22 Portugal Islands You Can Actually Visit (2026 Guide)
Published: 26 Nov 2025
For travelers searching for the best islands in Portugal, the journey often begins with images of dramatic cliffs, emerald lakes, and endless Atlantic horizons. Portugal’s islands feel worlds apart from the mainland, shaped by volcanoes, tides, and centuries of life at the ocean’s edge. Each island moves at its own pace, from quiet fishing villages and wild coastal paths to lively harbor towns and sunlit beaches.
Portuguese islands stretch far beyond a single destination. In the Atlantic, the Azores archipelago delivers raw nature, crater lakes, and misty mountain views that change by the hour. Madeira offers a softer, greener landscape with steep valleys, flower-filled hillsides, and mild weather throughout the year. Closer to home, islands near Lisbon and along the Algarve coast create easy escapes where ferries replace flights and sandy shores feel refreshingly simple.
This guide brings together islands in Portugal that invite exploration, rest, and connection with nature. Some reward long walks and quiet moments, others suit swimming, sailing, or short island breaks. Together, these islands off Portugal’s coast show why island travel remains one of the country’s most memorable experiences.
Table of Contents
The Madeira Archipelago – Best Islands Portugal in the Atlantic
Among the best islands Portugal travelers explore, the Madeira archipelago Portugal is one of the most distinctive island groups in the country. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese island group feels geographically and culturally different from mainland Portugal. Volcanic cliffs, deep blue waters, and protected reserves shape these islands off Portugal’s coast, creating landscapes that feel dramatic yet balanced. As part of the broader Portugal islands Atlantic region, Madeira combines accessible travel with areas preserved almost entirely for nature.
1. Madeira – One of the Best Islands Portugal Has to Offer
Madeira is the largest and most developed island in this Portugal archipelago and often ranks among the most popular Portuguese islands to visit. Known as The Floating Garden, the island blends rugged Atlantic coastlines with green valleys and mountain interiors. Funchal serves as the cultural and economic center, while inland areas reveal levada paths and the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Madeira shows how islands that belong to Portugal can balance tourism, local life, and long-term environmental care.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Walking levada trails through valleys and mountain tunnels
- Exploring Funchal’s historic streets and waterfront
- Visiting cliff viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic
- Hiking inside Laurissilva forest landscapes
2. Porto Santo – A Beach Escape Among the Best Islands Portugal Includes
Porto Santo stands apart from most Portuguese islands Atlantic travelers encounter. Unlike Madeira’s dramatic terrain, this island near Portugal’s main Atlantic routes is defined by its long golden sand beach and gentle slopes. Often described as Madeira’s quieter sibling, Porto Santo attracts visitors looking for simple coastal days rather than active sightseeing. Its calmer pace and open shoreline make it one of the Portugal islands to visit for rest-focused travel.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Relaxing on the long stretch of golden sand
- Swimming in calm Atlantic waters
- Taking slow coastal walks with open ocean views
- Enjoying peaceful evenings without crowds
3. Desertas Islands – Protected Nature Within the Portugal Islands Region
The Desertas Islands form a small, uninhabited archipelago Portugal protects strictly as part of its Atlantic conservation efforts. Located off Madeira’s coast, these Portuguese islands exist almost entirely as a wildlife sanctuary. They play a critical role in protecting the endangered Mediterranean monk seal and sensitive seabird habitats. Access remains limited to authorized boat tours, reinforcing their role among islands owned by Portugal primarily for preservation rather than tourism.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Viewing untouched cliffs and coastlines by boat
- Learning about monk seal protection programs
- Observing seabirds in natural nesting areas
- Experiencing a rare, fully protected island environment
4. Selvagens Islands – Best Islands Portugal Marine Reserve
Far south of Madeira, the Selvagens Islands represent one of the most protected Portuguese island groups in the Atlantic. These remote islands off Portugal’s wider maritime zone are designated as a No-Take marine reserve, meaning no fishing or resource extraction is allowed. As part of the Portugal islands Atlantic conservation network, access is restricted mainly to scientific research and special permissions. The Selvagens highlight how islands that belong to Portugal are preserved for future generations rather than developed.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Observing pristine marine life during authorized visits
- Learning about Atlantic marine conservation efforts
- Watching seabirds thrive without human disturbance
- Appreciating islands preserved in their natural state
The Azores Archipelago – Best Islands Portugal in the North Atlantic
The Azores archipelago represents some of the best islands Portugal has scattered across the North Atlantic. Located far from the mainland, this Portuguese island group feels shaped by volcanic forces, shifting weather, and deep ocean surroundings. Often described as one of the most dramatic Portugal islands Atlantic regions, the Azores offer crater lakes, lava fields, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs across nine main islands. Each island carries a distinct personality, making travelers often ask which Azores island to visit or which Azores island is the best for their travel style.
