When is the best time to go to the Berlenga Islands? The visiting season runs from April to October, but each month has different characteristics. This guide helps you choose the right date for your trip.
When are the Berlenga Islands open to visitors?
Regular boat operations between Peniche and the Berlenga normally run from April to October, peaking in July and August. Outside this period, the Atlantic weather conditions make the crossing irregular and services on the island very limited.
Month by month: what to expect
May — The Choice of the Experienced
May is considered by many the best time to visit the Berlenga Islands. Why? Because the island isn’t crowded yet, the weather is good, the sea is calm and the landscapes are lush and green. Temperatures hover around 18–22°C and visibility for snorkelling is excellent. The BerlengaPass (ICNF fee) is easier to obtain in May — in July and August it sells out months in advance.
Ideal for: those who want to avoid crowds, photography, snorkelling, birdwatching.
June — Excellent Balance
June combines good weather, a calm sea and a still-manageable number of visitors. The water temperature starts to rise to 17–19°C, making swimming and snorkelling more comfortable. The days are long — the summer solstice brings almost 15 hours of daylight.
Ideal for: families with children, diving, guided tours.
July — High Season, Maximum Capacity
July is the most sought-after month. The island operates at its maximum capacity of 550 simultaneous visitors regulated by the ICNF. The BerlengaPass sells out quickly — sometimes 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Book everything well ahead.
The weather is almost guaranteed, but the island is very busy. The restaurant, the beach and the trails get congested at peak times.
Ideal for: those who can only go this month — but book in advance.
August — High Season, Sun and Warm Sea
August offers the warmest water of the year (19–21°C) — ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving. BerlengaTur’s catamaran provides a comfortable, stable crossing, and our team monitors sea conditions daily to ensure the best experience on board.
Ideal for: swimming, snorkelling and those only available in summer. Book well in advance — it sells out fast.
September — The Hidden Gem
September is the locals’ well-kept secret. Summer is still present, the sea is serene and inviting, and the island becomes progressively less crowded. The air temperature is around 22–26°C and the water is still warm from the previous months.
The BerlengaPass is easier to get. Accommodation prices in Peniche drop. It’s the ideal month for anyone with flexible dates.
Ideal for: practically everyone — it’s our favourite month.
Summary table by month
| Month | Crowds | Sea | Temperature | BerlengaPass |
| May | Low | Calm | 18–22°C | Easy |
| June | Medium | Good | 20–24°C | Available |
| July | High | Good | 22–26°C | Sells out fast |
| August | Very high | Warm and sunny | 23–27°C | Sells out fast |
| September | Medium-high | Excellent | 22–25°C | Available |
When NOT to visit the Berlenga Islands
From November to March, boats operate very little or not at all. The winter Atlantic makes the crossing unpredictable and potentially dangerous. The island is practically deserted and services (restaurant, equipment rental) are closed.
How to secure your spot: the BerlengaPass
The BerlengaPass is the island access permit issued by the ICNF, mandatory for all visitors. It costs €3 per person and must be purchased separately from the boat ticket. In July and August, get the BerlengaPass before booking the boat — the island’s capacity is the first limit.
See our complete guide to the BerlengaPass to learn how to do it step by step.
Book your trip
Whether in May or September, BerlengaTur operates with a stable catamaran and a modern fleet. Choose your pack:
- Pack 1 – Round Trip: complete free time on the island
- Pack 2 – Caves + Ferry: with a glass-bottom boat tour of the caves
- Pack 3 – Guided Tour: with a specialised Biosphere Reserve guide
Ready to discover Berlenga?
Book your spot on one of our travel packages to Berlenga Island.
See Travel Packages →