Did you know you can sleep overnight on a tiny Portuguese island that has been uninhabited for the last 500 years and is full of stories to tell? We did just that! This year, my family and I decided to explore a bit more of our new homeland in Portugal, and Berlengas has been on our bucket list for the longest time. I’d heard about it from several people, but it sounded complicated… you have to take a ferry, it’s only open in the summer, etc. 

Let me tell you, it’s more than words can describe – such a unique experience, family-friendly, and peaceful once the day trippers leave. We’re already planning our next day trip to show family, but waking up with that view is something you should absolutely experience for yourself.

The following is what you should know before visiting the magical Berlengas Islands- a hidden gem location that not a lot of tourists know about!

Where Is Berlengas Island Located?

These stunning islands (Berlenga Grande and the smaller Estelas and Farilhões islets) are perched about 10km off the coast of Peniche, a charming fishing town in central Portugal. Berlenga Grande, the star of the show and the only island open to visitors, is the largest in this small group of islands that make up the archipelago.

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How To Get to Berlengas Grande Island

We drove to Peniche from our house in Lisbon. The drive took us about 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) of scenic Portuguese countryside.  Going between cities, and even within Lisbon, often involves a toll road.  These are extremely common in Europe and can get a bit pricey. Our drive to Peniche cost us about 12€ each way.  However, the roads are smooth and boast great gas stations with restaurant-style eating options, playgrounds, bathrooms, and more.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lisbon to Peniche.  There’s a very affordable bus option from Lisbon to Peniche. It’ll set you back about 4 euros per person one way, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. Not bad for a budget-friendly adventure, right?

You can also hire a private tour to get you to Berlengas!  Sit back and relax as the hassle of transportation is taken care of by someone else. 

Once in Peniche, we found plenty of parking at the marina where the boats to Berlengas depart. We went in the second week of September, the end of the season, and slower than the summer months, so we didn’t have trouble finding a good spot. 

Pro tip: If you are going in peak season (July – August), arrive early to snag a good parking spot if you are driving a car. 

From Peniche’s harbor, you’ll board a ferry for a thrilling 30-45 minute ride to Berlenga Grande.  When we went, the waves were massive and barf bags were readily available!  However, keeping your eyes on the horizon, a tip from the boat staff, kept everyone safe and vomit-free.

When Is the Best Time of Year To Visit Berlengas, Portugal?

The Berlengas Islands are only open to visitors from March to mid-September. Why? Well, these islands are a big deal for seabirds. They use the other months for nesting, and we humans need to respect that, right?

Also, if you’ve never visited Portugal in winter, it can be stunningly beautiful or windy, rainy, and cloudy.  I personally wouldn’t want to go to an island during the winter in case of bad weather.  Berlengas Grande has hardly any vegetation on the top, which is flat like a plateau.  It would be totally exposed to high winds and could be quite dangerous in bad weather!  The steep stone stairs would also be very slick and dangerous in the rainy winters.

Pro tip: If you’re after the warmest weather (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), aim for July or August. But remember, that’s also when it’s busiest. We went in early September, which was perfect – warm enough for swimming but not too crowded.  If you can swing September, I’d recommend it!  The weather might not be quite as warm, but the lack of people on the beach (we had it to ourselves completely for nearly an hour as the sun set) was magical.

How To Prepare To Visit Berlengas, Portugal

Berlengas Passes

First things first, you need to know that Berlenga Grande has a daily limit of 550 visitors. This helps keep this natural wonderland… well, natural! So, make sure you book your pass in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak season.  A fee for not having one can result in a fine of up to 500€.  We were never asked for ours, but better safe than sorry!

How To Get Passes to Berlengas Islands

1. Create an Account: Head over to the official Berlengas Nature Reserve website, and create an account. It’s quick and easy.
2. Once you’re logged in, you can book your passes. Each ticket is around 2.55€ . I know what you’re thinking – “That’s it?” Yep, that’s it! It’s a small price to pay for preserving such a beautiful place. You can pay for your passes using one of two options: Reference MB (limited to Portuguese bank accounts and may take up to 24 hours) or bank transfer (issued immediately). We chose bank transfer, and it was simple and fast!

Tips:

• Book in advance: And I mean way in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak season (July and August). 
• Make booking these passes the first thing you do when you start planning your trip.
• Here’s a heads up – if you show up without a pass, you might face a fine. 

Tours on Berlengas

Alright, adventure seekers, let’s talk tours! While you could theoretically go it alone, for your first Berlengas experience, I highly recommend booking a tour. 

