Originally named Praia da Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz, the original name which meant the beach of the church of our lady of the light has been shortened. Praia da Luz was a fishing village and a long wall of net was stretched from the rocks in front of the Fortaleza to trap the Tuna. The great fish were brought ashore at the slipway along the beach. Today the migratory routes of the fish lie far out to sea and what fishermen remain find it easier to work from the harbour at nearby Lagos.

Despite the increasing popularity of the Algarve, Luz has so far remained very much a family destination. In the village there are excellent super-markets, a chemist, a butcher, a bank and many other shops where most things required on holiday can be purchased. Numerous restaurants and a discothèque are within walking distance. In nearby Lagos, a thriving town, there is an excellent fresh vegetable, fruit and fish market as well as further restaurants and all the usual shops.

Although a holiday at Casa do Mar can be very self contained, there are many places of interest and activities nearby. Golf at the famous Penina, Palmares and Floresta golf courses, wind-surfing, fishing, water-skiing, tennis, scuba diving, sailing, riding and a casino. A car is useful and there are some lovely places to visit such as Portimao, Praia da Rocha, the Monchique Mountains and Cape St Vincent, as well as a wide choice of other secluded sandy beaches, within easy reach.

The climate is one of the best in Europe, rarely any frost or snow and seldom excessive humidity. Temperatures range between 10oC and 20oC (50oF and 68oF) in winter and 20oC and 30oC (68oF and 86oF) in summer. Winter rainfall is generally between 245mm and 508mm (10 and 20) and less than 127mm (5) in summer. The coast faces south and spring starts early. The almonds flower in mid January, and orange trees are in full blossom in March, at the same time carrying fruit ripe for picking. Average annual sunshine is over 3,000 hours.