5. São Miguel Island, The Azores – Most Popular Azores Island
São Miguel is the largest island and the main gateway to the Azores, frequently considered the most popular Azores island. Known as The Green Island, it combines volcanic lakes, geothermal valleys, and rolling farmland. Sete Cidades showcases twin lakes inside a massive caldera, while Furnas brings hot springs and traditional Cozido das Furnas cooked using volcanic heat. Lagoa do Fogo adds high-altitude views that often sit above the clouds, making São Miguel one of the best places in the Azores for first-time visitors.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Walking around the Sete Cidades crater lakes
- Experiencing geothermal hot springs in Furnas
- Trying traditional Cozido das Furnas
- Viewing Lagoa do Fogo from mountain viewpoints
6. Terceira Island, The Azores – History-Rich Portuguese Island
Terceira blends volcanic origins with deep cultural history. Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage city, reflects centuries of maritime importance within the Portugal archipelago. Beyond the city, Algar do Carvão allows visitors to descend into a volcanic vent, revealing lava formations and underground chambers. Terceira appeals to travelers interested in culture, architecture, and geology within the Portuguese islands Atlantic region.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Exploring the streets of Angra do Heroísmo
- Descending into Algar do Carvão volcanic vent
- Visiting coastal forts and viewpoints
- Experiencing local festivals and traditions
7. Santa Maria Island, The Azores – Sunshine Island
Santa Maria stands apart from many Azores island names due to its drier climate and lighter landscapes. Often called The Sunshine Island, it features white sand beaches, rare among islands in Portugal’s Atlantic territory. Vila do Porto offers a relaxed town atmosphere, while coastal paths reveal layered rock formations and calm swimming spots. Santa Maria suits travelers looking for warmth and beach-focused days.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Swimming at rare white sand beaches
- Walking through Vila do Porto
- Exploring coastal rock formations
- Enjoying quieter summer conditions
8. Graciosa Island, The Azores – A Gentle Portugal Island
Graciosa lives up to its name with soft landscapes and quiet villages. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this island feels slower and more intimate than other islands near Portugal’s Atlantic routes. Furna do Enxofre, a sulfur cave beneath a volcanic dome, offers one of the Azores’ most unusual natural sights. Traditional windmills dot the countryside, reinforcing Graciosa’s calm character.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Visiting Furna do Enxofre sulfur cave
- Walking through peaceful rural villages
- Photographing traditional windmills
- Enjoying a slow, uncrowded island pace
9. Faial Island, The Azores – The Blue Island
Faial plays a central role among islands owned by Portugal in the Azores. Known as The Blue Island, it is famous for Horta Marina, where sailors from around the world leave painted murals marking their Atlantic crossings. Capelinhos Volcano adds a stark lunar landscape formed by a mid-20th-century eruption, showing how dynamic the Azores islands remain.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Walking along Horta Marina murals
- Exploring Capelinhos volcanic landscape
- Visiting volcanic interpretation centers
- Watching yachts arrive from across the Atlantic
10. Pico Island, The Azores – Mountain Island of Portugal
