The Cies Islands: Visit an Ecotourism Gem in Spain
Photo by DepositPhotos.com
The ancient Romans were so struck by the beauty of the Cies Islands in the Galician region of Spain that they named the stunning archipelago the “Island of the Gods”. The pristine turquoise waters, sweeping hills, and verdant pine forests of the Cies Islands have wowed visitors for centuries. Local lore states that the notorious pirate Francis Drake even buried some treasure in the island’s most serene corners.
Despite a surge in popularity, the Cies Islands are a tremendous success story in the realm of ecotourism. Since 1980, the Cies Islands have been part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. From June-September, only 1,800 people are allowed to set foot on the Cies Islands each day. Visitors must apply for a special permit to access the island via ferry or chartered boat.
The best way to visit the Cies Islands is to depart from the nearby city of Vigo. If you have your heart set on exploring the Cies Islands, it is best to plan your trip at least 2 or 3 months in advance, since access is so limited. Authorization to visit the Cies Island is free, but a roundtrip ferry ticket can cost up to $150, depending on the season.
The Cies Islands are refreshingly pristine due to strict protections that prohibit loud noise, hotels, and excessive tourism. There are a handful of restaurants, a small campsite, and a cafeteria. Visitors are encouraged to bring food and supplies with them to the island. It is important to note that there are virtually no trash bins, so you must transport any food containers that you bring with you off the island.
Photo by DepositPhotos.com
Rodas Beach is considered the crown jewel of the the Cies Islands. Travelers can relax on a white sandy beach, swim in calm, crystal clear water that is ideal for snorkeling, and scan the waves for marine life such as octopus. Voted the best beach in the world by the British publication The Guardian, tranquil Rodas Beach is one of the most serene beach getaways imaginable.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Photo by depositphotos.com
Cies Islands visitors can also opt for a solo or guided hike, explore a bird habitat, or go kayaking in the island’s gentle surf. If you’re exhausted by loud, overpopulated beaches, consider a rejuvenating trip to the Cies Islands. Spending a day exploring an island that is more nature preserve than touristy cabana will revive you in a way that few other excursions will. Learn more about visiting from the official Spain tourism website.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Cíes Islands, Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, Spain
- Coordinates
- 42.21102, -8.90403
- Access
- For public ferry visits during Easter and May 15–September 15, obtain Xunta authorization before buying an authorized carrier’s ticket; daily places are capped. Outside that period, visits are limited to organized, accredited guided groups. Private boats require separate navigation and anchoring permits.
- Best season
- Regular ferry high season: Easter and May 15–September 15; guided-group arrangements apply outside this period
- Location checked
- 2026-09-25
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-25
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