Ilha de Tavira is one of six barrier islands that makes up 18400 hectares of protected nature reserve along the Ria Formosa along with wetlands, mudflats and hundreds of species of plant and wildlife.

The island itself has a commercialised centre with wooden walkways and cafes, bar, restaurants as well as a camping area (no hotels on the island). I felt a bit like i'd arrived at a theme park but once you go thought this and on to the beach, its lovely. A blue flag beach, 11km of coastline, sun shades and sun beds to rent but plenty of sand to spread out a towel away from the hustle and bustle.

The island beach is only accessible by boat and there is a water taxi and ferry service that operates daily. During the summer tourist months the ferry runs from Tavira centre from the quay side near the indoor market. But in the offpeak months (even in May) you have to go to the Quatro Águas pier. (Don't be fooled by the ferry moored on the quay looking like it is waiting for passengers!)

The walk to the ferry felt long, it was probably 20 minutes of so but in the baking sun along deserted road and salt fields it felt a trek. I'd recommend getting the bus if you can work out the timetables.
Ferry Times: http://tavira.algarvetouristguide.com/beaches/tavira-island
#NationalPark #Beach

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Panoramic Studio Suite, 1 Bedroom, Sea View | Private kitchen | Full-size fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

"Loved the location, rooftop and kitchen facilities"

SAR 277 total

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25 Jun - 26 Jun

"Small rooms but very clean and coat effective"

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Recent reviews of Luz de Tavira hotels

5/5 Excellent

"Loved the fact it had a small kitchen in the room. Love loved the crisp white linen and comfortable bed. Everything I needed was well thought out. Sorry I couldn’t stay longer and enjoyed the comfort. The reception was wonderful very well informed also close to the train stain if you need to leave or arrive anytime. Around the corner takes you to plenty of restaurants and the marina. Will happily say there again."

A verified traveler stayed at Roots Hotel

Posted 1 day ago

5/5 Excellent

"Spotlessly clean and comfortable. Staff were very welcoming and helpful in recommending places to go in Olhao. Relaxing pool area. Location was good, just a short walk from the town and marina. We didn’t eat breakfast in the hotel as we felt that local cafes had more atmosphere. We really enjoyed Olhao and would choose the Cidade again. "

A verified traveler stayed at Hotel Cidade de Olhão

Posted 2 days ago