Pico Island is dominated by Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal and a defining feature among the best islands to visit in the Azores. The island’s volcanic vineyards, protected by UNESCO, show how locals adapted agriculture to lava rock terrain. Pico combines hiking, wine culture, and dramatic scenery, making it a favorite for active travelers.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Hiking Mount Pico
- Visiting UNESCO-listed volcanic vineyards
- Exploring lava stone wine cellars
- Enjoying panoramic Atlantic views
11. São Jorge Island, The Azores – Dramatic Island
Long and narrow, São Jorge stands out among Portuguese islands in the North Atlantic. Steep cliffs drop toward flat coastal fajãs formed by landslides and lava flows. These unique landscapes host small settlements and farmland. São Jorge cheese, aged and distinctive, adds culinary identity to the island.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Hiking trails overlooking coastal fajãs
- Visiting remote fajã villages
- Tasting traditional São Jorge cheese
- Photographing dramatic cliff formations
12. Flores Island, The Azores – Island of Flowers
Flores feels wild and remote, even by Azores standards. Waterfalls cascade down green cliffs, crater lakes fill volcanic basins, and nature dominates daily life. As part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Flores attracts travelers seeking untouched landscapes and minimal development within the Portugal islands Atlantic region.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Visiting waterfalls and crater lakes
- Exploring remote coastal viewpoints
- Walking through lush green valleys
- Experiencing true Atlantic isolation
13. Corvo Island, The Azores – Smallest Azores Island
Corvo is the smallest of the nine islands of the Azores and one of the least populated Portuguese islands. Its defining feature, the Caldeirão, forms a massive volcanic crater with lakes and pastureland inside. Limited access and few residents preserve Corvo’s quiet, isolated atmosphere.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Walking around the Caldeirão crater
- Enjoying uninterrupted Atlantic views
- Experiencing life on a tiny island
- Exploring one of Europe’s most isolated communities
14. Formigas Islets, The Azores – Protected Marine Zone
The Formigas Islets lie east of São Miguel and consist of small, uninhabited rocks and reefs. These islands off Portugal’s Atlantic zone are designated as a marine reserve. Traditional landings are not allowed, and visits usually occur through specialized diving or boat tours. The area highlights how Portugal islands also extend below the ocean surface through protected marine ecosystems.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Observing marine life on guided boat tours
- Diving in protected Atlantic waters
- Learning about marine conservation
- Viewing remote islets from the open sea
Islands of Continental Portugal – Best Islands Portugal Near the Mainland
While most people associate the best islands Portugal offers with the Atlantic archipelagos, several remarkable islands sit directly along the mainland coast and rivers. These Portugal islands are easier to reach and often fit seamlessly into road trips or city-based itineraries. From rugged offshore reserves to historic river islands, islands in continental Portugal show how island travel doesn’t always require flights or long crossings. For travelers curious about islands near Portugal’s mainland, these destinations provide variety, culture, and scenery in compact form.
