Hop On Hop Off 3 Islands: Deserta, Farol and Culatra

If you’re considering a day (or even just a few hours) exploring the islands around Faro, Portugal, this hop-on hop-off boat tour offers a convenient way to see three distinct spots: Ilha Deserta, Ilha do Farol, and Ilha da Culatra. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility, scenic views, and a taste of local island life without the hassle of organizing separate transport.

What we really like about this experience is that it offers a laid-back pace—you get to choose how long to stay at each island—and the value for money is quite reasonable, given you can hop around and explore at your leisure. Plus, the scenery along the way is truly something special. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that entry fees to some islands are extra, so it’s not all-inclusive, and that might bump up the overall cost if you plan to visit everything thoroughly.

This tour is perfect if you’re someone who enjoys relaxed sightseeing, nature, and local culture. It’s also a good fit for travelers with a flexible schedule who want to avoid rigid group tours and prefer to set their own rhythm on the islands.

Key Points

• Flexible 24-hour period allows you to explore islands at your own pace
• Multiple stops with scheduled boat pickups make planning easier
• Good value for the price, especially if you want to visit multiple islands
• Entry fees are extra for some locations, so budget accordingly
• Variety of island vibes: pristine Deserta, lively Culatra, and iconic Farol lighthouse
• Ideal for relaxed travelers who love nature, views, and local culture

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour Experience

This hop-on hop-off tour offers a straightforward way to get around some of the most interesting islands in the Ria Formosa region. We appreciate the simplicity of the setup: you meet at a central Faro location, and within a few minutes, you’re on your way. The boat schedule is fixed, but the ability to stay as long as you want on each island makes this flexible—no rushing from one spot to the next.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Ilha Deserta
We loved the idea that Deserta is the only uninhabited island among the five barrier islands. Its shape, like an arrow pointing south, makes for a dramatic backdrop as you arrive. This island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with a variety of wildlife—from crustaceans to chameleons—still thriving here.

Many reviews highlight the tranquility of Deserta. One traveler noted, “Such a beautiful experience,” and appreciated the friendly staff for making the visit smooth. The main attraction here is the Estaminé Restaurant, which feels like a hidden gem. It offers authentic local cuisine, fantastic panoramic views, and a peaceful setting that’s perfect for unwinding. Keep in mind, entrance to the island or restaurant isn’t included, so plan for that extra expense if you want to dine.

Stop 2: Ilha do Farol
Named after its iconic lighthouse—Santa Maria—Ilha do Farol has a small community that springs to life during holidays and weekends. The main draw is the lighthouse itself, which makes for a great photo backdrop and a symbol of the island.

The reviews suggest that the boat drivers are attentive, making sure everyone can easily board and disembark, even with the changing tides. Two hours might seem brief, but it’s enough to soak in the views and perhaps take a quick stroll around the lighthouse area.

Stop 3: Ilha da Culatra
This is the only island that’s inhabited year-round, giving it a more lively, community feel. You’ll find a bustling fishing port, a quaint church, and an island school. The pace here is slower, and it’s worth taking a walk the 30-minute trek to the beach if you’re craving sand between your toes.

Culatra’s charm is its authenticity—local homes, boats, and a small but vibrant community. From the reviews, many travelers enjoyed exploring the local life and scenery here, though a few mentioned that the main activity is relaxing on the beach—great for those wanting a peaceful escape, less ideal if you’re after adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of around $40, you get all taxes and fees covered—making it simple to budget. But, keep in mind that entry fees to the islands (like Deserta or Culatra) are extra, so if you plan to visit specific sites or the restaurant, those costs will add up.

Food and drinks are not included, so consider packing a picnic or grabbing a snack before you hop on. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to get yourself to the Faro meeting point, which is conveniently located near public transportation.

The Real Traveler Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers found this tour to be worth the effort. One said, “Very friendly and helpful staffs. A good way to go to all the three islands,” highlighting the ease and friendliness of the experience.

Many appreciated the flexibility—you can stay longer on your favorite island or hop back early if you’re ready. Some reviews pointed out that the beaches are the star attraction, with one saying, “Worth it for the beaches,” describing Deserta and Culatra beach walks as the highlights.

A few more critical voices mentioned that if your main goal isn’t beaches, or if you’re not into sunbathing, the trip might feel limited. For example, one reviewer said, “This was not an interesting trip for me,” emphasizing that the main activity is relaxing on the beach, which might not suit everyone.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The boat ride itself is smooth and well-organized, with scheduled pick-ups that allow you to plan your day. The tour caps at 10 travelers, making it more personal than large group excursions. Most travelers found the timing sufficient—each stop allows for a few hours, giving plenty of room to explore without feeling rushed.

The duration varies—from a quick two-hour visit to a full day if you choose. This flexibility is one of the tour’s strong points, especially for those who prefer a slow pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy relaxed island hopping, scenic views, and local culture, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid the hassle of arranging multiple transports or paying individual entry fees. It’s suited for travelers who love beaches, nature, and authentic small communities.

Keep in mind, it’s not a sightseeing tour packed with formal activities—more of a laid-back day to soak up the scenery and enjoy quiet moments. If you’re after a lively nightlife or structured excursions, this might not be your best pick.

Final Thoughts

This hop-on hop-off tour offers a simple, flexible way to explore some of the most interesting islands around Faro. The combination of scenic ferry rides, diverse island atmospheres, and the freedom to stay longer or shorter on each spot makes it a good choice for laid-back travelers.

The value for the price is solid, especially considering the stunning views and the chance to experience both uninhabited nature and local community life. The main thing to remember is that some attractions, like the island’s restaurants or certain sites, come with extra fees, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

Overall, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic day with the option to customize your experience, this tour does a fine job of delivering exactly that. It’s best for those who enjoy a slow pace, nature, and simple pleasures—perfect for a relaxing break from busy sightseeing schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 20 days ahead on average, ensuring you get your spot.

How long is the tour?
You can choose to spend around 2 hours on each island or extend your stay for the full 24 hours.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you might find options at Deserta’s Estaminé Restaurant or bring your own.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically designed as a family tour, the relaxed pace and nature focus make it suitable for most travelers, including those traveling with children comfortable around water and nature.

What’s the meeting point?
It’s at Cais das Portas do Mar in Faro, near public transportation.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Are the islands accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour details don’t specify accessibility features, so check locally if you have specific needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, offering full refund.

How much do extra fees cost?
Entry fees for Deserta, Culatra, or other sites aren’t included, so budget extra depending on what you plan to visit.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 10 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic way to see some of Portugal’s natural beauty and local life, this island-hopping tour is a straightforward, flexible choice that most travelers seem to enjoy and recommend.