Spanning over 18,000 hectares, the Ria Formosa Natural Park is a stunning labyrinth of lagoons, canals, marshes, and wetlands. But one of the best parts of this sprawling landscape is its enchanting barrier islands, separating the lagoons from the ocean. These islands promise endless discovery, from wild beaches to lively fishing villages and iconic lighthouses.
The best, and only way, to reach these islands is by boat. At Formosamar, we visit some of the most captivating islands during our Faro Boat Trips to Ria Formosa, including Ilha Deserta, Ilha da Culatra, and Ilha do Farol. Read our guide to island hopping in Ria Formosa to learn more about this trio, and don’t hesitate to contact us about our tours!
Ilha Deserta: The Untouched Island
As the name suggests, Ilha Deserta, also called Barreta Island, is completely uninhabited. It’s the definition of tranquillity, offering visitors the chance to truly disconnect. When you step ashore, you’ll find nothing but sand, sea, and sky.
A long wooden boardwalk leads across the island to Cape Santa Maria, the southernmost point of mainland Portugal. Standing here, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly before you, feels like reaching the edge of the world. Along the way, you’ll pass windswept dunes dotted with hardy vegetation.
Although there are no homes or villages here, there is one single building belonging to the only restaurant on the island — Estaminé. At this eco-friendly restaurant, you can dine on fresh seafood while admiring the scenery.
Deserta’s stretch of beach is absolutely pristine, thanks to the lack of human presence. The water here is crystal clear, inviting swimmers and snorkellers. Birdwatchers will also be in their element, as seabirds flock to this open island. During our Boat Tour to Deserta and Farol Islands in Ria Formosa, you can explore this serene locale as well as its busier neighbor…
Ilha do Farol: The Lighthouse Island
Named after the lighthouse that towers over the island, Ilha do Farol, “Lighthouse Island”, has a charming, almost nostalgic atmosphere. It’s home to the Cabo de Santa Maria Lighthouse, which was first opened in the 19th century to guide ships along the Algarve. Today, it’s one of the most recognisable landmarks in Ria Formosa, and can be climbed for panoramic views.
Beneath the lighthouse lies a beautiful stretch of beach, with golden sands and calm, turquoise waters. There are plenty of amenities available, including bathrooms, showers, and sunbeds, making it a prime location to spend the day. And with the small village nearby, you can choose from a number of cafes and restaurants to enjoy a refreshing drink and meal.
The beaches may get crowded in the summer, but they are still far less busy than many of the more well-known beaches in the Algarve. To help you plan your trip here, read our guide to The Best Time to Visit Ria Formosa: Seasons, Wildlife, and Escaping the Crowds.
Ilha da Culatra: Tradition and Fishing Culture
West of Ilha do Farol lies Ilha da Culatra, one of the last strongholds of traditional island life in the Algarve. Most families here have lived from the sea for generations, and the village remains largely untouched by mass tourism.
Home to a fishing community of around a thousand residents, you’ll experience the Algarve at its most authentic. Walk through sandy streets among small, brightly coloured houses, and admire the boats bobbing gently in the harbour. At local cafes, you can savour the catch of the day and the island’s famous fresh oysters.
The sweeping beach provides the perfect balance between the serene Deserta and busier Farol beaches. Swim, sunbathe, and simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the serenity of island life. While we don’t offer tours directly to Ilha da Culatra, you can use our ferry shuttle service, with a one-way trip taking about 30 minutes.
The Magic of Island-Hopping in Ria Formosa
For the best experience of Ria Formosa, visit all three islands and uncover each of their unique charms. In just one day, you can walk along untouched beaches on Deserta, share a meal with fishermen on Culatra, and admire breathtaking views from the lighthouse on Farol. Each island shows a different side of the Algarve, from its wild beauty to enduring traditions and its warm hospitality.
If you book a Private Boat Tour in Faro with us, we can take you to all of these islands for a fully immersive journey through Ria Formosa. Our guides will share details of the marine life, history, and culture of the Algarve, allowing you to truly appreciate what you see. And with the boat to yourself and your group, you’ll enjoy a truly special experience of this region. For an idea of what itinerary you could follow, read our Diary of a Full-Day Catamaran Charter in Faro.
Explore the Ria Formosa Islands with Formosamar
Whether you want to experience the solitude of Ilha Deserta for yourself or visit all three of these islands on a full-day adventure, Formosamar is here to guide you through Ria Formosa. Our sustainable boat tours bring you closer to this region’s natural beauty while protecting it. If you have any questions about our trips, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. The Ria Formosa awaits.