Day Tours to Berlengas: The Popular Choice

Most visitors opt for day tours, and it’s easy to see why. They’re convenient, comprehensive, and give you a taste of island life without committing to an overnight stay. Here’s what you can expect:

• Duration: Typically 4-6 hours – perfect for those “I want to see everything but still make it back home and relax” types!
• What’s Included: Most tours cover:
  • Round-trip boat transfer from Peniche
  • A guided tour of the island’s highlights
  • The famous cave tour.  The Blue Cave is really cool!  Our boat went all the way inside and the crystal clear waters make it amazing to see.  You’ll also go through the island itself through one of the various openings.
• Flexibility: Many tour operators offer different packages. Some might include:
  • Snorkeling gear rental
  • Kayaking excursions
  • Lunch at the island’s only restaurant (a true local experience!)
• Convenience: No need to worry about logistics. Just show up, and let your guide handle the rest!
• Cost: Prices usually range from €30 to €60 per person, depending on what’s included.

Top Tours

1. Glass-Bottom Boat Cave Adventure: Guys, you won’t believe this – we’re talking about a boat ride where you can actually see what’s happening under the water! I never thought I’d be peeking at fish through the floor of a boat, but here we are in Berlengas. We’ll cruise around the island’s caves and all the cool spots, and let me tell you, the underwater views are out of this world. It’s like being in an aquarium but way more exciting!
   
2. Snorkel and Explore Package: You get the round trip to Berlengas (which, by the way, is an adventure in itself), plus this tour takes you cave-hopping. You can also opt for a snorkel kit to use on your own! I’m talking mask, tube, fins, the works. Fair warning though, that water can be chilly. You can pay an extra €10 for a wetsuit.
   
3. Boat, Cave and Hiking:  This one kicks off with a glass-bottom boat ride to Berlengas – trust me, it’s as cool as it sounds. You’ll get to ooh and aah at the caves and then switch gears with a walk around the island.

Pro Tip: Book your tour at least a few days in advance, especially during peak season. These tours can fill up pretty quickly.

Overnight Stay on Berlengas: For the True Island Lovers

Now, if you’re like us and want to really soak in those island vibes, consider staying overnight. I’s a whole different ball game!

• Duration: Usually two days and one night, giving you ample time to explore every nook and cranny of Berlenga Grande.
• Accommodation Options:
  • Camping: For the adventurous souls. Bring your tent, gear, food and water.
  • Hostel in the Fort: This is what we did, and oh boy, was it an experience! Bring your own sleeping bag, water, and food.  Sleeping in a 17th-century fort? How cool is that?
  • Staying in the hotel – Berlenga Bed & Breakfast 
• What to Expect:
  • More time for hiking and exploring at your own pace.  Once the island day visitors leave, it gets nice and peaceful!  I loved seeing the island in both the day and the night and feeling like we were almost there by ourselves.
  • Breathtaking sunsets and sunrises (Instagram, get ready!)
  • Stargazing like you’ve never seen before (zero light pollution, but depends on the clouds of course).
• Booking: This is where it gets tricky. Overnight spots are limited and book up months in advance. If you’re eyeing an overnight stay, start planning early.
• Cost: Varies widely depending on your choice of accommodation, but expect to pay anywhere from €70 to €130 per room per night. We paid around €230 for all of us 7 in the Fort.
• Contact: 
  • For camping: campismo.berlenga@cm-peniche.pt
  • For The Fort: berlengareservasforte@gmail.com
  • For Berlenga Bed & Breakfast: berlengabedbreakfast@gmail.com

Pro Tip: If you’re doing an overnight stay, pack some cards or a good book.  We brought a tablet, downloaded movie in advance, and snuggled up for a family movie night.

Things To Do on Berlengas

Alright, adventure seekers! Berlengas might be small, but don’t let its size fool you. This tiny island packs a punch when it comes to activities. From scenic hikes to underwater explorations, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top things to do in this Portuguese paradise!

1. Walk Berlengas Trails

Lace up those hiking boots! The trails here are absolutely gorgeous, and trust me, your camera reel feed will thank you.

• Lighthouse Trail: This is the most popular route, taking you to the iconic Berlengas Lighthouse. It’s about 1.5 km long and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic. We saw puffins nesting on the cliffs – talk about a National Geographic moment!
• Fisherman’s Trail: A bit more challenging but oh-so-worth-it. This trail takes you along the island’s rugged coastline. Pro tip: Bring binoculars! We spotted dolphins playing in the distance.
• Fort Trail: This one leads to the 17th-century Fort of São João Baptista. History buffs, this one’s for you!  Caution on the stairs down to and up from the fort.  They are a bit sketchy.

Remember, wear sturdy shoes and bring water. The terrain can be a bit rocky, but the views? Absolutely priceless. Our kids had a blast being explorers.

Pro tip: The island is basically a plateau, meaning you’ll go straight up some stairs to get on top and then it is relatively flat.  It’s a burner getting up, but not bad once you’re there.  Watch kids around the edges, of course, and be sure to take in a sunset or sunrise if you can.

2. Boat Trip To Visit Caves

Does Portugal have sea caves? You bet it does! And Berlengas has some of the most stunning ones I’ve ever seen.

