Ilha de Faro is a stunning 9 km sandy peninsula within the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Easily accessible by car or foot over a bridge from Faro, or by short ferry.

The ocean side offers open Atlantic conditions with Nortada winds blowing offshore — chop and waves possible. The lagoon side (Ria Formosa) provides flat, shallow water at high tide, excellent for beginners and foilers.

Praia de Faro is the main setup area. You can kite east down to Barrinha along miles of empty sand dunes — a true paradise with nothing but dunes, birds and nudists. The neighbouring Ilha Deserta (Barreta) is even more remote.

Wind: Nortada NW-N from April to October, typically 15-20 knots in the afternoon. South coast exposure means the thermal can be less reliable than at Lagos/Alvor.

Best season: April to September.