In the Algarve there is a little-known beach that stands out for a rare characteristic in Portugal: the temperature of the sea water. Praia da Barreta, located on Ilha Deserta, in Faro, is known for having some of the warmest waters in the country, attracting those who prefer to escape the usual thermal shock of Portuguese beaches.
According to Idealista, the water in this area can reach around 24 °C during the summer, an unusual value on the Portuguese coast. The beach is integrated into the Ria Formosa Natural Park and is only accessible by boat, which helps to preserve its peaceful environment. Among the locals, there are those who call it “the last wild beach in the Algarve”.
A calm haven in the heart of the Ria Formosa
Praia da Barreta is in a protected and sparsely urbanized area, which helps to keep the natural scenery practically intact. Far from the typical movement of many beaches in Rio Grande do Sul, the place is often sought after by visitors looking for silence and contact with nature.
Ilha Deserta, where this beach is located, extends for around 11 kilometers and is part of the system of five barrier islands that protect the Ria Formosa from the Atlantic Ocean. The absence of buildings close to the sand reinforces the feeling of isolation and environmental preservation.
During the summer months, the water temperature typically fluctuates between 20°C and 24°C. The same source describes the place as “a true paradise hidden in the Algarve” and highlights that “the hottest water in the country” is found here.
Natural sand and crystal clear waters
The landscape is marked by fine, golden sand that stretches for several kilometers. The sea has clear and relatively calm waters, while the typical vegetation of the region appears scattered along the dunes. This natural setting makes this “deserted” beach a suitable space for those who want to spend the day relaxing, walking along the sand or simply enjoying the sea with greater thermal comfort.
How to get to Deserta Island
Access to Praia da Barreta is exclusively by sea, from the city of Faro. During the summer there are regular ferries and also small boats for faster transport. Ferries depart from Cais da Porta Nova from 9:30 am and tickets cost around 5 euros per trip. For those who prefer a shorter crossing, there are fast transport boats that make the journey for around 10 euros.
During the journey it is possible to observe part of the biodiversity of the Ria Formosa. Birds such as terns, lambs and terns are frequently spotted along the trip.
A beach also known for naturism
In addition to the peaceful environment, Praia da Barreta has an authorized area for naturism. This area is mainly located on the western end of the island, where the human presence is even smaller, according to the source cited above. This characteristic reinforces the reserved and free environment that characterizes the island and attracts a public that seeks greater privacy.
A practically wild island
Unlike many coastal areas of the Algarve, Ilha Deserta has remained largely free of urbanization. This allows you to preserve the wild character of the landscape and offers an experience closer to nature. Even in the months of greatest tourist demand, the sand rarely reaches the capacity levels of other beaches in the region. The need to arrive by boat ends up acting as a natural filter for the number of visitors.
The island is also popular with those who enjoy hiking, bird watching or landscape photography. The natural light and open horizons make sunset one of the most popular times of the day.
What to pack for a day at the beach
As the island does not have typical bathing infrastructure, it is advisable to bring water, a hat and sunscreen to spend the day in comfort, according to the . Even so, there is a restaurant on the island that serves complete meals and allows you to have lunch with a view of the sea.
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