Place to stay - Salema?

The word on the street is that there are private homes/B&Bs available once you arrive in Salema. Get into town early in the day and head to the beach for parking. Walk (left when facing the ocean) up onto the main street and ask for lodging; someone may approach you with an offer of lodging. If you walk about 100 yards, you will find the grocery store. I would ask there if you still need a place to stay. I wouldn't think that in late September it would be too difficult to find lodging in Salema. I was there earlier this year and stayed at the big hotel there. It may be booked with groups, such as the Rick Steves tours. Salema is a good choice to experience of a small town on the sea.

Swan, what did you think of the big box hotel (Hotel Residencial)? I have not checked with them yet on availability. I have mixed feelings about the place based on descriptions I've read (Rick's book and elsewhere). Thanks.

We really enjoyed staying at Pension Mare--we had a lovely room with a kitchen, small living room, bed, and bath overlooking the town and the ocean. You will love Salema! Here's the website: http://www.algarve.co.uk/

Sharon, I'm sure we would love staying at the Pension Mare, but as I stated above in my question, it's all booked up....so I'm asking about alternatives. Thanks.

Opps! Sorry David...I didn't read the question completely. It's just that we had such a great stay at Pension Mare and it was reasonably priced--I'd keep checking for a possible cancellation and/or talk to John the owner about another recommendation in Salema--it's a very small town. Best wishes! Sharon