Vigo, tucked into Spain’s far northwest corner, is remote, wet, green, misty, and surrounded by water.
It’s perhaps the last place you’d expect to find islands with turquoise waters and white sand beaches. However, just a 45-minute boat ride away from Vigo’s city center are the Cíes Islands, part of the Unesco-recognized Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Often-cited examples of sustainable tourism and home to one of the loveliest beaches in the world, the Cíes Islands draw sun-seeking day-trippers and serious bird watchers alike; gulls, cormorants, terns, petrels, shearwaters, auks, and gannets reside on the islands.
Although the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage attracts hundreds of thousands of international visitors to Galicia every year, few explore other areas of the region. If a chance to get off the beaten track and try out some Galician food and wine isn’t enough of a draw, the Cíes Islands offer nature, active pursuits, fresh air, and, if you’re lucky with the weather, a bit of a tropical feel in this otherwise rainy corner of the world.
The islands—two of which, Monteagudo and Faro, are linked by a footbridge—can be visited easily as a day trip from Vigo or, during summer or Semana Santa, for an overnight stay. However, as a protected area, the Cíes Islands are subject to several regulations: visitors must request permission to visit in advance; there are no garbage cans on the islands, so anything taken in must be taken out; loud noise is restricted due to wildlife; removal of anything from the island is forbidden; feeding animals is prohibited; and the only form of accommodation is park-sanctioned tents or campsites.
Top Things to Do on the Cíes Islands
There is an information booth not far from the pier on Monteagudo Island, which provides details on activities and also rents kayaks and snorkeling equipment.
It’s worth noting that the weather on the Cíes Islands changes quickly; it was overcast and chilly during early April.
Go for a Refreshing Swim or Snorkel
During summer months, the Cíes Islands’ white sand beaches and clear waters are arguably their biggest draw. The Atlantic Ocean here typically boasts an average water temperature of 14.22°C (57.6°F), making a swim refreshing.
The obvious beach destination for many visitors is Praia de Rodas, located a short walk from the landing pier on Monteagudo Island. It’s the longest stretch of sand on the island and a great place to snorkel, home to octopus, mussels, crabs, and various fish species. For those seeking a more intimate beach experience, Praia de Nosa Señora at the southern end of Faro Island offers a secluded spot. Praia das Figueiras, a brief walk from the pier, is another hidden gem.
Follow the Islands’ Hiking Routes
If you prefer to keep things dry, the Cíes Islands are perfect for land-based activities. The islands feature four well-maintained walking routes. A popular choice is the 3.5km (2.1 mile) walk to Faro de Cíes, the highest point on Faro Island. The uphill route offers stunning views as you approach the lighthouse.
The panoramic vistas from the top include breathtaking views of a deep fjord-like bay and neighboring San Martiño Island. If you’re on a day trip, don’t miss this hike. A worthwhile side trip is to Faro de Porto, which is perched on an impressive cliff.
Take a Boat Trip
The Cíes Islands can also be accessed through a boat trip via sustainably-minded providers. Gathering friends and chartering a boat allows for swimming offshore in otherwise inaccessible areas and is the only means of visiting the third and southernmost island in the Cíes Archipelago, San Martiño.
What to Eat on the Cíes Islands
As part of a protected area, the Cíes Islands strive to maintain a low environmental footprint. However, food is an integral part of any visit.
At the pier, you can find a contemporary cafe/bar/restaurant offering moderate prices and a chance to enjoy local dishes and drinks while waiting for your boat.
The island campground, a short walk south from the pier, features a cafeteria with a menu that includes local delicacies like octopus. Additionally, a small grocery store is available for those who prefer self-catering.
For day-trippers, bringing food is advisable. You can stock up on local treats like queixo tetilla, empanadas, bread, sausages, and wine from regional supermarkets in Vigo, ensuring a delightful picnic on the island.
How to Get to the Cíes Islands
Visiting the Cíes Islands, whether for a day or overnight, requires some advance planning. The area limits daily visitors to 450 during most of the year and 1800 during peak season.
To visit, you’ll need permission from the Xunta de Galicia. Complete the necessary registration on their website up to 90 days in advance to receive a code required to purchase boat tickets. This process is free and the code is valid for two hours.
With your code, you can buy tickets from several ferry companies that operate daily trips to the islands, especially during summer. The ferry ride to the Cíes Islands takes approximately 45 minutes.
Where to Stay on the Cíes Islands
While the Cíes Islands can be explored year-round, overnight stays are only available during Semana Santa and summer months from May 15 to September 15. Visitors can rent tents or pitch their own, with facilities including a cafeteria, shop, toilets, and hot water showers.
