Praia da Ilha de Tavira

Portugal, Portugal

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Praia da Ilha de Tavira, also known simply as Praia de Tavira, is a long, white‑sand beach on a barrier island in the Ria Formosa lagoon system, east of the town of Tavira in the eastern Algarve, close to the border with Spain. 

It sits on the Atlantic side of the island and is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the region, with fine, soft sand, calm, clear water, and a Blue Flag‑quality environment that makes it especially popular with families and sun‑seekers. Access is by small ferry or private boat from Tavira, with departures from the main town quay and from the Quatro Águas area, and the short crossing offers nice views of the lagoon, fishing boats, and salt pans.

Once on the island you walk through a pine woodland and campsite to reach the long beachfront, which has a concessioned area with sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, bars, lifeguards in summer, and a relaxed, spacious feel that rarely feels overcrowded despite its reputation.