15. Berlenga Grande – Best Islands Portugal Off the West Coast
Berlenga Grande is one of the most famous islands off Portugal’s coast and the largest island within the Berlengas archipelago. Located near Peniche, it is protected as a nature reserve, preserving cliffs, sea caves, and rich marine life. The São João Baptista fort stands dramatically on a rocky outcrop, connected to the main island by a narrow stone bridge. Regulated ferry access helps protect this Portuguese island while still allowing visitors to experience its natural and historic character.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Visiting the São João Baptista fort
- Exploring sea caves by boat or kayak
- Snorkeling in clear Atlantic waters
- Walking coastal trails with ocean views
16. Baleal Island – Best Islands Portugal for Surf Culture
Baleal Island sits just north of Peniche and shifts between peninsula and island depending on the tide. At high tide, water fully surrounds it, placing Baleal among the most unusual islands near Portugal’s western shoreline. Known worldwide for consistent surf conditions, Baleal attracts surfers year-round while maintaining a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Its beaches face multiple directions, offering waves and scenery shaped by Atlantic weather patterns.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Surfing or watching surfers along the coastline
- Walking between beaches as tides change
- Enjoying wide Atlantic sunset views
- Exploring rocky headlands and shoreline paths
17. Almourol Island – Best Islands Portugal Near Lisbon
Almourol Island rises from the Tagus River and is often considered one of the most striking islands near Lisbon. Dominated by a well-preserved 12th-century Templar Castle, the island feels isolated despite its inland location. Accessible only by boat, Almourol reflects medieval Portuguese history and river-based defense systems. Among islands that belong to Portugal, few combine history, symbolism, and setting as powerfully as this river island.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Viewing the Templar Castle from the river
- Taking a short boat ride to the island
- Photographing the castle at golden hour
- Learning about Portugal’s medieval past
The Islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park – Best Islands Portugal in the Algarve
Among the best islands Portugal offers for relaxed coastal travel, the islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park stand apart. Located along the Algarve coast, this protected lagoon system is formed by barrier islands that shelter calm waters on one side and open Atlantic beaches on the other. These Portugal islands feel slower and more local than many Atlantic destinations, shaped by fishing communities, dunes, and tidal rhythms. Easily reached by ferry or short boat rides, they represent some of the most accessible islands off Portugal’s southern coast.
18. Armona Island – Best Islands Portugal for Car-Free Beach Life
Armona Island is one of the most visited islands in Ria Formosa and a favorite Algarve island escape. Reached by ferry from Olhão, it features a long sandy strip separating calm lagoon waters from the Atlantic Ocean. The island’s car-free village adds to its laid-back atmosphere, with sandy paths, small cafés, and seasonal homes. Armona suits travelers looking for simplicity, swimming, and unhurried island days close to the mainland.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Swimming in calm lagoon waters
- Walking sandy paths through a car-free village
- Crossing the island from lagoon to ocean on foot
- Enjoying quiet beach sunsets
19. Culatra Island – Best Islands Portugal for Local Life
Culatra Island offers a more lived-in experience among the best islands Portugal includes in the Algarve. Home to active fishing communities, the island is divided mainly between Culatra village and Farol village near the lighthouse. Fresh seafood, working boats, and everyday island routines shape the atmosphere. Long, open beaches stretch away from the villages, rarely feeling crowded even in summer.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Eating fresh seafood in local restaurants
- Visiting the Farol lighthouse area
- Walking wide Atlantic-facing beaches
- Observing daily life in a fishing community
20. Tavira Island – Best Islands Portugal for Classic Algarve Beaches
Tavira Island is often considered the premier barrier island in the Algarve and one of the most popular Portugal islands to visit in the south. Accessible by ferry or small boat from Tavira, the island offers a long, pristine beach backed by dunes. Facilities remain well organized, including a campground and beach services, making Tavira Island suitable for both day trips and longer stays.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Relaxing on long, sandy beaches
- Swimming in clean Atlantic waters
- Staying overnight at the island campground
- Taking short boat trips from Tavira
21. Barreta (Deserta) Island – Best Islands Portugal for Untouched Beaches
Barreta Island, also known as Deserta Island, lives up to its name as the most secluded of the main Ria Formosa islands. Reached by boat from Faro, it remains largely undeveloped, with long stretches of wild sand and minimal structures. This island appeals to travelers who value space, quiet, and natural surroundings over amenities.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Walking along undeveloped beaches
- Observing birds and coastal wildlife
- Enjoying silence away from busy resorts
- Experiencing a raw Algarve island landscape
22. Cabanas Island – Best Islands Portugal Near Tavira
Cabanas Island is a narrow barrier island located opposite the village of Cabanas de Tavira. Reached by a short boat taxi, it is known for calm, clean waters and a relaxed beach atmosphere. The island’s compact size and gentle conditions make it especially popular for easy beach days and family-friendly swimming among islands near Tavira.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Taking a quick boat ride across the lagoon
- Swimming in shallow, calm waters
- Enjoying quiet beach time away from crowds
- Walking along the narrow island shoreline
Other Portugal Islands You Should Know – Best Islands Portugal Beyond the Main Routes
Beyond the well-known archipelagos, several smaller islands add depth to the story of the best islands Portugal has to offer. These locations may not support long stays, but they play an important role in understanding Portugal’s island geography. From coastal islands along the mainland to protected islets in the Azores and Madeira, these lesser-known places complete the picture of how many islands Portugal has and how diverse its island environments truly are.
