Cabo de Santa Maria: A Serene Coastal Escape
Discover the tranquil beauty of Cabo de Santa Maria, a pristine beach paradise on Ilha da Barreta, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Nestled on the stunning Ilha da Barreta, Cabo de Santa Maria is a breathtaking tourist attraction in Faro, Portugal. Known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, this idyllic destination offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Visitors can soak up the sun, explore the surrounding landscapes, and enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem.
A brief summary to Cabo de Santa Maria
- Ilha da Barreta, Faro, 8005-556, PT
- +351918779155
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the beach before the crowds and find the best spots for sunbathing.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as amenities on the island are limited.
- Check the tide schedule to avoid being caught off guard by rising waters.
- Consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet from rocky areas in the water.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking sunsets and picturesque landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
If you are starting from Faro, drive towards the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Follow the signs to the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa and head towards the ferry terminal at Praia de Faro. Park your car in the designated parking area (note that parking fees may apply, typically around €1-€2 per hour). From Praia de Faro, you will need to take a ferry to Ilha da Barreta, where Cabo de Santa Maria is located.
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Ferry
At the ferry terminal at Praia de Faro, purchase a round-trip ferry ticket to Ilha da Barreta. The ferry service typically runs every hour and the cost is around €10 for a round trip. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Ilha da Barreta, follow the marked paths towards Cabo de Santa Maria, which is about a 1.5 km walk from the ferry dock.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transport, take a bus from Faro to Praia de Faro. Buses generally operate every 30 minutes and the journey takes around 30 minutes. After arriving at Praia de Faro, walk to the ferry terminal, purchase your ferry ticket to Ilha da Barreta, and proceed as described above.
Discover more about Cabo de Santa Maria
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ria Formosa
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Ria Formosa, a stunning national reserve in Faro, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Memorial dos Pescadores Farenses
6.9 km
Discover the Memorial dos Pescadores Farenses, a captivating sculpture honoring the fishermen of Faro, rich in culture and maritime history.
Fraternidade da Ordem Franciscana Secular de Faro
7.0 km
Experience serenity and historical charm at Fraternidade da Ordem Franciscana Secular de Faro, a spiritual haven steeped in Franciscan heritage.
Casa do Arco do Repouso - Muralhas de Faro
7.1 km
Discover the enchanting Casa do Arco do Repouso in Faro, where history meets culture amidst stunning architecture and vibrant local life.
Antiguo pozo de agua
7.1 km
Experience the historical charm of the Antiguo pozo de agua in Faro, a captivating landmark reflecting the region's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
The Old Town House @Faro Old Town & Rooftop
7.1 km
Explore the captivating Old Town of Faro while enjoying a comfortable and charming stay at The Old Town House, your self-catering haven.
Baptism Site of Maria
7.2 km
Explore the Baptism Site of Maria in Faro, a serene place of worship that reflects the spiritual heritage and tranquil beauty of Portugal.
Seminario Episcopal do algarve
7.3 km
Discover the Seminario Episcopal do Algarve, a stunning church in Faro showcasing exquisite architecture and deep historical significance for every traveler.
Porta Árabe
7.3 km
Explore Porta Árrabe in Faro, a captivating historical landmark that showcases the beauty and rich heritage of Portugal's past.
Algarve Tourism Office
7.3 km
Explore the Algarve region with expert guidance from the Algarve Tourism Office in Faro, your essential resource for travel planning.
Faro Free Walking Tours
7.3 km
Discover the hidden treasures of Faro with engaging storytelling on free walking tours, perfect for curious travelers exploring the Algarve.
Núcleo Museológico Santa Casa da Misericordia de Faro
7.3 km
Explore the rich history and culture of Faro at Núcleo Museológico Santa Casa da Misericórdia, where every artifact tells a story of the past.
Igreja da Misericórdia
7.3 km
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MASJID FARO CENTRAL
7.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Masjid Faro Central, a cultural gem in Faro, where spirituality and community intertwine amidst stunning architecture.
Jardim Manuel Bivar
7.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Boardwalk
0.3 km
Discover the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Faro's Boardwalk, an ideal hiking area along Portugal's stunning Algarve coastline.
Praia da Ilha Deserta
1.2 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Praia da Ilha Deserta, a serene beach paradise in the Algarve, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Farol de Barra Nova - Molhe E. - Extremo
1.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Farol de Barra Nova, a captivating lighthouse in Faro, Portugal, offering stunning ocean views and a rich maritime history.
