’ll get beach-perfect weather, lively nightlife, and way fewer stag and hen groups than in peak July-August. Flights and hotels are also much cheaper, leaving you with more budget for parties and activities.
- Don’t underestimate day drinking. Algarve sun + cocktails = easy wipeouts before dinner. Plan lunch breaks and water stops so your squad actually makes it to the clubs.
How to organize and book it
Planning a hen party abroad can feel overwhelming, but the Algarve has plenty of specialists who can help you put it all together. If you’d rather skip the stress of booking activities one by one, consider using a dedicated hen party organizer. They can arrange everything from accommodation and transfers to boat parties, bar crawls, and cheeky surprises, making sure the weekend runs smoothly.
Popular companies like Go Hen and Hen Heaven offer tailored packages for the Algarve, so you can pick and choose experiences that fit your bride’s style and your group’s budget. Working with a professional also means you’ll have local contacts on the ground, which is a huge plus if plans need adjusting last minute.
Group budget (quick planner)
- Hotel: €40-€120 pp/night (location & season)
- Activities: €30-€70 pp each (boat party, jeep, cocktail class); private yacht: from €900 per group
- Food & drinks: €30-€60 pp/day (casual to mid-range)
- Transfers: €10-€25 pp each way (group share)
Tip: Collect 80-90% upfront to lock bookings; keep 10-20% for tips & extras.
FAQ
The Algarve is famous for its golden beaches, lively nightlife, and affordable prices, making it a perfect hen party spot. Flights from the UK take under three hours, and the weather is great from March to October. You’ll also find everything from boat parties and spa days to glamorous beach clubs, giving every group the chance to celebrate in style.
The peak season is May to September, when the weather is hot, beaches are buzzing, and nightlife is at its liveliest. March, April, and October are also excellent, offering warm temperatures, cheaper accommodation, and fewer crowds. Winter months are quieter, but some activities like spas and daytime excursions are still possible.
Most groups plan for two to three nights, which is enough for a mix of activities, beach time, and big nights out. A weekend trip works perfectly, especially if flying from the UK or Ireland. Longer stays of four or five nights are great for groups who want a balance of partying and relaxation.
Albufeira is the ultimate nightlife hub, with The Strip offering endless bars, clubs, and pubs until sunrise. Praia da Rocha in Portimão is another top choice, combining a beautiful beach with energetic nightlife. Vilamoura is more upscale, perfect if you want classy cocktails by the marina alongside stylish bars and clubs.
Yes, Albufeira is the number one hen party destination in the Algarve. The Strip is packed with bars, karaoke pubs, and nightclubs, so you’re never far from the action. Hotels in this area are used to hosting groups, so it’s ideal if you want lively nights without worrying about noise complaints.
Top activities include boat parties, champagne cruises, cocktail-making workshops, spa days, jeep safaris, and bar crawls. Many groups also book cheeky extras like male strippers or buff butlers for fun entertainment. Whether your bride prefers relaxation or full-on partying, there’s something to match every style.
Matt’s Bar in Albufeira is legendary for hen and stag parties thanks to its wild atmosphere, cheap drinks, and fun events. They also organize the famous Sunset Boat Party, which includes DJs, free shots, and afterparty entry. It’s a must-visit spot if your group loves a lively night out.
On average, expect to spend between €250–€450 per person for a two or three-night stay. This includes accommodation, activities, food, and drinks. Splurges like private yachts or luxury spas will raise the budget, but there are affordable options too.
Flights from the UK and Ireland to Faro Airport are generally affordable, especially if booked early. Prices are lower in spring and autumn compared to peak summer months. Budget airlines frequently offer direct routes, making it easy and cost-effective.
Many hotels in Albufeira, Praia da Rocha, and Vilamoura welcome hen groups, especially those near nightlife areas. These hotels are used to the lively atmosphere and won’t be bothered by noise. Always confirm the hotel’s policy before booking to avoid surprises.
It depends on your group’s style. Hotels close to nightlife are convenient and often used to hosting groups, while villas offer privacy and space for pool parties. If you choose a villa, check local noise rules to avoid complaints.
Classic themes like all-white outfits, sailor stripes, or sparkly glam are always popular. Fancy dress works well for pub crawls, but check club rules before committing. Many groups also choose a fun prop like sunglasses, flower crowns, or sashes to keep things coordinated.
Yes, booking early is highly recommended, especially for boat parties, spa days, and accommodation. Popular activities often sell out in peak season. Securing spots in advance also helps lock in better prices and reduces stress closer to the trip.