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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Compare 4 Houseboats in Luz de Tavira with updated reviews, rates, and availability.

"A unique experience for a perfect escape. Wine was great and view was unbelievable. Communication with host was easy and reliable. Would do again in a heartbeat."

AED 1,011 total

includes taxes & fees

17 May - 18 May

AED 1,891 total

includes taxes & fees

17 May - 18 May

"We rented boat for 3 nights in October. Amazing location off quiet beach beautiful boat great hosts. Will stay again in spring."

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"Great location "

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers

"Very enjoyable stay in this hotel. Beautiful room in a perfect area. Staff very welcoming and friendly. Hotel located a 2 minute walk from the centre of the town and other bigger towns/cities are a short drive or taxi away. Would highly recommend this hotel and this town in general for anyone looking to have a quiet and relaxing holiday."

AED 389 total

includes taxes & fees

29 May - 30 May

2 outdoor pools, pool umbrellas, sun loungers

"Pool wasn’t available despite being advertised. Most guests were workmen who made a lot of noise at 5:30 am. Very dated and in need of a refurb. However, very clean, comfortable beds and has all the essentials. Staff were courteous and friendly. "

AED 306 total

includes taxes & fees

20 May - 21 May

Recent reviews of Luz de Tavira hotels

5/5 Excellent

"What a lovely smart clean happy hotel! Ideally situated near the bus and train stations, also very close to the Bone Chapel and just a short stroll to the heart of town and port. We loved our sunny south west balcony with the jacaranda tree outside and found the kitchen very useful. Didn’t expect our room to be kindly tidied and cleaned every day! It was great to be able to return to the pool/ garden area after a day’s sightseeing for a tasty complimentary hot drink from the machine. If only all hotels were like this! "

A verified traveler stayed at Roots Hotel

Posted 1 day ago

5/5 Excellent

Wonderful hotel heart of Faro

"From reception to housekeeping, the staff were excellent every time we had an interaction. The hotel was conveniently in the center of all the activity in Faro and the rooms were clean and well-kept. Some parts of the room appeared as if they needed some upgrading, but overall the entire stay was lovely. The breakfast buffet was excellent as were the steak restaurant and the roof top bar. Would definitely recommend this hotel."

A verified traveler stayed at AP Eva Senses

Posted 4 days ago