Well, they're not so secret anymore... as a matter of fact, Cies Islands have been featured in Guardian's Top10 best islands in Europe, but Xunta de Galicia have come up with a system to protect this National Park from the tourists hordes, keeping its beaches unspoilt. Since 2018, in order to control the number of visitants, daily quotes have been created and you need to ask for a permission (https://autorizacionillasatlanticas.xunta.gal/) if you want to enjoy the silence of this unbelievable nature's haven. 

And I'm so glad they did it... I believe that this action goes so much beyond the number of people. It builds a true sense of mission as a protector of this refuge which ends up to influence your actions and your overall atitude.   

We've applied for authorization one month in advance of our trip. Once you get the email allowing your visit, you can then buy the ferry boat tickets to get to this archipelago off the coast of Pontevedra, Galicia.  

We've chosen to travel from Baiona with Mar de Ons, but you can also take the boat from Vigo or Cangas. The duration is approximately the same: 35 to 40 minutes to Monteagudo and Faro Islands - both connected by Rodas beach and by the bridge on the lake side. The third island that composes the archipelago - San Martiño - is only acessible by private boat.