The story of the Algarve Octopus
Follow the journey of the Algarve octopus — from local fishers and coastal communities to your table.
Polvo do Algarve
The “Polvo do Algarve” (Algarve octopus) is harvested and co-managed by the region's artisanal small-scale fleet. This iconic seafood reflects the rich maritime heritage of southern Portugal and the deep connection between coastal communities and the sea.
% of octopus landed by weight
% of octopus landed by value relative to total landings
Number of vessels
This fishing activity is particularly significant, with approximately 540 vessels operating in the Algarve region.
These vessels catch about 38% of all the octopus landed in Portugal and generate around 40% of the national first-sale revenue.
*Average values from 2020-2024
The “Polvo do Algarve” (Algarve octopus) is harvested and co-managed by the region's artisanal small-scale fleet. This iconic seafood reflects the rich maritime heritage of southern Portugal and the deep connection between coastal communities and the sea.
% of octopus landed by weight
% of octopus landed by value relative to total landings
Number of vessels
This fishing activity is particularly significant, with approximately 540 vessels operating in the Algarve region.
These vessels catch about 38% of all the octopus landed in Portugal and generate around 40% of the national first-sale revenue.
*Average values from 2020-2024
From sea to plate: The people that make it possible
The Algarve octopus isn't just a seafood favourite — it's a taste of the Algarve's culture and a lifeline for its coastal communities.
Hear the stories straight from the people who live it:
By tasting this local delicacy, you support local coastal communities and help preserve a tradition that has shaped the region for generations.
Eat local octopus
Octopus is a healthy, natural and nutritious seafood choice.
Curiosities
Fun fact: there are over 300 species of octopus.
Did you know? Octopuses have 8 arms, each lined with about 240 suckers!
Master of disguise! Octopuses can quickly change colour and texture to blend into their surroundings.
Octopuses grow insanely fast! They can double in size in less than a month.
Surprise! Octopuses have blue blood.
Amazing but true! Octopuses have not one, not two, but three hearts.
Lost an arm? No problem! Octopuses can grow it back.
Octopuses are incredibly strong: they are 90% muscle.
Booklet
Discover more about this iconic regional seafood in our Guide to the Algarve Traditional Algarve Octopus Fishery.
Click here to download your copy