The fourth edition of the Marine Forests Festival will take place from 13 to 22 May 2026 in Vila Nova de Milfontes. Over the course of several days, the event will feature a range of initiatives combining science, education and community engagement, with the aim of raising awareness of marine conservation and promoting coastal ecosystems.

Click here to see the locations of the activities.

The festival you won’t want to miss

Over the course of more than a week, the Marine Forests Festival invites the local community, visitors, students and researchers to immerse themselves in the world of coastal and marine ecosystems.

With initiatives ranging from educational activities, workshops, exhibitions, guided tours and hands-on experiences, the event’s main aim is to raise awareness of the importance of marine conservation and to promote scientific knowledge in an accessible and engaging way.

Following several previous editions that brought together a diverse range of audiences to celebrate the value of marine forests, the festival returns with an even more varied programme, further cementing its role in bridging the gap between science, the community and nature.

If you care about preserving the oceans and the future of the planet, then this is an event not to be missed.

Featured activities

During the festival, visitors will be able to take part in a range of activities, such as:

• Surf lessons
• Boat trips on the River Mira
• Workshops and hands-on activities
• Diving and underwater activities for all levels
• Beach clean-ups and environmental awareness initiatives

Featured premiere

One of the festival’s must-see events is the premiere of the documentary “Marine Forests of the Portuguese Coast” on 16 May at 10.15 pm. This screening offers a unique insight into the richness of these ecosystems and their vital role in biodiversity and the balance of the ocean, providing an opportunity to learn about and reflect on their importance.

Useful information

• Some activities require advance booking.
• View the scientific programme here.
• See the full programme here.

The Marine Forests Festival is organised by CCMAR – the Algarve Centre for Marine Sciences, in partnership with Colégio Nossa Senhora da Graça, the Municipality of Odemira, the University of the Algarve and the Parish Council of Vila Nova de Milfontes, and is supported by various organisations, whose collaboration ensures the delivery of all the event’s activities and its scientific, educational and cultural scope.