What to Do and See in the Cíes Islands
Among all the natural wonders Galicia has to offer, the Cíes Islands are one you cannot miss. This archipelago, in the province of Pontevedra in the Vigo estuary, has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world — something you should not overlook. Here we tell you what to see in the Cíes Islands and much more.
They have been an official Nature Park since 1980 and, since 2002, are part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. To reach this paradise you must take a boat from the ports of Vigo, Baiona or Cangas.
The beauty of their beaches is unmatched. Although Spanish beaches usually bring to mind the Canary or Balearic Islands, the Cíes cannot be left out. The renowned British newspaper The Guardian even named Rodas the most beautiful beach in the world — leaving nothing to envy of Thai paradises or tropical islands. That recognition boosted its popularity and brought a great number of visitors to its shores.
How to get to the Cíes Islands
Before wondering what to see in the Cíes Islands, you first need to know how to reach the port of this archipelago. As a Nature Park, it has protections that prevent any urban development affecting its ecosystem, and the number of visitors is also limited.
Only 2,200 visitors per day can visit, and to control this number the Galician Government decided in 2018 to issue a special permit that must be presented to the ferry companies to buy a ticket to the Cíes. You can request the authorisation online.
The ferry companies sailing to the Cíes Islands are in the ports of Vigo, Cangas do Morrazo and Baiona. Depending on your travel itinerary you can choose whichever suits your plan best or is easiest for you to reach.
What to do in the Cíes Islands
As mentioned above, the natural landscapes are the main attraction of the Cíes Islands. There is plenty to see and do in this archipelago. Beyond enjoying the cool Atlantic beaches, there are many viewpoints with incredible panoramic views. It is also a great place for hiking and immersing yourself in nature.
If you enjoy camping you can stay overnight on the Cíes and watch an incredible sunrise. The only way to stay is by bringing your own tent, or you can rent one when you arrive. If that kind of adventure is not your thing, you can still make the most of your day by arriving early in the morning and sailing back in the late afternoon.
Discover the crystal-clear beaches of the Cíes
As you already know, the beaches are the main draw to see on the Cíes Islands, so do not miss the chance to enjoy their turquoise waters. It is worth noting that the water is really cold, but that is no obstacle to making the most of this unique occasion.
Besides the best-known ones such as Rodas, there are smaller, more intimate beaches like Figueiras, where nudism is even allowed.
Rodas Beach
Rodas Beach has earned many honours to be considered one of the best in the world. It is a must on your visit to the Cíes Islands: its white sand seems endless until it reaches a pine forest. Its shore is calm and conveys an incomparable sense of relaxation.
Get to know the lighthouses of the Cíes Islands
In your search for what to see in the Cíes Islands you will also find several lighthouse routes. You can complete the Cíes Lighthouse route — the yellow route — and combine it with the Faro da Porta route. Together they total 8.7 kilometres. This activity is thrilling for the incredible views you will come across.
At the start of the route you will see the famous Rodas Beach and the Lago dos Nenos, home to a unique ecosystem formed by the joining of the islands. On the way to the Cíes Lighthouse you can also stop at the Pedra da Campa, a rock carved by the strong wind, from where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama.
The final stretch is the most challenging because it begins to climb through fairly tight bends. The end is very rewarding: you reach a beautiful lighthouse dating from the 19th century, with views of the Vigo estuary and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Hiking in the Cíes Islands
Another attraction to enjoy in the Cíes Islands is hiking. There is nothing better to do by the beach than a relaxing walk. On the Cíes there are four routes you can take.
You can do the morning or afternoon routes and both will be equally pleasant. The starting point for the walk is next to the interpretation hut near the pier where the boats arrive.