Ilha da Barreta
2.2 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Ilha da Barreta, a serene island paradise located off the coast of Faro, Portugal, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Cabo de Santa Maria Lighthouse
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Cabo de Santa Maria Lighthouse in Faro, Portugal, a historical maritime beacon surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.
Farol da ilha do farol
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Faro's iconic Farol da Ilha do Farol, a must-visit destination in the Algarve.
Ilha do Farol
2.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich maritime culture of Ilha da Culatra, a hidden gem in the Algarve, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Praia da Ilha do Farol (Mar)
2.4 km
Experience serene relaxation at Praia da Ilha do Farol, a stunning beach in Portugal known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
Lighthouse Beach
2.5 km
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Barreta Island
3.5 km
Explore Barreta Island - A serene paradise in Portugal's Algarve, perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Hangares
3.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich culture of Hangares, a must-visit tourist attraction in Faro, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a coastal paradise in Faro, Portugal.
Ria Formosa Nature Park
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of Ria Formosa Nature Park in Faro, Portugal, a natural wonder waiting to be discovered.
Ilhote das Ratas
4.9 km
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Culatra Island
5.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante Estaminé
1.2 km
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Restaurante Alameda
7.1 km
Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Alameda in Faro – where every dish tells a story.
A Tasca do João
7.1 km
Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at A Tasca do João in Faro - where every dish tells a story.
Cantinho
7.1 km
Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Cantinho in Faro - a culinary gem offering fresh seafood and traditional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Cantinho da Ronha
7.1 km
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Vila Adentro
7.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Portugal at Vila Adentro – where culinary excellence meets artistic expression in the heart of Faro.
Epicur
7.2 km
Discover culinary delights at Epicur in Faro - where exceptional food meets fine wines in a charming setting.
Esboço
7.2 km
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ATO Restaurante
7.2 km
Discover ATO Restaurante: A delightful bistro in Faro offering organic seafood and vegetarian dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Restaurante l'Osteria - Faro
7.2 km
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8 Tapas
7.3 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at 8 Tapas in Faro - a vibrant restaurant serving delectable tapas in an inviting setting.
À do Pinto
7.3 km
Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at À do Pinto in Faro, where fresh seafood meets an extensive wine selection in a cozy atmosphere.
Afecto: Sabores Tradicionais Portugueses
7.3 km
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Chelsea Pizza & Pasta Restaurant
7.3 km
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Restaurante o Piteu
7.3 km
Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante o Piteu in Faro – a delightful culinary journey awaits every visitor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BazarShop
7.1 km
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BATALHA COLLECTION
7.3 km
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BD TOURISTER
7.3 km
Explore BD TOURISTER in Faro for unique, affordable souvenirs that capture the essence of Portugal's rich culture and heritage.
MANGO
7.3 km
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Casa Do Arco
7.3 km
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ANTONIO MANUEL Personal concept clothing store
7.3 km
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Oberon
7.3 km
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Pedemeia - Faro
7.3 km
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Galerias Santo António
7.3 km
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Matryoshka
7.3 km
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Palloram
7.3 km
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ALE-HOP Faro
7.3 km
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Boutique Milprendas
7.3 km
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Shop1one Faro
7.3 km
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Casa da Bli
7.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O Castelo
7.0 km
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Bago Wine Bar
7.1 km
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Varandas Bar
7.2 km
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LAB Terrace - Sunset Bar
7.2 km
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Columbus
7.4 km
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Anchor
7.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Anchor Pub in Faro, where vibrant nightlife and friendly locals create unforgettable experiences.
Boheme
7.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Faro at Boheme, a lively bar offering unique cocktails and live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Grains 864
7.6 km
Discover Grains 864 in Faro, a cozy bar offering an extensive beer selection and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
24 Bar Faro
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Faro at 24 Bar, where great drinks and lively music create unforgettable memories.
Piper's Irish Pub & Bar
7.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and authentic flavors of Ireland at Piper's Irish Pub & Bar in Faro, a must-visit for tourists seeking local culture.
Biblioteca
7.6 km
Discover Biblioteca in Faro, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection of wines and delicious tapas in a cozy atmosphere.
Eme lounge
7.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Eme Lounge in Faro, where delicious cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
Aperitivo
7.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and authentic flavors of Faro at Aperitivo, where culinary delights and crafted cocktails await.
Six Dancing Bar
7.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Faro at Six Dancing Bar, where dancing and drinks create unforgettable memories.
Senses - Cocktail & Wine Bar
7.6 km
Experience the perfect evening at Senses - Cocktail & Wine Bar, where exquisite drinks meet live music and stunning views in the heart of Faro.