Cíes Islands & Rodas Beach
Illas Cíes / Praia de Rodas
The jewel of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Rodas Beach, with its white sand and clear blue water, was once named one of the world's most beautiful beaches by The Guardian.
The Cíes Islands lie at the mouth of Vigo Bay and consist of North Island, Middle Island and South Island, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. North and Middle islands are linked by Rodas Beach and a lagoon. The fine white sand, pine woods and emerald water look like the Caribbean, but the water temperature is only about 15 to 18°C. Several trails cross the islands. The most classic is the climb to the Cíes Lighthouse, about 175 m above sea level, which takes about 2.5 hours round trip and offers views of sea-eroded cliffs and seabird colonies. There are also a bird-watching hide and a viewpoint at Nemiña headland. In summer, visitors are capped at about 1,800 per day. Before taking the ferry, you must apply for a free permit on the Galician government website, and only then buy your boat ticket. The crossing from Vigo port takes about 40 minutes. The islands have no shops, only restaurants and campsites, so bring water and sunscreen. Do not take sand or shells away.
Opening hours
Ferry runs about mid-May–Sep (also runs at Easter)
Nearby sights
- Cabo Home & Costa da Vela
- Baiona: Monterreal Fortress & Pinta Replica
- Samil Beach
- Museo do Mar de Galicia
- Ons Island
- Castrelos Park & Pazo Quiñones de León
- Castro Fortress Park
- Casco Vello & Rúa da Pescadería