Visiting Areoso Islet is an easy plan if you prepare it well, but it is still a protected natural area in the middle of the Ría de Arousa. Here is the Xunta's official safety guidance — the same that comes with every authorization — made simple: tides, anchoring zones, the isthmus and who to call if something goes wrong.
If you book with a LEBBO operator, all of this is taken care of: the operator watches tide and wind, uses the correct channel and reschedules the trip if the sea is rough.
Tides: some days visits are simply not allowed
Areoso's emerged beach is small, and on very high tides it is almost completely covered by water. For safety, the Xunta does not allow visits on those days: the authorization portal blocks those dates automatically.
- On high tidal levels, no visits to the islet are authorized.
- If a date shows no spots, it may be the tide rather than the quota.
- Local operators already plan their departures around the tide.
The isthmus: the most fragile part of the islet
The central narrowing of the islet (the isthmus) is the area most affected by erosion, and its public use is restricted to prevent further damage. Use it only as a walking transit area; docking there is reserved for when conditions make the northern end unsafe.
Anchoring and docking: only in the marked areas
Boats must anchor in the indicated zone or buoys, and docking — with or without motor — happens in the areas marked for each type. Vessels must always enter and leave through the signposted route, with caution.
- Anchoring: only in the indicated zone or buoys.
- Docking: in the areas marked for each vessel type.
- Access and exit: through the channel between the green and red buoys.
Official recommendations before you go
- Minors should be accompanied by an adult.
- You visit at your own risk: the Administration is not liable for incidents.
- There are no services on the islet: bring water, sun protection and comfortable footwear.
- Check the wind and sea forecast the day before; when in doubt, choose a guided route.
Useful phone numbers
- Xunta information line: 012 from Galicia; +34 981 900 643 from elsewhere.
- Emergencies: 112.