Beaches in Olhão
Olhão itself doesn't have a beach as it is on the Ria Formosa lagoon system. Owing to the multitudes of migratory birds that that flock here on their southward journeys, the entire coastline has been declared a nature park (the Natural Park of Ria Formosa).
The coastline is dotted with islands and river inlets, and provides for interesting exploration. Island beaches are accessible by ferry from June to September. Hourly ferry services are available and the ferries for run from the quayside near the gardens at the eastern end of the market halls. Particularly notable are Ilha da Armona, which offers fine sands and cafes, and Ilha da Culatra. The islands offer ideal conditions for water activities like canoeing, windsurfing, diving and sailing.
Ilha da Culatra is surrounded by beautifully clear water, with many species of fish, so offers stunning diving and snorkelling. Ilha do Farol is not a separate ilha, but the area at the western end of Culatra where the lighthouse stands offers visitors a large expanse of sand and warm water.
