In the East the counties of Olhao, Sao Bras de Alportel, Tavira, Castro Marim, Alcoutim and Vila Real de Santo António are described. It is the region east of Faro up to the Rio Guadiana forming the border with Spain.
The Rio Guadiana is the frontier from Portugal with Spain. The Puente Internacional del Guadiana connects both countries with each other.
The northern regions of the eastern Algarve are scarcely inhabited.
The production of salt is an important economic factor in the Algarve.
In the national park Rio Formosa exist many offshore islands without motor traffic.
Ships and boats are for many locals the basis of existence.
Beaches in the east are flat and fine-sandy. The water is significantly warmer and calmer than at the west coast.