I know this is the Spain message board........ but seeing how portugal is its neighbor, thought i would throw a question out to anyone " i was wondering if anyone knew any cool beach towns to party at or to surf in Portugal?"

manz,
I have been in the Algarve twice (1979 and 1992). Both times I stayed in Albufeira. In 1979, this place was awsome and the perfect get away beach town to party in.

However, when I went back in 1992 the place had turned into "condos and hotels". You will also find a lot of UK people as well so English is widely spoken. I stuck to Spanish and had no problems.

Regardless, Albufeira in 1992 was still a lot of fun to go out at night and party. It has a nice beach as well. Have fun in Portugal!

I am headed to Spain/Portugal this week and am planning to go to Lagos, Sagres, and Salema which are all very close to eachother and are suppossed to be a great time.

You definetly should go to Lagos! It is exactly what you are looking for. A great party at night and beaches and surf near by. The HI hostel is cheap, clean, well located and fun. While there isn't much in the way of surf right in Lagos, there are surfers, so it can't be too far away, and I know Sagres - which is close has good surf.
Have fun.

BK

Go to Lagos and Albufeira.
Many of the other towns are quiet, quaint villages (not that that's a bad thing, but it's not what you're looking for).