Ilha do Farol, Faro: How to Visit and What to Do Nearby

Ilha do Farol is a narrow barrier island in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, accessible by a 30- to 45-minute ferry from Faro's Old Town harbor or from Olhão. The island's name comes from the Cape of Santa Maria lighthouse, first lit in 1851 and still the tallest in the Algarve at 46 meters. Praia do Farol on the seaward side offers fine white sand and warm, sheltered swimming. A small fishing settlement of about 100 year-round residents occupies the western end of the island. is just one of many options in Faro. Major attractions worth considering include Alcoutim, Arco da Vila, and Barreta Island (Ilha Deserta).