If you’re planning your holiday in the Algarve and are looking for sun, sea and tranquillity, the beaches of Faro are an excellent choice. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa, they offer not only stunning scenery but also a calmer and more authentic atmosphere than other, busier tourist areas in the Algarve.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the best beaches in Faro, with tips on how to get there, what to expect from each one and how to have a truly unforgettable experience with Islands 4 You, the region’s number 1 boat tour company.
Why choose Faro beaches?
Unlike other Algarve destinations, where the beaches are located next to cliffs or busy towns, Faro’s beaches are located on barrier islands within the Ria Formosa Natural Park. This means that:
- They are calmer and more preserved
- They have access by boat, which reduces the excess of visitors.
- The water is calmer, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
- The landscape is unique: dunes, marshes and wildlife everywhere.
The combination of unspoilt nature, crystal clear waters and white sand makes this area one of the best choices for those looking for paradisiacal beaches in Portugal.
1. Deserta Island Beach (Barreta)
Deserta Island is the perfect place for those looking for a truly wild and peaceful experience. It is the only uninhabited island in the Ria Formosa and can only be accessed by boat.
What to expect:
- Long beach, with over 7 km of white sand
- Quiet environment without buildings
- Ideal for long walks, meditation and nature photography
How to arrive:
The easiest and most convenient way is with Islands 4 You tours, which include stops on this magical island.
2. Farol Island Beach
Farol Island combines the best of both worlds: the natural beauty of a barrier island with a small, charming and welcoming coastal village. It is perfect for families, couples and those who enjoy walking between sandy streets and fishermen’s houses.
What to expect:
- Wide beach with clear waters
- Small cafes and restaurants by the beach
- An emblematic lighthouse that gives its name to the island
- Ideal spot to watch the sunset
How to arrive:
The Islands 4 You boats make regular stops at Ilha do Farol and offer free time to explore the town and the beach.
3. Culatra Beach
A Culatra Island is a traditional fishing community where time seems to have stood still. The beach is accessible after a short walk from the pier, crossing the village via a wooden walkway.
What to expect:
- Calm sea, ideal for swimming with children
- Authentic village with fresh fish restaurants
- Local atmosphere, away from the tourist crowds
- An excellent spot for snorkeling
Extra tip:
Try the cataplana or the fresh bivalves in one of the town’s restaurants – a real Algarvian delight!
4. Faro Beach (island with road access)
A Faro Beach is the only one of these beaches directly accessible by car, across a narrow bridge. That’s why it’s also the busiest, especially in summer.
What to expect:
- Long stretches of sand, with calmer areas if you walk towards the ends
- Surfing, bodyboarding and other nautical activities
- Lots of bars, restaurants and accommodation
- Young and relaxed atmosphere
Top tip:
If you want to enjoy this beach more calmly, choose to visit it at the end of the day or outside the high season.
5. Ria Formosa’s secret beaches
When you take a tour with Islands 4 You, you’ll also discover secret beaches, accessible only by boat. Some islets only appear at low tide, creating sandbanks perfect for quick dives, incredible photos and a “private island” feeling.
These beaches have no name on the map – but they are often the highlight of the tour.
How to visit Faro’s best beaches in comfort and safety
The most practical and enjoyable way to visit Faro’s best beaches is by boat, especially with a local company that knows the tide times, the hidden corners and the best times to visit each island.
Islands 4 You offers:
- Tours with stops on the main islands (Deserta, Farol, Culatra)
- Private and personalized tours
- Boat transfers with flexible schedules
- Multilingual and experienced guides
Tips for making the most of the Ria Formosa beaches
- Take sunscreen and a hat, the sun reflects strongly on the sand
- Bring water and snacks, especially for beaches like Deserta
- Wear flip-flops or beach sandals to walk around the islands
- If you like diving or snorkeling, take diving goggles with you
- Always respect nature: don’t leave garbage and avoid protected areas
Faro’s beaches are among the best in Portugal
If you’re looking for an alternative to the overcrowded beaches of the central Algarve, the islands of the Ria Formosa offer a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty that is still little explored by many tourists. Ideal for those who value authenticity, nature and simplicity.
Combining all this with the excellence of Islands 4 You tours, your visit to Faro can become truly unforgettable.
How do I book a trip to Faro’s beaches?
It’s that easy! Just visit our website www.islands4you.pt, choose the tour you want and book online. You can also visit our physical store in the center of Faro, next to the Arco da Vila, right next to the tourist office.
Conclusion
Faro’s beaches are a well-kept secret in the Algarve – and now you know where to find them. From deserted islands to fishing villages to hidden sandbanks, there’s a whole world to explore in the Ria Formosa.
Let yourself be carried away by the tide, embark on one of our tours and discover the natural paradise that Faro has to offer.
