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What to see and do in A Illa de Arousa

What to see and do in A Illa de Arousa

A Illa de Arousa, the island in the Ría de Arousa linked to the mainland by a nearly 2 km bridge, combines calm beaches, the Carreirón Natural Park, kayak and boat trips to Areoso Islet and a unique seafaring atmosphere in Galicia.

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Highly recommended in A Illa de Arousa

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Aerial view of Areoso Islet with white-sand beaches and turquoise water, the kayak tour destination in the Ría de Arousa
Back on 1 Jun 2027
Kayaking

Kayak route to Areoso Islet

by Kayaks & Paddle Surf · A Illa de Arousa

Kayak route from Praia do Espiñeiro to Areoso Islet, a short, accessible crossing perfect for families, couples, or groups.

Areoso Islet4hMax. 92
Children

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€25.00/person

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Boat trip to Areoso Islet, Ría de Arousa
Back on 1 Jun 2027
Boat trips

Boat trip to Areoso Islet

by Kayaks & Paddle Surf · A Illa de Arousa

Enjoy a boat trip to Areoso Islet, with round-trip transfer and free time to discover its crystal-clear waters, white sand and unique natural surroundings.

Areoso Islet4hMax. 4
ChildrenBabies

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€20.00/person

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Boat trip to Pedregoso Islet, Ría de Arousa
Back on 1 Jun 2027
Boat trips

Boat trip to Pedregoso Islet

by Kayaks & Paddle Surf · A Illa de Arousa

Boat trip to Pedregoso Islet, including round-trip transfer and free time to enjoy peaceful coves, fine sandy beaches, and excellent snorkeling spots, with no permit required.

A Illa de Arousa4hMax. 4
ChildrenBabies

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€20.00/person

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More experiences in A Illa de Arousa

Kayak tour to Pedregoso Islet from A Illa de Arousa, Ría de Arousa
Back on 1 Jun 2027
Kayaking

Kayak route to Pedregoso Islet

by Kayaks & Paddle Surf · A Illa de Arousa

Kayak route to Pedregoso Islet, ideal for enjoying quiet coves, fine sand and perfect areas for snorkeling.

A Illa de Arousa4hMax. 92
Children

From

€20.00/person

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Pedal boat rental in A Illa de Arousa, Ría de Arousa
Back on 1 Jun 2027
Pedal boats

Pedal boat rental in A Illa de Arousa

by Kayaks & Paddle Surf · A Illa de Arousa

Pedal boat rental in A Illa de Arousa to enjoy the Ría de Arousa without rushing. A stable and easy-to-handle boat, no previous experience needed and perfect for children.

A Illa de Arousa1hMax. 25
ChildrenPets

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€20.00

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Paddle surf rental in A Illa de Arousa, Ría de Arousa
Back on 1 Jun 2027
Paddle surf

Paddle surf rental in A Illa de Arousa

by Kayaks & Paddle Surf · A Illa de Arousa

Paddle surf board rental for paddling in calm waters, ideal for beginners and for those looking for a relaxed activity.

A Illa de Arousa1hMax. 6
ChildrenPets

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€15.00

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A Illa de Arousa

Everything you need to know before visiting A Illa de Arousa

Kayaking and paddle surf in A Illa de Arousa

The sheltered waters of the ría make A Illa de Arousa a comfortable spot for kayaking and paddle surf, also for beginners. Guided routes and rentals leave from the island past beaches, mussel rafts and the nearby islets.

  • Outings in calm water, suitable to get started.
  • Hourly rental or guided routes with equipment and life jacket.
  • Check wind and tide before heading out.

Kayak or boat trip to Areoso Islet

A Illa de Arousa is the usual starting point for trips to Areoso Islet, one of the ría's main highlights. You can go by kayak or boat; if the activity includes landing, we handle your Xunta authorization for you, with no paperwork.

  • Kayak or boat depending on your level and time.
  • Landing on Areoso only with authorization (we process it).
  • There are also routes to the Pedregoso islet.
Check Areoso authorizations

Carreirón Natural Park

At the southern tip of the island, the Carreirón Natural Park protects salt marshes, a lagoon and pine woods, with signposted trails and viewpoints. It is one of the best places in the Ría de Arousa to walk and watch birds, especially in winter and during migrations.

  • Flat, well-signposted trails for everyone.
  • Birdwatching: herons, waders and water birds.
  • Respect the wildlife, plants and marked areas.

Beaches of A Illa de Arousa

The island has many fine-sand beaches with calm water, several sheltered from the wind. They are ideal for families, for a swim between activities or for paddle surf when the sea is calm.

  • Quiet beaches, several with Blue Flag in season.
  • Great for families and for learning paddle surf.
  • Bring water and shade, and respect the dunes.

Punta Cabalo lighthouse and scenic corners

The Punta Cabalo lighthouse, right by the sea and now a restaurant, is one of the most photographed spots on the island. Together with the walks among mussel rafts and the sunsets over the ría, it rounds out a visit that goes beyond watersports.

  • Views of the ría, the mussel rafts and the sunsets.
  • Great to combine with a bike ride around the island.
  • Book ahead if you want to eat at the lighthouse.

Getting there and when to visit

You reach the island by road, crossing the bridge from Vilanova de Arousa, with no need for a boat. Spring and summer are the best time for water activities; in high season it is worth booking ahead as demand rises.

  • Access by car or bike over the bridge; no ferry.
  • Best season for water sports: spring to early autumn.
  • Book ahead in July and August.

What can you do in A Illa de Arousa?

Kayaking, paddle surf, boat trips to Areoso and Pedregoso islets, walks and birdwatching in the Carreirón Natural Park, calm beaches and cycling around a flat, compact island.

How do you get to A Illa de Arousa?

By road, crossing the bridge that links the island with Vilanova de Arousa (nearly 2 km). No boat is needed: you can arrive by car, bike or bus.

Can you kayak to Areoso Islet from A Illa de Arousa?

Yes. A Illa de Arousa is the usual launch point for Areoso, by kayak or boat. If the activity includes landing, we process your Xunta authorization for you when you book, with no paperwork.

What is the Carreirón Natural Park?

A protected natural area in the south of the island, with salt marshes, a lagoon, pine woods and signposted trails. It is one of the best birdwatching spots in the Ría de Arousa.

Are there good beaches in A Illa de Arousa?

Yes, the island has many fine-sand beaches with calm water, several sheltered from the wind, ideal for families and for paddle surf when the sea is calm.

When is the best time to visit A Illa de Arousa?

For watersports, from spring to early autumn. Summer has the liveliest atmosphere; in July and August it is worth booking ahead.

Can you cycle around the island?

Yes. A Illa de Arousa is flat and compact, perfect for cycling. There are rentals on the island and it is a comfortable way to move between the beaches, Carreirón and the Punta Cabalo lighthouse.

Where can I book activities in A Illa de Arousa?

You can compare and book kayak, paddle surf, boat trips and bikes on this A Illa de Arousa page on LEBBO, directly with verified local operators.

Guides for this area