Praia da Ilha Deserta

I was planning on going to Faro beach which is nearer but I thought it might be crowded so I opted for Ilha Deserta and I'm so glad I did it was delightful and I certainly did feel like I had the place to myself and totally chilled out by the beautiful shoreline and tide. I had the company of Little Terns, Sabina's Gulls and just before I left dolphins.

I think I’ve just discovered my new favourite place in Portugal. 🏝️ Praia da Ilha Deserta is pure bliss — crystal-clear turquoise water, soft sand scattered with beautiful seashells, and not a single piece of rubbish in sight. Everything feels pristine and cared for, with plenty of bins around to keep it that way.

You can rent comfy sunbeds, and the on-site restaurant even offers takeaway drinks and food — perfect for enjoying right on the beach. It’s so easy to lose track of time here, you could happily spend the whole day soaking it all in. 🥰

The ferry is €5 one way, but remember to buy your return ticket at the kiosk. Tip: don’t make our mistake and book your return too early — you’ll want to stay longer than you think!

A truly stunning spot that’s absolutely worth a visit. 🌊✨

When you think of the quintessential beach experience, Praia da Ilha Deserta in the south of Portugal ticks all the boxes. I recently spent an entire day here, and it was nothing short of blissful. From the reasonable rental prices for umbrellas and chairs to the serene and scarcely populated beach, every aspect of this hidden gem contributes to a perfect day of relaxation and enjoyment.

One of the most appealing features of Praia da Ilha Deserta is its name, which translates to "Deserted Island Beach." True to its name, this beach offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and seclusion. Unlike many other beaches that are often overcrowded, this location remains relatively empty, even during peak seasons. This gives visitors the rare opportunity to enjoy the beach’s natural beauty without the usual hustle and bustle. For those seeking a peaceful retreat from the chaos of daily life, Praia da Ilha Deserta is an ideal choice.

The beach itself is a picture-perfect scene. The clear, turquoise waters gently lap against the soft, golden sand, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere. The panoramic view is nothing short of spectacular. As you lounge under the shade of an umbrella, the endless horizon and the rhythmic sound of the waves offer a meditative experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re an avid photographer looking to capture stunning landscapes or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, this beach provides a visual feast.

Renting amenities here is both convenient and affordable. The cost to rent an umbrella and chairs is quite reasonable, which is a significant advantage for those planning to spend the entire day at the beach. This thoughtful provision ensures that visitors can relax in comfort without worrying about bringing their own gear. The process is straightforward, and the staff is friendly and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience.

This place is amazing. Book more hours if it's a sunny day!! We booked 2-3 hours and it wasn't enough to eat and sunbathe.
We didn't book the restaurant in advance and we got in, but I did hear some people got caught without a reservation in the restaurant so perhaps book that- the restaurant is amazing- it looks like local people go to the island just for the restaurant. The food was delicious. The service was 5 star.
As we were at the beach off season all the umbrellas were available without paying but the seats were tied away. The weather was so hot, so we sat under an umbrella on a beach towel.
The water is steeply sloped but lovely.
We didn't have time to do the walk around and the beach so we chose the beach- so I recommend booking more hours - the place is not boring in the sun - it's paradise- moreeeeee!!!

Very nice beach for walking and tanning. Getting off from the boat onto the island might be a bit tricky for people with mobility problems and there are some steep stone stairs. Lots of beautiful seashells all along the beach. It is really a desert island, so don't expect shade or greenery. There is a nice restaurant with good AC if it gets too hot outside. I would recommend their coffee and ice cream.