DK Travel : The Algarve : Eastern Region : Outdoor

Ilha da Armona

Popular with independent travellers, the beaches facing inland are served by bars and restaurants. A ferry from Olhão takes 15 minutes.
Ilha da Barreta

Boat departures from Faro’s Porta Nova wharf shuttle visitors to this “deserted island,” where wildlife can be observed. A bar-restaurant, O Estaminé, provides sustenance.
Ilha da Culatra

The beaches here enjoy splendid isolation, and nude sunbathing in the dunes is not uncommon. The ferry takes 45 minutes from Olhão.
Ilha de Faro

This long sandy spit is reached by turning right off the main road just before Faro International Airport and walking across the causeway. It can get crowded in summer with Faro residents.
Ilha de Fuseta

You can walk onto this island at low tide, while the waters of the lagoon provide a popular venue for windsurfers.
Ilha de Tavira

A huge offshore sandbank stretching 11 km (6 miles) west from Tavira, connected to land by a ferry from Quatro Águas. Alternatively, a mini railway can get you there from the resort of Pedras d’el Rei.
Praia de Cabanas

Less crowded than some of its neighbours, Cabanas’ pristine beaches lie in peaceful seclusion and are reached by continuing westwards along the shores of Praia de Manta Rota.
Praia de Manta Rota

Part of a sweep of golden sand that arches from Vila Real de Santo António to the tip of Praia de Cabanas. Access is via Manta Rota and Alagoas.
Praia do Ancão

A sublime beach opposite Quinta do Lago that narrows into a sand spit, the tip of which is the preserve of near-empty, tranquil dunes.
Praia do Farol

A beautiful sweep of sand on the bank of a long sandspit island. Farol can be reached by a 45-minute ferry ride from the Porta Nova wharf below Faro’s Old Town district. There are also departures from Olhão.