Things to do in Ilha Do Farol

Activities, attractions and tours

Aerial seascape view of Cape Santa Maria lighthouse island, Praia do Farol beach, one of the barrier islands that protect the Ria Formosa natural park, in Algarve Tourism Destination region, Portugal
Aerial seascape view of Cape Santa Maria lighthouse island, Praia do Farol beach, one of the barrier islands that protect the Ria Formosa natural park, in Algarve Tourism Destination region, Portugal
Lighthouse of Farol Island in Formosa Estuary, Algarve, Portugal.
Aerial view of Farol Island in Formosa Estuary, Algarve, Portugal.
Looking out over the southern most point of Portugal
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Top places to visit

1. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.
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Falesia Beach featuring general coastal views, a sunset and a sandy beach

2. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.
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Vilamoura Marina which includes a bay or harbour

3. Olhao Harbour

Life in Olhão centers on the city’s harbor and marina area. Watch as fishing boats pull into dock and unload their catches, many of which will be bound for nearby restaurants. Or, take a boat trip to the fabulous beach-lined barrier islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park.
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Olhao Harbour featuring a bay or harbor

4. Faro Island Beach

Faro Island Beach is one of the area’s most picturesque and popular sandy stretches. Cafés, restaurants and watersports operators sit along the strand, which lines 3 miles (5 kilometers) of a narrow sand bar. Enjoy the unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Formosa River on the other.
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Faro Island Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views

5. Ria Formosa Natural Park

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a large reserve on the Algarve coast that stretches between Garrão Beach and Manta Rota. With its intricate system of wetlands, canals, marshlands and beaches, the nature reserve shelters a vast diversity of coastal plants and animals. Explore this 37-mile (60-kilometer) stretch of landscape by boat or kayak. Join a guided walking tour and learn about the local fishing traditions that continue amid the resource-rich wetlands.
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Ria Formosa Natural Park which includes general coastal views

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What to do in Ilha Do Farol

Popular places to visit

Faro Island Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views

Faro Island Beach

4.5/5(163 reviews)

Rent kayaks and surfboards to ride the waves lapping this narrow stretch of sand, which serves as a wall between ocean and river.

Faro Island Beach
Beautiful marina in touristic Vilamoura, Quarteira, Algarve, Portugal

Faro Marina

4.5/5(66 reviews)

Explore the waterfront of Faro Marina and enjoy other activities such as golfing in Sé e São Pedro. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Faro Marina
Faro Cathedral which includes a coastal town

Faro Cathedral

4.5/5(13 reviews)

The Cathedral of Faro, also known as Sé or the Church of Santa Maria, is one of the most important historic buildings in Faro. It’s located in the historic city centre, in Largo da Sé. The architecture consists of a mixture of different styles: gothic (tower porch, main entrance, and some chapels), mannerist and baroque.

Faro Cathedral
Faro, cafes in the Praca do Afonso III, Old Town Cidade Velha

Old Town Square

5/5(5 reviews)

Find out about the history of Sé e São Pedro when you spend time at Old Town Square. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area or visit its lively bars.

Old Town Square
Come here at blue hour

Faro Town Hall

Faro Town Hall is just one of the places to see in Sé e São Pedro, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around this relaxing area's marina and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Faro Town Hall
Carmo Church featuring heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Carmo Church

4/5(44 reviews)

Behind the intricate details of the Baroque façade and the nave’s gilded woodwork and stained-glass windows lie the ghoulish skulls of the Bones Chapel.

Carmo Church

Estoi Palace

5/5(1 review)

Find out about the history of Estoi with a stop at Estoi Palace. Amble around this relaxing area's marina and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Estoi Palace

Forum Algarve Mall

5/5(2 reviews)

During your trip to Sé e São Pedro, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Forum Algarve Mall. Amble around this relaxing area's marina and enjoy its lively bars.

Forum Algarve Mall

University of Algarve

Enjoy the student vibe at University of Algarve during your stay in Montenegro. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

University of Algarve

 

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Faro Island Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views

Faro

Frequently asked questions

Is Ilha Do Farol worth visiting?
Ilha Do Farol offers an interesting mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or local cuisine, there's a lot you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Ilha Do Farol?
Praia do Farol is an awesome place to begin your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Ilha Do Farol while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ilha Do Farol?
The top tourist attraction near Ilha Do Farol is Praia do Farol, so don't forget to include it on your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Ilha Do Farol?
Three days in Ilha Do Farol is enough time to explore the nearby hotspots. A favourite among travellers is Praia do Farol and Cape St. Mary, so why not check them out when you're in the area?
What are some activities to do in Ilha Do Farol with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Ilha Do Farol with kids.

What to do in Ilha Do Farol for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Ilha Do Farol. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor activities or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Ilha Do Farol?
It's easy to find free things to do in Ilha Do Farol. If you ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for places and activities you can experience at zero cost. One of the best free options for your itinerary is Praia do Farol.