Discover the desert island!

Ilha Deserta is a piece of paradise where time seems to stand still and nature reigns supreme. Discover Ilha Deserta, one of the Algarve's best kept secrets, and enjoy unique moments in the heart of nature.

Deserta island

Praia da Barreta, better known as Ilha Deserta, is one of Ria Formosa's hidden treasures and has unique characteristics that make it an unmissable destination for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature. This is one of the five barrier islands in the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

The journey from Faro can take between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on whether you're travelling by ferry or shuttle, or around 25 minutes by aquataxi from the city of Olhão. Along the way, you can admire some of the most beautiful and rare species of protected birds in the Ria Formosa.

Supervised

Yes

WC

Yes

Rental Shades

Yes

Bar or Restaurant

Yes

Accessible

No

Ferry tickets from Faro

Ferry all year round to Ilha Deserta from Cais Portas do Mar, Faro: 

SCHEDULE

The journey takes around 40 minutes.

Price per journey

  • Adults: 5€
  • Children (5 - 11 years): 2,50€
  • Babies (0 - 4 years): Free of charge

 

Car park

Park in Largo de São Francisco - free parking all year round. Map.

Sea Taxi from Faro

Maritime taxis depart from the quayside at Doors to the Sea to the desert island all year round.

 Map of the pier Map

Sea Taxi from Olhão

There are Sea Taxis departing from Olhão pier to the desert island all year round.

Price per journey for up to 5 passengers

  • Deserta island 50€

Night tax +5€. Baggage fee +10€, 15€ or 20€ depending on the item. Pay by cash or MBWay. Map of the pier Map

Businessman / Taxi / Telephone

  • Henrique Alexandre, "Rio Taxi/Vidamar", T. +351 917583621
  • Vergílio Alexandre, "Martaxi", T. +351 968012003
  • Eduardo Alexandre, "Martaxi", T. +351 967906663 / 918818301
  • Celestino Lopes, "Rio Taxi", T. +351 914828424
  • Taxi-Praia, "Taxi-Praia", T. +351 969114474
  • Décio Mendonça, "Taxiculatra", T. +351 964350877
  • David Lopes, "Amanhecer", T. +351 911586446
  • Eduardo Cavaco, "Taxis Formosa", T. +351 912552148 / 910451564
  • Wilson Mendonça, "Táki Tála", T. +351 969578257
  • José Filipe, "Minibuz", T. +351 960437299

Natural beauty

The island is a true natural paradise, with white sand dunes, crystal-clear waters and a rich biodiversity. Here lies Cape Santa Maria, the southernmost point of mainland Portugal.

Tranquillity

Deserta is a practically uninhabited island, which guarantees a quiet and secluded atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Restaurants

Although deserted, the island has an elegant restaurant, Estaminé, which is open all year round and the way to get there is by boat. Whether it's winter or summer, we recommend that you always make a reservation.

Stunning landscapes

The island's landscapes are simply breathtaking. The combination of dunes, sea and blue sky creates a unique and inspiring setting.

Wildlife watching

The island is an important habitat for several species of birds, such as the interrupted ringed plover and the common sandpiper. You can observe these birds in their natural habitat using binoculars. A true seabird sanctuary.

Physical activity

The island offers many opportunities for physical activity, such as hiking, trekking, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Nudism

Part of the island is dedicated to nudism, providing a more free and natural environment for those who practise it.

Timetables

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