Introduction
The Algarve region in Portugal is renowned for its stunning coastline, featuring six sandy islands that form part of the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park. These islands, accessible only by boat from towns such as Faro, Olhão, Tavira, and nearby villages, offer some of Portugal’s finest beaches. While popular with locals during the summer, these islands remain relatively undiscovered by tourists. Here’s a comprehensive guide to these beautiful islands and their pristine beaches.
Ilha da Culatra (Culatra Island)
Ilha da Culatra is one of the jewels in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It is one of six sandy islands in the Algarve, two of which are inhabited by small fishing communities, while the others remain nearly deserted. The island is accessible only by boat from Faro, Olhão, Tavira, and nearby villages. Stretching for kilometers, Ilha da Culatra boasts some of Portugal’s finest beaches. Despite their popularity among locals in the summer, these beaches remain relatively undiscovered by tourists. Certain areas of the island are designated as official nude beaches, adding to its unique charm.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Faro: Ferry at Porta Nova Pier
- Address: Rua Comandante Francisco Manuel 41, 8000-138 Faro, Portugal
- Website: Porta Nova Pier
- Coordinates: 37.0138, -7.9333
- From Olhão: Ferry at Olhão Pier
- Address: Avenida 5 de Outubro, 8700-307 Olhão, Portugal
- Website: Ferries Olhão
- Coordinates: 37.0271, -7.8425
Ilha Deserta (Desert Island)
Ilha Deserta, also known as Ilha da Barreta, lives up to its name as a truly deserted island located across from Algarve’s largest city. The island features a 7km (4 miles) stretch of pristine sand, with the western end designated as an official nude beach. It includes a small lighthouse, a solar-powered restaurant housed in a wooden building, and a few sheds by the pier. Surrounded by untouched nature, Ilha Deserta is accessible year-round by ferry from Faro. Visitors can explore the island via a 2km-long boardwalk over the dunes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking solitude.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Faro: Ferry at Porta Nova Pier
- Address: Rua Comandante Francisco Manuel 41, 8000-138 Faro, Portugal
- Website: Porta Nova Pier
- Coordinates: 37.0138, -7.9333
Ilha do Farol (Farol Island)
Ilha do Farol and Ilha da Culatra were once separate islands but have merged due to changing ocean currents, forming a single 6km (4 miles) island. The western end retains the name Ilha do Farol, featuring a 19th-century lighthouse and a small fishing community. Many fishermen’s cottages have been converted into summer homes, with a few restaurants specializing in fresh fish. The beach near the lighthouse can get crowded in the summer, but a short walk eastward leads to quieter areas. Further east lies Ilha da Culatra, connected by a long boardwalk to a second fishing village. These beaches are often deserted, with dunes stretching as far as the eye can see and occasional dolphin sightings. The clean white sand and Blue Flag-certified water can be accessed by ferries from Faro and Olhão.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Faro: Ferry at Porta Nova Pier
- Address: Rua Comandante Francisco Manuel 41, 8000-138 Faro, Portugal
- Website: Porta Nova Pier
- Coordinates: 37.0138, -7.9333
- From Olhão: Ferry at Olhão Pier
- Address: Avenida 5 de Outubro, 8700-307 Olhão, Portugal
- Website: Ferries Olhão
- Coordinates: 37.0271, -7.8425
Ilha da Fuseta (Fuseta Island)
Ilha da Armona and Ilha da Fuseta form another island with dual identities: Armona to the west and Fuseta to the east. This 9km (6 miles) long and 1km (over half a mile) wide island has a fishing village on the western end, while the eastern end remains uninhabited. Armona is accessible by ferry from Olhão, and Fuseta from the village of the same name. The island’s main street leads to a long boardwalk over the dunes to the beach, with fine white sand extending all the way to Fuseta. The deserted stretch between the village and Fuseta is frequented by nude sunbathers, classified as an “unofficial” nude beach by the Portuguese Naturist Federation. The dunes host a variety of wildlife, from birds to chameleons. Locals from nearby villages often visit Fuseta, particularly the eastern tip facing the neighboring island of Tavira, considered the best spot for a day at the beach.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Olhão: Ferry at Olhão Pier
