Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Berlenga Island, including how to get there, what to do, and why it’s worth the trip.
How to Get to Berlenga Island?
Berlenga Island is about 10 km off the coast of Peniche, a small town known for its beaches and surfing culture.
To reach the island, you’ll need to catch a ferry or boat from Peniche. The fast boat journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on ocean conditions, while the ferry ride is longer, around 45 minutes. We opted for the fast boat, and it exceeded our expectations. The ride was smooth; we stayed dry in the back of the boat and avoided seasickness as well. Ferry/boat services run from spring to early autumn (May to October).
Tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months, as they can sell out quickly. There are also private boat tours available for a more personalized experience.
What to See and Do in Berlenga Islands?
Explore the São João Baptista Fort
One of Berlenga Island’s highlights is the São João Baptista Fort, a 17th-century fortress perched dramatically on the rocks, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. The fort was built to defend the coast from invaders and remains an iconic landmark on the island. You can explore the fort’s history while taking in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Berlenga Lighthouse
Built in 1841, this historic lighthouse has been guiding ships through the dangerous Atlantic waters for over a century. The hike to the lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the ocean. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the beauty of this iconic landmark and enjoy the peaceful, rugged landscape of Berlenga Island!
Snorkeling and Diving
The crystal clear waters surrounding Berlenga Island are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island is a protected nature reserve, so the marine life here is diverse and abundant.
There are opportunities for both free diving and scuba diving around the Berlenga Islands. Take a look at the tours!
Explore the Caves and Elephant Rock!
Some tours offer the option to book an additional boat tour. This allows visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Berlengas Nature Reserve from the water and explore various caves. If the tide permits, the boats can even navigate through some of these fascinating caves.
Elephant rock , a large rock formation resembling an elephant, is another highlight of the boat tours. This natural wonder is best seen from the water and makes for some excellent photo opportunities.
Relax on Praia da Berlenga Grande
It’s the only easily accessible beach on Berlenga Island, renowned for its stunning beauty and crystal-clear waters. However, the beach is quite small, and it can become overcrowded when many visitors arrive on the island. As the afternoon progresses, the sun no longer shines on the beach, leaving it in the shade.
Hiking in the Berlenga Islands
For those who prefer to explore on land, Berlenga Island offers several hiking trails that wind through its rugged terrain. These trails lead to various viewpoints around the island, offering spectacular views of the ocean, cliffs, and surrounding landscapes.
On a boat tour to the caves, you can stop at the São João Baptista Fort, where you can hike up the hill for breathtaking views of the island. The trail continues to the lighthouse, then leads to Bairro dos Pescadores, concluding at the ferry stop. The hike takes about 30-40 minutes, starting with a brief uphill stretch before transitioning to flat terrain and downhill slopes. It’s an easy hike that you can do wearing flip-flops.
Where to Eat on Berlenga Island?
Berlenga Island has limited options for dining, but the few restaurants on the island offer delicious traditional Portuguese cuisine. The most popular option is Restaurante Mar e Sol, which serves fresh seafood caught by local fishermen and cooked in a variety of mouthwatering dishes.
Where to Stay on Berlenga Island?
Berlenga Island is a protected nature reserve with limited accommodation options. Most visitors come for a day trip from Peniche, but there are a few places to stay if you want to spend the night on the island. We didn’t spend a night there, but we thought it would be great to stay for a few nights and enjoy the island in the mornings and afternoons alone before the day trip tourists arrive.
Accommodation Options on Berlenga Island:
Berlenga Bed&Breakfast: This charming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with sea views. It’s located in the fishing village of Bairro dos Pescadores, just a short walk from the ferry stop.
Quartos Forte de São João: Located within the walls of the São João Baptista Fort, this unique accommodation option offers cozy dorm-style rooms with bunk beds. Guests also have access to a shared bathroom and kitchen facilities.
Camping Berlenga Island: For those who prefer a more outdoorsy experience, there is a campsite on Berlenga Island that offers basic amenities such as showers and toilets. You will need to bring your own tent and supplies, but the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean make it worth it.
Tips for Staying on Berlenga Island:
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. The island can get quite busy and rooms fill up quickly.
- Bring cash as there are no ATMs on the island.
- Pack light as you will need to carry your luggage from the ferry stop to your accommodation.
- Make sure to stock up on food and water before arriving on the island. There is only one small mini market that may have limited options.
- Respect the island’s natural environment and do not leave any trash behind. Berlenga Island is a protected nature reserve, and it’s important to help preserve its beauty.
- Take advantage of the peaceful mornings and evenings when most day-trip tourists have left the island. This is the perfect time to explore the hiking trails, relax on the beaches, and simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Why Berlenga Island Is Worth It?
Berlenga Island is a hidden paradise off Peniche’s coast, offering stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich wildlife. Visit the historic São João Baptista Fort, snorkel in vibrant marine reserves, hike scenic trails, and relax on the beach. With its natural beauty and quiet charm, Berlenga Island is an unforgettable escape.
