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Natural park · Faro, Faro
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
Coastal lagoon protected by sand islands along about 60 km of the eastern Algarve coast, with channels, marshes and island beaches. Boat trips leave Faro for islands such as Deserta and Culatra.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
Ria Formosa is a coastal lagoon that stretches about 60 km, from near Faro to the Tavira and Cacela region. It is separated from the sea by a string of sand islands and peninsulas, with inlets where the tide flows in and out.
It was declared a natural park in 1987. The channels, sandbanks and salt marshes shelter many birds, such as herons, spoonbills and flamingos, which are usually seen more in autumn and winter. The ria is also an important area for clam (berbigões) and oyster beds.
Boats leave Faro for the islands. Ilha Deserta, or Barreta, is the southernmost point of continental Portugal and has an extensive beach; Culatra has a fishing village and the small settlement of Farol.
Praia de Faro, at the western end, is on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge, near the airport, and can be reached by bus.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day to a full day, with a boat trip and beach time.
Best time
June to September for the island beaches, with more boat services. Spring, autumn and winter are better for birdwatching. Boat schedules depend on the tide and the season.
How to get there
Boats depart from the Porta Nova quay and Faro dock, next to the Cidade Velha. Praia de Faro is served by a bus from the center.
Tip
Check the return boat time before disembarking on an island. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen: there is little shade.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
What is the Ria Formosa?
A coastal lagoon protected by sand islands on the eastern Algarve coast, a natural park since 1987.
How do you get to the islands of the Ria Formosa?
By boat, from Faro's quay, with schedules that change according to the tide and the season.
Can you see flamingos in the Ria Formosa?
They tend to appear mainly in autumn and winter, but there is no guaranteed day to see them.
What is the Ilha Deserta?
An island of the Ria Formosa, also called Barreta, with an extensive beach; it is the southernmost point of continental Portugal.