Discover the Cies Islands

Playa de Rodas is one of those spectacular Galician beaches you have to visit. It’s the longest beach in the Cies Archipelago, and it’s located between Illa de Monteagudo and Illa do Faro.

But it’s not a spectacular beach because of its length (1,300 meters). Rodas offers a picture-perfect view: a beautiful half-moon shape, white fine-grain sand, calm and crystal clear waters in shades of turquoise, and behind it dunes, a lagoon, a forest, and the mighty Atlantic.

The Cíes Islands are part of the Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, along with those of Ons and Cortegada (also in Pontevedra) and those of Sálvora (in A Coruña).

This archipelago is made up of three islands: San Martiño, to the south, and Monte do Faro (or Middle Island) and Monte Agudo (or North Island), which are joined by the sand bar of Playa de Rodas.

Access to the beach can only be done by boat, obtaining authorization from the National Park beforehand, since the number of daily visitors is limited. In high season, there’s a public transport service that connects the islands with different points on the Pontevedra coast. In low season, it’s possible to organize group visits with a guide by contacting the authorized shipping companies. It’s also possible to visit the Cíes by private boat, obtaining permission from the National Park to do so.

As it’s a protected area, certain activities, such as sport and underwater fishing, are prohibited, and others, such as diving, navigation and anchoring of boats, require obtaining a permit.

But precisely thanks to having this level of protection, Rodas beach is located in an environment of extraordinary natural wealth, with a great diversity of fauna and flora.

As soon as you arrive, from the pier, you will have a spectacular view of Rodas beach. The lifeguard post is located in that area.

Of course, enjoy this spectacular beach; walk, enjoy the views while sitting on its fine sand, and dare to take a dip! But beware, the water is COLD.

In addition to strolling along the beach and its surroundings, cross the walkway between Isla do Faro and Isla de Monteagudo to see O Lago (also known as Lago dos Nenos), a saltwater lagoon that serves as a refuge and breeding area for numerous species.

You can also follow some of the hiking trails to enjoy the views from the viewpoints and discover details of the history of the islands. All routes are signposted. In addition, guided tours are available.

On the islands there are several restaurants where you can have lunch overlooking the sea. There is also a campsite that offers both tents with beds and pitches (bear in mind that you must book in advance of your visit in order to spend the night on the islands).

• The daily limit in high season is 1600-1800 visitors, while in low season the daily limit is 250-450, so prior authorisation is required.
• If you plan to visit the islands using the transport services of the different shipping companies that operate in the area, you must have prior authorization from the Xunta de Galicia, since the different companies will ask you for the pre-reservation code of the authorization to be able to book your trip . You can request authorisation from the Xunta up to 90 days in advance on this website.
• The companies that take passengers to the islands depart from different points (Vigo, Baiona, Cangas), so you can adjust the visit to your preferences. They make regular departures in summer and Easter, and less frequently at other times of the year. Check availability and book in advance, especially in high season.
• If you want to navigate within the waters of the park or even anchor on the islands with a private boat, you will have to request a navigation permit and an anchor permit by filling out and submitting the corresponding forms to the park authority. You can find them here.
• It’s also necessary to get a permit for diving.
• Likewise, it’s possible to camp on the islands, booking a pre-installed tent or a pitch to bring your own tent. You can book here.
• Remember to bring sunscreen but also a jacket in case it gets cold or windy on the boat trip.
• Bring water, and keep in mind that there are no rubbish bins, so you should bring a bag to take back to land any waste you produce.
• The archipelago is accessible to people with reduced mobility, but we recommend that you check with the transport company in advance so that they inform you of any limitations on the date of your visit. The boats that make the journey to the islands can only be boarded with manual wheelchairs. On the beach, there is an access walkway and an amphibious chair, but there is no assisted swimming service.
• It is not allowed to access the islands with animals, except for guide dogs.
• Whichever type of visit you choose, be respectful of the environment and check the rules and restrictions of the park in advance. It’s the best way to know what to expect and make the most of your visit.

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