We took a 30-minute guided tour on a glass-bottom boat, and the kids loved seeing the rocks and fish underneath. Here’s what to expect:

• Crystal Clear Waters: The water is so clear you can see fish swimming beneath you. It’s like a real-life aquarium!  You can even see them while hiking.
• Impressive Rock Formations: Keep your eyes peeled for the famous “Elephant Rock.” It looks exactly like it sounds!

Pro tip: If you’re prone to seasickness, take some medication before the trip. The waters can get a bit choppy.

Swimming at the Beach

Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro is small but perfect for a refreshing moment. 

• Crystal Clear Water: The water is so clear you can see your toes wiggling in the sand.
• Refreshing Dip: Just be prepared – it’s the Atlantic, so it’s a bit chilly! We are used to this living in Portugal, but it can be a bit shocking at first.
• Perfect for Snorkeling: Bring your snorkel gear! We saw colorful fish darting around the rocks.

During peak season, it can get a bit crowded. But hey, that’s just more friends to share your sandcastle-building skills with, right?  Note that the cliffs are not stable and the beach area is sectioned off around the edges to avoid accidents.

4. Visit the Fort of São João Baptista

This 17th-century fort is like stepping back in time. It’s connected to the main island by a small bridge that’s an adventure to cross on its own.  Be sure to hold hands with the littles.

• Rich History. Originally built to fend off pirates.
• Panoramic Views. Climb to the top for a 360-degree view of the island and ocean. Seeing the crystal clear water and the fish swimming all the way from the roof is amazing!
• Unique Overnight Stay. If you’re lucky, you might snag a spot to sleep in the fort. Talk about a night to remember!  Even if you don’t spend the night like we did, you can glimpse the corridors while touring the museum.  
• There is a small cafe in the courtyard to enjoy a quick drink or snack.

5. Birdwatching at Berlengas

Berlengas is a birdwatcher’s paradise. We’re not expert ornithologists by any means, but even we were amazed!

• Diverse Species: Look out for yellow-legged gulls, Cory’s shearwaters, and if you’re lucky, the rare Berlengas pipit.

• Nesting Seasons: Spring and early summer are the best times to see nesting birds.  Hiking around we could tell they were a bit agitated by our presence, and I’m glad they get some months human-free.

Should I Bring Food to Berlengas?

This is a great question for an island trip: ‘What about food?’ Well, friends, you’ve got options. However, this isn’t your typical all-inclusive resort. Here’s the lowdown on keeping your tummy happy in this little slice of paradise:

Option 1: BYO Paradise Picnic for Berlengas (Highly Recommended!)

• Packing your own lunch and snacks not only will allow you more beach or hike time, but can be much more cost effective.  The restaurant was good but had some steep prices.  For our family of seven it was well over 100€.
• I did not see any restrictions on what you can bring.  We brought an entire dinner to stay on the island, and I saw other ferry-goers unloading cases of beer.

Option 2: Eating at the Restaurants on Berlengas

• Mesa da Ilha Restaurant – Typical lunch menu (think fresh seafood and Portuguese specialties)
  • Contact: Susana Rocha at +351 969395763 or berlengabedbreakfast@gmail.com
• Castelinho (Little Castle Cafe) – Light lunch menu with healthy sandwiches and salads
  • Contact: Henrique Bello at +351 910 881 601 or berlengalocals@gmail.com

Other Tips for Visiting Berlengas

• There’s a small supermarket in Peniche near the docks. You can stock up on sandwich supplies, fruit, and snacks for under 15 euros.
• If you do decide to have a picnic on the island, I would suggest the small cave by the beach. If you walk towards the beach, you’ll notice a small bridge about halfway down the path. If you take a right off the path before you cross the bridge, you’ll notice a small cave that you can sit in and have a picnic out of the sun.
  • Note: due to the instability of the cliffs, this may not be available.  We could enter some caves and others we could not.
• Bring both sandals for the beach and hiking shoes.  The top hiking trails are dusty and rocky, and flip flops wouldn’t be my choice of footwear in those situations.
• If you can, I recommend seeing the island from many angles.  Hiking to the top, a boat tour, even scuba diving is an option!  It’s a gorgeous, tiny island and best appreciated for its various views.
  • If mobility is an issue, it’s also great to just go here for lunch or a sit on the beach.  This would make for a very enjoyable day trip.
• I know, I know, it’s not the most exciting part of planning a trip. But trust me on this one – get travel insurance. Better safe than sorry, especially when you’re on a tiny island in the middle of the Atlantic!

Whether you’re hiking the trails, exploring underwater caves, or simply lounging on the beach, Berlengas offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature (and maybe your inner child too!). 

Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable island experience!

Leslie,

Additional Reading

Making Your Family Visit To Porto, Portugal Unforgettable: Exploring Porto’s Four Personalities

Discovering Madeira as a Family

23 Hidden Gems Of Portugal For Families + Bonus Spots