Tours & tickets
Praia da Ilha Deserta

Praia da Ilha Deserta: Our most recommended tours and activities

From Faro: 4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

From Faro: 4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

From Faro you can enjoy a catamaran tour in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Discover its 3 islands with 4 stops included. Swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters, explore a traditional fishing village and see how oysters are farmed. Start your tour by crossing the channels of the Ria Formosa to observe the seabirds feeding on the edges of the marshes. Enjoy your first stop for 45 minutes at Ilha Deserta and swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters. Then, head to the next stop, Ilha do Farol for another 45 minutes to discover the lighthouse and take pictures of the typical Algarve houses around it. Sail towards Ilha da Culatra for the third stop, a fishing community, for 2 hours of free time. Enjoy the option to have lunch at a traditional restaurant on the island where the main course varies between fresh fish and seafood. Finally, make your last stop where you can observe oyster farming in the Hangars. Admire the tide changes at the Ria Formosa on your return trip.

From Faro: Dolphin Watching & 2 Islands Tour

From Faro: Dolphin Watching & 2 Islands Tour

Along our Algarve Coast we have the Atlantic Ocean, where we can get away from Human life and discover the Wild Life. In this Combi-Tour we have the privilege of being able to watch dolphins and observe seabirds as well as discover 2 islands: Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol. The tour starting at 8h30 with the crossing of the Ria Formosa channels to Cabo de Santa Maria, which is described by the junction of the Waters. We sail in the Ocean to discover Dolphins and other similar species. Then we return to the Ria Formosa Natural Park where we stop at Ilha do Farol to be able to visit the small community around the Farol. We resume navigation to Ilha Deserta where you can bathe in its crystalline waters. Finally, we return to the starting point with a completely different scenario, as the beauty of the Ria Formosa changes according to the tides!

From Faro: 2-Island, 2-Stop Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

From Faro: 2-Island, 2-Stop Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

On this 3h- tour on a comfortable catamaran, sail through the most beautiful waters from Faro, always with professionals local guide. Discover the two main islands of Ilha Deserta, 11 kilometers of beach at the southernmost point of Portugal Condimental and Ilha do Farol, a former fishing island that has become a holiday pardisiacal island around the lighthouse. 1º Stop : Deserta Island, where you will make a 45 minute stop ,where you can swim or walk along the ocean ; 2ª Stop : Farol Island with another 45 minute stop to see the lighthouse and its community.  Make the most of the tour to observe our natural beauties, the resident birds and when the tide is low, the shellfish gatherers. The return to Faro is made with a different scenario due to the change in the tides.

Faro: Speed Boat Tour

Faro: Speed Boat Tour

Check in at the Faro Marina the skipper will tell you the details of your itinerary before departing. Strap on your life jackets and embark on your speed boat tour. Discover the beauty along the Ria Formosa Natural Park and make your way to a Desert Island, where you’ll have time to explore the desert beaches. After your time at the beach, continue to discover Ria Formosa’s wonders before heading back to the Faro Marina. Choose from a 1- or 2-hour shared tour, or upgrade your experience to a private 1-hour tour by selecting the relevant option when booking.

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental With Backpack and Extras

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental With Backpack and Extras

Rent a Kayak or a Stand Up Paddle , and explore the Algarve at your own pace. Take your board to the beach and paddle out to sea, or explore the coastline , the Ria Formosa and the hidden coves. Rent your Kayak or Stand Up Paddle , and take it wherever you want and whenever you want throughout the day. Visit incredible places and caves in the water and carry your most important materials inside the waterproof equipment. Choose to use the kayak alone or with another 3 persons maximum (depending on weight). Due to its practical backpack, you can take your kayak or paddleboard wherever you want, in your car or on foot. The backpack makes transport very easy and is very easy to inflate, only needing 5 minutes. In the Algarve, especially in summer, practically every day the conditions are excellent, with little wind and waves. A 20 liters waterproof bag and a cell phone waterproof bag are included. We have also the option of renting additional extras such as snorkelling masks and action cameras. On the day of rental, it is necessary to fill a statement of responsibility and leave a deposit of €150 in credit card or money for each kayak or sup , which is returned after the kayak or sup is returned.

Faro: Half Day Private Tour in Ria Formosa Natural Park

Faro: Half Day Private Tour in Ria Formosa Natural Park

Being on a Private Boat in Ria Formosa offers a magical experience combining natural beauty and tranquility. A private tour for up to 14 people allows exploring islands, wildlife spotting, and enjoying one of the Algarve's most stunning sunsets with loved ones. You can relax on the boat, go diving, go to the beach... forget about the clock and time! Bring your family, friends and let us surprise you with an unforgettable day of your vacations in Faro, Algarve. The price of the tour includes fuel, Skipper

Faro: Funtastic Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Faro: Funtastic Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Embark on a boat tour from Faro Marina in search of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, bluefin tunas, and even sharks. Enjoy the most beautiful and emotional interactions with these amazing animals. Depart from Faro Marina with a safety and legislation briefing. Dolphin watching is a regulated activity in Portugal. Cruise through Ria Formosa Natural Park, a saltwater estuary rich in birds, fish, and crustaceans, before going out to the open sea and start he search. Learn about the history and traditions of the park as you make your way to the Atlantic Ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, sea turtles, bluefin tunas, and even sharks.

