Tavira Island
how to get there, beaches and where to stay
Tavira Island

Tavira Island. Algarve Portugal © sergojpg – stock.adobe.com
Just south of the town of Tavira lies Ilha de Tavira, an island with beautiful beaches stretching over 11 kilometres. It forms part of the protected area of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Beaches on Tavira Island
The beaches on Tavira Island all hold a Blue Flag.
There are four of them: Praia da Terra Estreita, the Praia do Barril and the Praia do Homem Nu.
If you enjoy naturism, the western end of Praia do Barril is where it is officially allowed.
The whole shoreline is perfect for a gentle stroll. The area around the campsite is usually where most people gather, so if you are after a quiet, secluded day on the beach, that is the spot to avoid.
Tavira Island is considered an ideal destination for families in the Algarve, with basic facilities, restaurants, beach bars and toilets. There are lifeguards during the high season.

Quatro Águas, Tavira © sergojpg – stock.adobe.com
Pets of any kind are NOT allowed on the island.
Getting to Tavira Island
Access to the island is by a very short 5-minute ferry crossing, as barely a kilometre separates it from the town of Tavira.
You have two options: take the boat from Tavira , next to the fishing boats on Rua José Pires Padinha or head over to the area around Quatro Aquas , about 2 km from Tavira.
From Quatro Aquas boats run even during the low season.
More in beaches
Other pages from this section of the guide
The 10 best beaches
Our pick of the ten most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, from Praia Dona Ana in Lagos to Cacela Velha and Culatra Island in the east, with…
Praia da Rocha
Praia da Rocha, or "Rock Beach", in the Algarve is one of the most popular and most visited beaches around. Its clear, calm waters make it ideal for..
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha sits in the part of the Algarve known as Lagoa, and thanks to the staircase that separates it from the rest of the world it is..
Praia Dona Ana
Praia Dona Ana is one of the prettiest beaches in the Algarve, and indeed the world. Take a look at the photo, find out where it is and more.
Praia do Amado
Praia do Amado, with dark cliffs and hills as a backdrop, is one of the best beaches in the Algarve for surfing and other water spor..
Praia do Barranco das Canas
Praia do Barranco das Canas, also known as "German Beach", is one of the most popular in the Algarve. Here's what you'll find there
Ria Formosa Natural Park
Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of the main draws of the western Algarve. A must-see, its islands are home to some of the bea






