Understand the setting
The municipality describes Cabanas as a long, narrow island beach opposite the village. The ocean shore is the destination for a conventional beach day; the view from Avenida Ria Formosa is across lagoon water. That distinction helps when comparing accommodation described as waterfront or near the beach.
Choose your departure point first, then trace the walk from your room. A longer village walk may matter more than a short crossing, especially with a pushchair or beach bags. If you want to return to your accommodation at lunchtime, factor in boarding and waiting again rather than measuring the route as a single distance.
Plan both sides of the crossing
The municipal nature guide describes small boats leaving from the village seafront. Establish where tickets are bought and how the return works, then save the details before settling on the sand. Do not leave the final departure as something to investigate after an unhurried afternoon walk.
For anyone with limited mobility, ask specific questions about stepping into the boat, the landing and the route across the island. A beach being nearby does not establish an accessible journey. Travel with only the equipment you can comfortably manage through the whole route, including the return at the end of the day.
Make a comfortable day on the sand
Use the marked access over the dunes and choose a spot that suits your group's plans. Establish a meeting place before anyone walks along the shore. Carry drinking water, shade and the small essentials you want available without another crossing, rather than relying on a quick trip back to the room.
Follow the beach flags and the instructions on site. A calm-looking lagoon does not make a channel crossing on foot or by swimming an appropriate alternative to the boat. Water sports also need the right location and conditions; arrange them through an operator who can explain how the activity fits the day.
Compare other Tavira beach outings
For variety, consider Barril or Terra Estreita as separate day trips rather than expecting all beaches to share Cabanas' access. Barril's approach uses a footbridge and an onward walk or small train; Terra Estreita is reached by boat from Santa Luzia. Those journeys give each outing a different shape.
Tavira Island's main beach is another boat-based option, with departure points associated with Tavira and Quatro Águas. Pick one alternative that interests you and organise its transport properly. A single well-chosen change of scenery is more useful than spending your holiday moving equipment between several similar stretches of sand.