Passeio Barco na Ria Formosa 5H

Passeio Barco na Ria Formosa 5H

On our longer tour, our guide will explain the barrier islands of Ria Formosa. We stop at Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol with stops of approximately 45 minutes to get to know the islands and be able to do some beach time. At Ilha da Culatra, the stop will be longer for lunch, where we will suggest the best restaurants and where you can also choose to have a picnic. On the way back, you will pass by another island, Ilha da Armona and by the fishing port of Olhão, finally arriving at Porto de Recreio. Don't forget the towel and have fun!

Olhão: Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental with Backpack and Extras

Olhão: Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental with Backpack and Extras

Rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the Algarve at your own pace. Take your board to the beach and paddle out to sea, or explore the coastline , the Ria Formosa and the hidden coves. Rent your board and take it wherever you want and whenever you want throughout the day. Visit incredible places underwater more quickly and carry your most important materials inside the waterproof equipment. Choose to use the stand-up paddleboard alone or with one other person (depending on weight). Due to its practical backpack, you can take your paddleboard wherever you want, in your car or on foot. The backpack makes transport very easy and is very easy to inflate, only needing 5 minutes. In the Algarve, especially in summer, practically every day the conditions are excellent, with little wind and waves. A 20 liters waterproof bag and a cell phone waterproof bag are included. We have also the option of renting additional extras such as snorkelling masks and aquatic action cameras. On the day of rental, it is necessary to fill out a liability waiver and leave a deposit of €150 for each board, which is returned after the board is returned. It is very important to use the material correctly, as well as rinse it in fresh water whenever possible before returning it.

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Top sights near Praia da Ilha Deserta

Praia da Ilha Deserta: Our most recommended tours and activities

From Faro: 4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

From Faro: 4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

From Faro you can enjoy a catamaran tour in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Discover its 3 islands with 4 stops included. Swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters, explore a traditional fishing village and see how oysters are farmed. Start your tour by crossing the channels of the Ria Formosa to observe the seabirds feeding on the edges of the marshes. Enjoy your first stop for 45 minutes at Ilha Deserta and swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters. Then, head to the next stop, Ilha do Farol for another 45 minutes to discover the lighthouse and take pictures of the typical Algarve houses around it. Sail towards Ilha da Culatra for the third stop, a fishing community, for 2 hours of free time. Enjoy the option to have lunch at a traditional restaurant on the island where the main course varies between fresh fish and seafood. Finally, make your last stop where you can observe oyster farming in the Hangars. Admire the tide changes at the Ria Formosa on your return trip.

From Faro: Dolphin Watching & 2 Islands Tour

From Faro: Dolphin Watching & 2 Islands Tour

Along our Algarve Coast we have the Atlantic Ocean, where we can get away from Human life and discover the Wild Life. In this Combi-Tour we have the privilege of being able to watch dolphins and observe seabirds as well as discover 2 islands: Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol. The tour starting at 8h30 with the crossing of the Ria Formosa channels to Cabo de Santa Maria, which is described by the junction of the Waters. We sail in the Ocean to discover Dolphins and other similar species. Then we return to the Ria Formosa Natural Park where we stop at Ilha do Farol to be able to visit the small community around the Farol. We resume navigation to Ilha Deserta where you can bathe in its crystalline waters. Finally, we return to the starting point with a completely different scenario, as the beauty of the Ria Formosa changes according to the tides!

From Faro: 2-Island, 2-Stop Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

From Faro: 2-Island, 2-Stop Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

On this 3h- tour on a comfortable catamaran, sail through the most beautiful waters from Faro, always with professionals local guide. Discover the two main islands of Ilha Deserta, 11 kilometers of beach at the southernmost point of Portugal Condimental and Ilha do Farol, a former fishing island that has become a holiday pardisiacal island around the lighthouse. 1º Stop : Deserta Island, where you will make a 45 minute stop ,where you can swim or walk along the ocean ; 2ª Stop : Farol Island with another 45 minute stop to see the lighthouse and its community.  Make the most of the tour to observe our natural beauties, the resident birds and when the tide is low, the shellfish gatherers. The return to Faro is made with a different scenario due to the change in the tides.

Faro: Speed Boat Tour

Faro: Speed Boat Tour

Check in at the Faro Marina the skipper will tell you the details of your itinerary before departing. Strap on your life jackets and embark on your speed boat tour. Discover the beauty along the Ria Formosa Natural Park and make your way to a Desert Island, where you’ll have time to explore the desert beaches. After your time at the beach, continue to discover Ria Formosa’s wonders before heading back to the Faro Marina. Choose from a 1- or 2-hour shared tour, or upgrade your experience to a private 1-hour tour by selecting the relevant option when booking.

