San Simón Island
A historic island in Vigo estuary, once a monastery & hospital, now a cultural site with gardens, accessible by guided boat tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Boat tours available
San Simón Island
Best Time
Boat tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic island in Vigo estuary, once a monastery & hospital, now a cultural site with gardens, accessible by guided boat tour.
"The guided tour is highly recommended, offering a fascinating journey through the island's complex history."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Some terrain is rough with steps. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the island.
📅 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours from Vigo/Cangas are the only way to visit. Book ahead, especially for weekends!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic San Simón Island
Vigo Estuary
Explore a former monastery, isolation hospital, and concentration camp, now a preserved cultural site.
San Antón Island Connection
Connected by bridge
Walk across the bridge to the smaller San Antón Island, part of the archipelago's rich history.
Restored Gardens and Natural Spaces
Throughout the island
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens and natural areas, offering a peaceful contrast to its past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour in Advance
Prepare for Island Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Some terrain is rough with steps. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the island.
📅 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours from Vigo/Cangas are the only way to visit. Book ahead, especially for weekends!
🗣️ Guided Tour is Key
The included guided tour is highly recommended for understanding the island's complex history.
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy panoramic views of the estuary and Rande Bridge during the boat ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Some terrain is rough with steps. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the island.
📅 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours from Vigo/Cangas are the only way to visit. Book ahead, especially for weekends!
🗣️ Guided Tour is Key
The included guided tour is highly recommended for understanding the island's complex history.
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy panoramic views of the estuary and Rande Bridge during the boat ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the guided tours for their informative and engaging delivery, highlighting the guides' ability to bring the island's complex history to life. The unique setting and the boat trip are also frequently mentioned as highlights. Some note that the terrain can be a bit rough with steps, and booking tours in advance is essential.
"Excursion with the company Mar de Ons.
Punctual departure and return from Vigo.
It's not permitted to visit without a guide and this is included in the ticket price. The guide was very good - tour was only in Spanish/Castellano but think you can request it in English.
Good overview of the island and a bit of free time at the end to walk alone.
Some of the terrain is a little rough and there are some steps to climb."
Rachel B.
"SAN SIMÓN ISLAND is located in the Vigo estuary and covers an area of 7 hectares. It forms the San Simón archipelago, along with SAN ANTON ISLAND and two other small islets, San Bartolomé and San Norberto. Currently, all of them are uninhabited. The islands of San Simón and San Antón are connected by a bridge.
Throughout its history, the island was used as a monastery, a lazaretto, a concentration camp, and a home for orphaned children.
The two islands together have been listed as a Site of Cultural Interest since July 29, 1999. Since then, the island has been rehabilitated, and gardens, buildings, and natural spaces have been preserved for cultural purposes and historical memory.
It can only be visited by requesting a special permit or on guided boat trips from Vigo and Cangas de Morrazo, lasting approximately 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (including boat trips).
The guided tour is worthwhile, as it also includes a visit to San Antón Island (connected by a bridge) and the small museum located there to learn about its history and evolution.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Our compliments to the guide who assisted us on our visit on August 3, 2025."
José Ma Ortiz
"Guided tour of the island of San Simón and San Antón. When you buy the boat ticket, a guided tour of the island is included. We went with the Mar de Ons shipping company. Both the crew and our guide, Yago, were very friendly and entertaining. Highly recommended."
JUAN CARLOS PC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Simón Island is only accessible by boat. Guided boat tours depart from Vigo and Cangas de Morrazo. These tours are the only way to visit the island and typically include a guided tour of its historical sites.
Naviera Mar de Ons is a prominent company that offers guided boat trips to San Simón Island from Vigo and Cangas.
The boat trip, including the guided tour of the island and San Antón, usually lasts between 4.5 to 7 hours.
No, San Simón Island is uninhabited and can only be reached by boat. There is no public access by car or foot.
Yes, there are typically parking facilities available at the ports of Vigo and Cangas, though it's advisable to check specific port information for availability and costs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost typically includes the boat trip and the guided tour. Prices can vary, but one source mentions around €17.5 for the tour. It's best to check with the tour operator for current pricing.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend tours, as they can sell out.
The island is accessible only through scheduled boat tours. Tours typically operate on weekends and may have specific departure and return times.
Yes, visits to San Simón Island are generally only permitted with a guided tour, which is included in the boat ticket price. This ensures visitors learn about the island's history.
No, it is not permitted to visit San Simón Island without a guide. The guided tour is an integral part of the experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historical buildings, restored gardens, and natural spaces. The guided tour covers its past as a monastery, isolation hospital, and more. You can also visit San Antón Island via a bridge.
The island has some uneven terrain and steps, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. It's suitable for leisurely walks and exploring its historical and natural features.
While some athletic events involve swimming in the area, swimming directly around the island for leisure might not be part of the standard tour. Check with tour operators for any specific water activities.
Historically, it served as a monastery, a lazaretto (isolation hospital), a concentration camp, and a home for orphaned children. It's now a Site of Cultural Interest.
Yes, there is a small museum located on San Antón Island, connected by a bridge, which details the history and evolution of the archipelago.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic views of the estuary, the Rande Bridge from the boat, the restored buildings, and the lush gardens. The connection to San Antón Island also offers unique perspectives.
Yes, photography is generally allowed on San Simón Island for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions during guided tours.
Landscape photography, historical architecture, and capturing the serene natural beauty are popular. The island's unique history also lends itself to evocative imagery.
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected historical and natural areas. It's advisable to check local regulations or with the tour operator before flying a drone.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the island's landscapes and architecture. Sunset views from the boat ride back can also be stunning.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Ensure children wear comfortable shoes as there are steps and uneven paths. The free time at the end of the tour allows kids to explore the gardens and open spaces. Consider the duration of the tour to ensure it suits your children's attention spans.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the small museum on San Antón Island, which further details the archipelago's past. The island's designation as a Site of Cultural Interest underscores its historical importance.
🚶♀️ Nature & Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the unique blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. The connection to San Antón Island also presents interesting photographic opportunities. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island's varied terrain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of San Simón Island
The island's rehabilitation has focused on preserving its historical memory while creating spaces for cultural purposes. Visitors can explore the remnants of its past, from the monastic cells to the more somber sites of its later uses. The guided tours are crucial for understanding the significance of each area and the stories embedded within the island's stones.
Today, the island is a testament to resilience and remembrance. The restored buildings, lush gardens, and natural spaces offer a peaceful environment for reflection, allowing visitors to connect with the island's profound history.
Experiencing San Simón Island: Tours and Activities
The guided tour itself is a highlight, with knowledgeable guides like Yago and Rubén sharing the island's extensive history with humor and detail. Visitors are not only shown the historical sites but also learn about the island's evolution and its significance. After the guided portion, there's usually some free time to explore the island independently, wander through the gardens, or visit San Antón Island via the connecting bridge.
Beyond historical tours, San Simón Island has also been a unique venue for events like the Sinsal Festival. This festival leverages the island's secluded and atmospheric setting to create an intimate musical experience for a limited number of attendees, highlighting the island's potential for diverse cultural engagement.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit