Onza Island

Île de Onza is a small island in the Atlantic Ocean located about 600 meters south of the larger island of Ons, forming part of the Ons Archipelago. Measuring approximately 32 hectares with a rectangular shape and a peak of 84 meters, it features steep rocky cliffs, sparse shrub vegetation, and two modest beaches on its north and south shores.

The island was used for military purposes due to its strategic position along the Galician coast, with a small hut built by military forces serving as a monitoring station. This structure dates from a period when the island played a role in observing maritime traffic and coastal defense.

The island serves as a natural sanctuary for the local maritime heritage of Galicia. Its isolation and protected status reflect how the region values its wild coastal spaces and connection to the sea.

Access requires a boat trip from nearby ports such as Bueu, Sanxenxo, or Portonovo, as there are no natural harbor facilities. During peak season, visitors need prior approval, while off-season visits are limited to authorized guides with restricted group sizes.

The island serves as a major breeding ground for seabirds, particularly in its western section where large nesting colonies gather to reproduce. The absence of trees and steep cliffs create ideal nesting conditions that attract birdwatchers seeking to observe rare species in their natural habitat.

Location: Bueu

GPS coordinates: 42.34730,-8.93540

Latest update: January 19, 2026 12:38