A. Continental Portugal – Best Islands Portugal Along the Coast
Along the mainland, a handful of smaller islands sit just offshore and contribute to Portugal’s coastal identity. Ilha do Pessegueiro, located off the Alentejo coast, combines a small historic fort with surf-friendly waves and open Atlantic exposure. In the Algarve, Ilha do Ancão forms part of Praia do Ancão and blends seamlessly into dune systems near Faro. These islands off Portugal’s coast are often visited as short stops rather than full destinations, yet they remain important examples of mainland Portuguese islands.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Viewing coastal forts and historic ruins
- Watching surfers along exposed Atlantic shores
- Walking dune-backed beaches connected to the mainland
B. Azores Islets – Best Islands Portugal Natural Formations
Scattered around the Azores archipelago are several small islets that enhance the region’s natural appeal. Vila Franca do Campo Islet, located off São Miguel, is famous for its near-perfect circular lagoon, accessible seasonally for swimming. Near São Jorge, Topo Islet adds scenic value to the island’s eastern coastline. These formations help explain the volcanic origins of the Portuguese islands in the North Atlantic.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Swimming inside the circular lagoon at Vila Franca do Campo
- Viewing volcanic islets from coastal viewpoints
- Photographing dramatic Atlantic rock formations
C. Madeira Islets – Best Islands Portugal Conservation Zones
Around Madeira, several small islets form part of protected island groups. Ilhéu Chão, Ilhéu da Agostinha, and other nearby formations belong to the Desertas and Selvagens systems. These Portuguese islands are not designed for tourism but serve as critical habitats for seabirds and marine life. Their presence reinforces Madeira’s role within the Portugal islands Atlantic conservation network.
Things You’ll Love Doing
- Observing protected islets from the sea
- Learning about marine and bird conservation
- Appreciating untouched Atlantic landscapes
Portugal Islands FAQ – Quick Guide to Portuguese Islands
- Which Portugal islands should I visit if I only have a week?
Within one week, choose one main island. São Miguel or Terceira in the Azores work well, as does Madeira. On the mainland, Berlenga Grande or Almourol Island fit easily as short day trips.
- How do I travel between the Azores islands?
Most travel between Azores islands is by domestic flight with SATA Air Açores. Seasonal ferries operate between some islands but depend on weather conditions.
- How many days do I need for each Azores island?
São Miguel needs about four days, Terceira around three, Faial, Pico, and São Jorge about two each, while Flores or Corvo usually need one to two days.
- When is the best time to visit Portugal’s islands?
Late spring to early autumn offers the best weather, calmer seas, and more transport options across Portuguese islands.
- Do I need a car on the islands?
A rental car is recommended on most islands for flexibility. Smaller islands and Algarve barrier islands can often be explored on foot or by boat.
Final Thoughts: Start Planning Your Island Adventure
Portugal’s islands extend from quiet riverbanks to the open Atlantic, shaping landscapes that feel varied, grounded, and closely tied to nature. Volcanic peaks, calm lagoons, working fishing villages, and wide beaches sit side by side, each setting a different pace for travel. Some islands suit long walks and scenic viewpoints, others lean toward swimming, surfing, or slow coastal days, offering meaningful places to visit in Portugal beyond the mainland.
Plans may include exploring crater lakes, following coastal paths, or simply stepping away from busy routines. Portugal’s islands allow travel to unfold at a comfortable rhythm. This guide works as a starting point for choosing where to go next and finding an island that matches the kind of journey you want to experience.
