Playa de Rodas, White sand beach in Cíes Islands, Spain
Playa de Rodas is a wide sand beach on the Cíes Islands that stretches for about 1200 meters and is flanked by forests on both sides. The shallow bay behind creates a sheltered setting that gives the beach its calm, protected character.
The islands served as a refuge point for centuries and were later protected as a national park to safeguard the marine ecosystem. This formal status was established in the early 2000s to preserve the natural environment.
The beach forms part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, where strict environmental regulations maintain the natural conditions of the ecosystem.
Reaching the island requires a ferry trip from Vigo, and there is a daily visitor limit to protect the site. The best time to visit is during calm weather, as ferry services depend on conditions.
The water temperature stays relatively cool throughout the year, creating swimming conditions quite different from most southern European beaches. This coolness is driven by strong Atlantic currents that constantly bring fresh water.
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