- Address: Avenida 5 de Outubro, 8700-307 Olhão, Portugal
- Website: Ferries Olhão
- Coordinates: 37.0271, -7.8425
- From Fuseta: Ferry at Fuseta Pier
- Address: Largo da Igreja, 8700-019 Fuseta, Portugal
- Website: Fuseta Ferries
- Coordinates: 37.0533, -7.7467
Ilha de Tavira (Tavira Island)
Ilha de Tavira is the most popular island in the Algarve, spanning 11km (approximately 7 miles) and uninhabited. It comprises four beaches: Praia da Ilha de Tavira, Praia da Terra Estreita, Praia do Barril, and Praia do Homem Nu, all regarded as some of the best in the Algarve. Praia da Ilha de Tavira is accessible by ferry from Tavira and features a few restaurants and a camping site shaded by pine trees. The other beaches are backed by dunes, with Barril distinguished by a permanent display of over 100 anchors once used by tuna fishermen. Praia do Homem Nu, on the western end, is an official nude beach but is usually deserted. The island’s water temperature is slightly higher than the rest of the region, with calm seas that attract families. Most visitors stay at Praia da Ilha de Tavira or Praia do Barril, leaving the rest of the island for those seeking peace and quiet.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Tavira: Ferry at Tavira Pier
- Address: Rua José Pires Padinha 150, 8800-354 Tavira, Portugal
- Website: Tavira Ferries
- Coordinates: 37.1255, -7.6462
Ilha de Cabanas de Tavira (Cabanas de Tavira Island)
Ilha de Cabanas de Tavira is accessible by boat from the village of Cabanas de Tavira. This uninhabited island features a long, 7km (over 4 miles) beach that remains uncrowded, even during peak summer months. A short walk from the boardwalk past the rented wicker parasols leads to ample seclusion. Walking further east provides even more solitude. Like other islands, it boasts soft white sand and calm, clean waters. The only structure on the island is a restaurant connected to the boardwalk, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Cabanas de Tavira: Ferry at Cabanas de Tavira Pier
- Address: Rua da Fortaleza, 8800-595 Cabanas de Tavira, Portugal
- Website: Cabanas de Tavira Ferries
- Coordinates: 37.1421, -7.5977
Ilha de Cacela Velha (Cacela Velha Island)
Formerly a peninsula, Ilha de Cacela Velha became an island in 2010 when an inlet was opened. Overlooking the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the tiny hilltop village of Cacela Velha offers access to the island via a walk across the wetlands at low tide or boats in the summer. Named one of the world’s best beaches by Condé Nast Traveler’s Spanish edition, it spans nearly 2km (over one mile) and constantly changes shape with the tides. The water is calm and clean, providing a desert island-like atmosphere. This secluded spot is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
Where to Pick Up the Boat:
- From Cacela Velha: Ferry at Cacela Velha Pier (seasonal service)
- Address: R. de Cacela Velha 2, 8900-019 Vila Nova de Cacela, Portugal
- Website: Cacela Velha Ferries
- Coordinates: 37.1683, -7.5399
FAQs
1. What are the best times to visit the Algarve islands?
The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the islands are less crowded.
2. Are there any facilities on the islands?
Some islands have basic facilities like restaurants and restrooms, especially on Ilha de Tavira and Ilha da Culatra. However, many areas are untouched and do not have amenities.
3. Can I camp on the islands?
Camping is permitted only in designated areas, such as on Ilha de Tavira, where there is a camping site shaded by pine trees.
4. How do I get around the islands?
Most islands are small enough to explore on foot. Boardwalks and trails are available on several islands for easy navigation.
5. Are the islands family-friendly?
Yes, many of the islands are family-friendly, offering calm waters and clean beaches that are ideal for children.
Conclusion
The Algarve’s islands offer some of the most beautiful and serene beaches in Portugal. Whether you are seeking a secluded spot to relax, an official nude beach, or a vibrant community with fresh seafood restaurants, these islands have something to offer every beach lover. Accessible only by boat, they provide a unique and tranquil escape from the more crowded tourist spots, making them a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Plan your visit and explore the untouched beauty of these islands for an unforgettable experience.
