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The route between Ilha do Farol and Ilha da Culatra, passing by the Hangares, is a unique experience that invites you to explore the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa. Come along!
Ilha do Farol is a true paradise hidden in the Ria Formosa, a unique combination of natural beauty, history and tranquillity that makes it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting the Algarve.
Accessible by regular boat trips from Faro or Olhão, with a small village called Farol, where the inhabitants mostly fish or produce bivalves in the Ria, this island is a true paradise, with a vast, almost deserted stretch of sand bathed by the calm, clear sea. Perfect for families with children.
Supervised
Yes
WC
Yes
Rental Shades
Yes
Bar or Restaurant
Yes
Accessible
No
You must buy your tickets in the boarding area. MAPA EMBARQUE “CAIS T”
You can pay in cash or by card.
Car park
No CAIS DAS PORTAS DO MAR em Faro poderá contactar diretamente os operadores marítimos com destino à Ilha do Farol.
The island has a long stretch of fine white sand, crystal-clear waters and an unspoilt natural environment. The combination of these characteristics creates a paradisiacal setting, perfect for relaxing.
The island's highlight is the emblematic Cabo de Santa Maria Lighthouse, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the region. It is possible to visit the lighthouse and climb to the top to enjoy the 360-degree view, provided you make arrangements with the lighthouse keeper.
As well as bathing in the sea and strolling along the beach, the island offers various other activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching and water sports.
The island has several restaurants and bars serving delicious local dishes, particularly seafood and fish, which is always fresh.
In short, Ilha do Farol is a complete destination, combining natural beauty, history, gastronomy and activities for all tastes. If you're looking for a place to relax, enjoy nature and spend fun and unforgettable moments, this is the perfect choice.
For those who don't know, between Praia do Farol and Praia da Culatra, there's a little hidden refuge: Praia dos Hangares, often called "no man's land".
The name "Hangares" dates back to a time when the area was used to anchor Portuguese Navy seaplanes. The hangars, structures that housed the aircraft, gave rise to the beach's name. Today, you can still find traces of this past, such as old bunkers and barbed wire fences.
Anyone who thinks that to get to the Hangares you have to take a good half-hour walk from Farol or Culatra beach is mistaken. There's something new: you can now take the ferry from the Real Marina Hotel in Olhão.
Supervised
No
WC
No
Rental Shades
No
Bar or Restaurant
No
Accessible
No
🛳️ Summer Route - June and September
| Olhão | Hangars | Lighthouse | Deserta |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:15* | 09:50* | 10:10* | - |
| 10:45 | 11:25 | 11:35 | 11:45 |
| 13:00 | - | Only Ida | - |
| 17:00 | 18:10 | 17:40 | 17:50 |
Times marked with an asterisk (*) are only available at weekends and require prior booking.
🛳️ Summer Route - July and August
| Olhão | Hangars | Lighthouse | Deserta |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:15 | 09:50 | 10:10 | - |
| 10:45 | 11:25 | 11:35 | 11:45 |
| 13:00 | - | Only Ida | - |
| 17:00 | 18:10 | 17:40 | 17:50 |
| 18:40 | 19:30 | 19:10 | - |
🛳️ Summer Route - October
| Olhão | Hangars | Lighthouse | Deserta |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10:45 | 11:25 | 11:35 | - |
| 13:00 | - | One way | - |
| 17:00 | 18:10 | 17:40 | - |
ℹ️ Note: Opening hours only available on Saturdays and Sundays.
| Return tickets | Hangars | Lighthouse | Deserta |
| Adults | 6.00€ | 7.00€ | 8.00€ |
| Children (up to 12 years old) | 4.00€ | 5.00€ | 6.00 |
Stops at Ilha do Farol exclusive to Real Marina guests or other Passeios Ria Formosa partners. Prior booking required. | |||
Its name comes from the hangars that housed seaplanes during the First World War, leaving a fascinating historical legacy. Traces of this past, such as bunkers and barbed wire fences, give the beach a mysterious and adventurous air.
The beach offers a long stretch of almost deserted sand with crystal-clear, calm waters, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the Ria Formosa.
Unlike other more popular beaches, Praia dos Hangares is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle.
The combination of the beach with the Ria Formosa and the sea view creates a stunning backdrop perfect for photos.
Culatra Island is a unique place where nature, culture and tradition meet. If you're looking for an authentic experience and want to learn a little more about the life of Algarve fishermen, Culatra is the perfect destination for you.
Only accessible by boat from Olhão or Faro, there are no motorised vehicles here. Its people live mainly from maritime activities and inhabit the island all year round. Even here you'll find pre-school to primary school education, a fire station, a medical centre, a people's house, a football pitch and a church. Yes, Culatra has a life!
Supervised
Yes
WC
Yes
Rental Shades
Yes
Bar or Restaurant
Yes
Accessible
No
Price per journey from Olhão
You must buy your tickets in the boarding area. MAPA BILHETEIRA
You can pay in cash or by card.
Car park
Unlike other barrier islands in the Ria Formosa that have become more touristy, Culatra retains its essence as a fishing village. The narrow streets, colourful houses and traditional boats create an authentic and charming atmosphere.
The island has long beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim or for relaxing in the sun. In addition, the Ria Formosa offers a rich biodiversity, with various species of birds and fish.
Fishing is the island's main economic activity and its culture is present in every aspect of local life. You can visit the fish market, where the fishermen unload the fresh catch, or savour the delicious fish dishes in the local restaurants.
The island offers a slower, quieter pace of life, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. It's the ideal place to relax, stroll along the charming streets and enjoy the scenery, winter or summer.
In addition to the beaches, the island offers various other activities, such as boat trips, fishing and bird watching.
The local cuisine is one of the island's highlights, with fresh and tasty dishes based on fish and shellfish.
Culatra is one of six European islands that the European Union has selected to be a pilot community for renewable energies through the Culatra 2030 - Sustainable Energy Community project.
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