In Portugal, and all over the world, the Blue Flag is a symbol of environmental excellence, safety, well-being and ecological awareness. This year 404 beaches were distinguished in the continental territory and among these is an Algarve beach that has been, year after year, recognized for their quality. In addition to adding compliments as one of the clearest beaches on the planet, it has free parking.
Only accessible by boat
Located on an island of the same name, Cabanas de Tavira Beach is located in front of the picturesque village of Cabanas, in the municipality of Tavira. One of its most distinct features is that it can only access it by boat. The Ria Formosa crossing is made on seasonal vessels that operate between April and October, on a quick route that takes less than five minutes.
The inhabitants of the fishing village have long claimed to build a pedestrian bridge to facilitate access to the beach. However, the project continues to realize. Until then, the crossing continues to have the cost of 1.50 euros per person (round trip), which is the only regular means to reach the island’s extensive beach.
Tranquility and nature in pure state
About seven kilometers long, Cabanas de Tavira beach offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Bathed by clear and generally calm waters, it can be an option for those who seek to escape the typical crowds of the bathing season. Unlike other busiest beaches in the region, such as the neighboring beach of Tavira Island, it remains more protected and quiet, even in the months with the highest influx.
The village of Cabanas, with just over a thousand residents, becomes during the summer a destination much sought after by national and foreign tourists. The history of the village dates back to the eighteenth century, when the first fishermen there built wooden huts to support tuna fishing, an activity that would profoundly mark the development of the community.
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A village with roots at sea
Tavira’s Cabanas Piscatory Past is still visible today in local identity. The village was born spontaneously, driven by the fishermen who found refuge there and livelihood, being currently integrated into the Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of the most important humid zones in Europe, classified as a protected area.
The small quay of the village is the starting point for the crossing to the island. Upon landing, visitors are ‘toasted’ with a natural scenario, where the extensive sand fuses with the blue of the sea and the green of the natural park. The warm waters, the cleaning of the place and the family environment make the beach a ‘refuge’ for those looking for tranquility, nature and bathing quality.
Infrastructure and Blue Flag
Cabanas beach has all the infrastructures required for the assignment of the Blue Flag: surveillance ensured during the bathing season, health facilities in good condition, frequent cleaning and environmental education initiatives.
It explains that visitors can park for free in the vicinity of the village before they cross, which facilitates the visit and contributes to the reduction of the environmental impact on the island.
Recognition that values the future
The blue flag, annually attributed to beaches, marinas and recreational vessels, is more than a quality symbol, as this seal represents the commitment of a community to sustainability. In Portugal, the program is coordinated by the Blue Flag Association of Europe (Abae), in articulation with several local, regional and national entities.
A place to preserve
It should be noted that the reward that Cabanas de Tavira Beach will boast in 2025 is an appeal to shared responsibility. It is up to all, from residents to visitors and authorities, to ensure this natural heritage, ensuring that it remains intact to future generations.
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