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental With Backpack and Extras

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental With Backpack and Extras

Rent a Kayak or a Stand Up Paddle , and explore the Algarve at your own pace. Take your board to the beach and paddle out to sea, or explore the coastline , the Ria Formosa and the hidden coves. Rent your Kayak or Stand Up Paddle , and take it wherever you want and whenever you want throughout the day. Visit incredible places and caves in the water and carry your most important materials inside the waterproof equipment. Choose to use the kayak alone or with another 3 persons maximum (depending on weight). Due to its practical backpack, you can take your kayak or paddleboard wherever you want, in your car or on foot. The backpack makes transport very easy and is very easy to inflate, only needing 5 minutes. In the Algarve, especially in summer, practically every day the conditions are excellent, with little wind and waves. A 20 liters waterproof bag and a cell phone waterproof bag are included. We have also the option of renting additional extras such as snorkelling masks and action cameras. On the day of rental, it is necessary to fill a statement of responsibility and leave a deposit of €150 in credit card or money for each kayak or sup , which is returned after the kayak or sup is returned.

Faro: Half Day Private Tour in Ria Formosa Natural Park

Faro: Half Day Private Tour in Ria Formosa Natural Park

Being on a Private Boat in Ria Formosa offers a magical experience combining natural beauty and tranquility. A private tour for up to 14 people allows exploring islands, wildlife spotting, and enjoying one of the Algarve's most stunning sunsets with loved ones. You can relax on the boat, go diving, go to the beach... forget about the clock and time! Bring your family, friends and let us surprise you with an unforgettable day of your vacations in Faro, Algarve. The price of the tour includes fuel, Skipper

Faro: Funtastic Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Faro: Funtastic Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Embark on a boat tour from Faro Marina in search of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, bluefin tunas, and even sharks. Enjoy the most beautiful and emotional interactions with these amazing animals. Depart from Faro Marina with a safety and legislation briefing. Dolphin watching is a regulated activity in Portugal. Cruise through Ria Formosa Natural Park, a saltwater estuary rich in birds, fish, and crustaceans, before going out to the open sea and start he search. Learn about the history and traditions of the park as you make your way to the Atlantic Ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, sea turtles, bluefin tunas, and even sharks.

Passeio Barco na Ria Formosa 5H

Passeio Barco na Ria Formosa 5H

On our longer tour, our guide will explain the barrier islands of Ria Formosa. We stop at Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol with stops of approximately 45 minutes to get to know the islands and be able to do some beach time. At Ilha da Culatra, the stop will be longer for lunch, where we will suggest the best restaurants and where you can also choose to have a picnic. On the way back, you will pass by another island, Ilha da Armona and by the fishing port of Olhão, finally arriving at Porto de Recreio. Don't forget the towel and have fun!

Olhão: Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental with Backpack and Extras

Olhão: Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental with Backpack and Extras

Rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the Algarve at your own pace. Take your board to the beach and paddle out to sea, or explore the coastline , the Ria Formosa and the hidden coves. Rent your board and take it wherever you want and whenever you want throughout the day. Visit incredible places underwater more quickly and carry your most important materials inside the waterproof equipment. Choose to use the stand-up paddleboard alone or with one other person (depending on weight). Due to its practical backpack, you can take your paddleboard wherever you want, in your car or on foot. The backpack makes transport very easy and is very easy to inflate, only needing 5 minutes. In the Algarve, especially in summer, practically every day the conditions are excellent, with little wind and waves. A 20 liters waterproof bag and a cell phone waterproof bag are included. We have also the option of renting additional extras such as snorkelling masks and aquatic action cameras. On the day of rental, it is necessary to fill out a liability waiver and leave a deposit of €150 for each board, which is returned after the board is returned. It is very important to use the material correctly, as well as rinse it in fresh water whenever possible before returning it.

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What people are saying about Praia da Ilha Deserta

Overall rating

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
(1,147 reviews)
5
5 out of 5 stars

Our guide Odolf and his mentor were fantastic and full of enthusiasm. We first saw a group of about ten dolphins, which was already magical, but then he spotted a pod of about a hundred dolphins that put on a show for us. It was simply amazing. It was a mix of culture, a change of scenery, nature, and wildlife, and we even saw a sea turtle. We highly recommend it!

5
5 out of 5 stars

Very good tour with great and detailed explanation of the history of the place. Some stops could be longer to be able to also do a bit of farniente (for example the last stop we have 2h but if you eat there you lose time and one beach is 30 min away vs the other beach closer). Otherwise great tour.

5
5 out of 5 stars

Nuno was super kind and thoughtful, guiding us through beautiful scenery. We sailed with dolphins by our side and fell in love with their acrobatics. We stopped at a deserted island and then headed back. Well done! Highly recommended!!

5
5 out of 5 stars

We had a wonderful time! I wasn’t sure if this was a toddler friendly activity, but my 3 year old had the time of her life exploring different beaches and napping on the boat. It was perfect!

5
5 out of 5 stars

It was very nice activity and our guide Adolfo was amazing. He kept us engaged with stories and facts and took loads of photos for everyone. I definitely recommend this trip.