Rodas Beach Cíes Islands
A protected archipelago with world-renowned Rodas Beach, offering pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and stunning hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Rodas Beach Cíes Islands
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected archipelago with world-renowned Rodas Beach, offering pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and stunning hiking trails.
"Astonishing wonderful and godlike views. Water clear as crystal but super cold."
Book Ferry & Permit Early
Ferry tickets and Xunta permits sell out fast! Book online in advance. :ticket:
Pack Snacks Wisely
Aggressive seagulls love to steal food. Keep your snacks secure! :poultry_leg:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rodas Beach
Cíes Islands
Voted 'Best Beach in the World,' this crescent of white sand meets crystal-clear, albeit cold, turquoise waters.
+1
Lighthouse Route (Ruta del Faro)
Monte Faro
Hike to Monte Faro for breathtaking panoramic views of the islands and the Atlantic.
Figueiras Beach
Cíes Islands
A more secluded beach, known for its natural beauty and often less crowded than Rodas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ferry Tickets Early
Prepare for Cold Water & Seagulls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferry & Permit Early
Ferry tickets and Xunta permits sell out fast! Book online in advance. :ticket:
Pack Snacks Wisely
Aggressive seagulls love to steal food. Keep your snacks secure! :poultry_leg:
Embrace the Cold Water
The water is stunning but very cold. Enjoy short dips! :snowflake:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for hiking the trails and exploring the islands. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferry & Permit Early
Ferry tickets and Xunta permits sell out fast! Book online in advance. :ticket:
Pack Snacks Wisely
Aggressive seagulls love to steal food. Keep your snacks secure! :poultry_leg:
Embrace the Cold Water
The water is stunning but very cold. Enjoy short dips! :snowflake:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for hiking the trails and exploring the islands. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Own Umbrella
No umbrella or chair rentals available; bring your own if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cíes Islands, especially Rodas Beach, for their breathtaking, almost tropical beauty and crystal-clear waters, often describing it as a 'paradise.' The hiking trails offer stunning views, making it a perfect blend of beach relaxation and active exploration. However, many note the water is extremely cold, and aggressive seagulls can be a nuisance for food.
"How do I even begin. Astonishing wonderful and godlike views. Water clear as crystal but super cold. Very beautiful place and not crowded at all. And if you’re really looking for to act go to the other beach although it has waves that are pretty big. Again I wouldn’t swim for a long time here. You can camp, hike and so on. And the ferry there is quick simple but bumpy sometimes so if you get sea sick easily prepare. VERY aggressive seagulls. Took our pain au chocolate and a Cookie."
Nevo Dekel
"One of the first sights as you arrive to the Cies Islands by boat. A long strip of sandy beach. People often swim here but it is known that the waters here are very cold! A nice place to relax after you finish hiking the island."
Panayiotis Karkalas
"Wo derful beach, clear water, fine amd goldem sand. Excellent views"
Carmelo Perez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach the Cíes Islands is by ferry from Vigo, Cangas de Morrazo, or Moaña. The journey takes about 40 minutes. You'll need to book your ferry ticket in advance, which also includes the necessary permit from the Xunta de Galicia. +1
No, private vehicles are not allowed on the Cíes Islands. Access is exclusively by ferry.
Ferry prices typically start around €22.50 per person, but this can vary depending on the company and season. Booking online in advance is recommended.
The ferry ride can sometimes be bumpy, especially in rougher seas. If you are prone to seasickness, it's advisable to take precautions.
Ferry schedules vary by season, but they generally run throughout the day during the operational period. It's best to check the specific ferry company's website for the most up-to-date timings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need a permit from the Xunta de Galicia to visit the Cíes Islands. This permit is usually included when you book your ferry ticket with authorized companies.
The easiest way to get your permit is by booking your ferry ticket through an official operator, as they handle the permit application process for you.
While there isn't a separate entrance fee for the islands themselves, the cost of the ferry ticket is the primary expense for visiting.
It is highly recommended to book ferry tickets and permits in advance, as they often sell out, especially during peak season. Buying on the day might not be possible.
The Cíes Islands are typically open to visitors from Easter week through to October. Outside of these periods, access is restricted.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax on Rodas Beach, hike to the lighthouse for stunning views, explore other beaches like Figueiras, and enjoy the natural beauty of the national park.
Rodas Beach can get busy, especially during peak summer months. Visiting on weekdays or during shoulder seasons can offer a less crowded experience.
Yes, you can swim at Rodas Beach, but be prepared for very cold water temperatures.
No, there are no services for renting umbrellas or chairs on the Cíes Islands. Visitors need to bring their own if they wish to use them.
Many visitors enjoy hiking the well-marked trails, such as the one to the lighthouse, to experience the island's diverse landscapes and viewpoints.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few restaurants and a campsite on the islands that offer food services. However, options can be limited, so bringing some of your own snacks is a good idea.
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the islands. Just be mindful of the seagulls!
The available food options typically include seafood, traditional Spanish dishes, and basic snacks.
Prices for food on the islands can be higher than on the mainland due to the logistics of supplying the location.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find many beautiful spots to enjoy a picnic lunch with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the lighthouse trail, the sweeping crescent of Rodas Beach, and the clear turquoise waters are prime photography locations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and landscapes. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for beach shots.
Yes, Rodas Beach offers stunning natural beauty with its white sand and clear water, making it very photogenic. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected natural areas like the Cíes Islands to preserve the environment and wildlife. It's best to check local regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the islands.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key considerations for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as food options are limited and can be pricey.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or early autumn) when ferry prices might be slightly lower and crowds are thinner.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
The islands' status as a protected national park ensures a rich biodiversity, from unique plant life to abundant seabird colonies. +1 Tips for hikers: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Paradise of Cíes Islands
+1 This designation means the islands are preserved in their pristine state, offering visitors an unspoiled natural experience. The islands are renowned for their rich birdlife, including significant colonies of yellow-legged gulls and other seabirds. The landscape is characterized by dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and stunning beaches, making it a haven for nature lovers and hikers. Visitors are encouraged to respect the protected environment by staying on marked trails and not disturbing the wildlife. The islands' commitment to conservation is a key reason for their enduring beauty.
The clear, cold waters are a testament to the unpolluted marine ecosystem surrounding the archipelago. Key takeaway: The Cíes Islands are a protected natural park, so responsible tourism is essential to maintain their beauty for future generations.
Rodas Beach: A World-Renowned Gem
+1 It's a spectacular, long, crescent-shaped stretch of fine white sand that connects the islands of Monteagudo and O Faro. +1 The beach is backed by dunes and pine trees, offering a picturesque contrast to the hypnotic turquoise blue water. While visually stunning, the water at Rodas Beach is famously cold due to its Atlantic location.
Pro-tip: Even though it's a popular spot, visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons can provide a more serene experience on this world-famous beach.
Hiking and Exploration on Cíes Islands
This hike rewards you with panoramic vistas of the entire archipelago, the Ría de Vigo, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Other trails include the Monte Agudo route, which offers different perspectives of the islands, and paths leading to more secluded beaches like Figueiras.
These trails are generally well-maintained, but sturdy footwear is essential due to the uneven terrain. Remember: Always stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure your safety.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit