The Rías Baixas (Galician for "Lower Rias") are a series of four estuarine inlets located on the southwestern coast of Galicia, Spain.

Due to unique conditions, the Rías Baixas are rich in marine life which helps the fishing and aquaculture industry of the area.

Beaches, marinas, distinctive towns, and plenty of water activities also attract tourists, providing another source of income.

They begin along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean and jut inland, eventually meeting up with a river.

Each ria has a basic funnel shape as well, being wider at the ocean and narrowing as it approaches land and the river.

[1] Geologists believe that the Rías Baixas formed as a result of tectonic action which sunk certain land areas near the coast and along river valleys.

[3] Most of the Rías Baixas have islands in the ocean near the mouth, which help to create the calm waters.

Important natural features in the area are the mountain and lagoon of Louro as well as the Corrubedo wetlands.

The Ría de Arousa is especially important in the seafood industry as it accounts for over half of the mussel farming in the Rías Baixas.

[13] This park is made up of the Ons, Salvora, Cortegada and Cíes Islands, each located at the mouth of one of the Rías Baixas.

[14] In addition to attracting visitors, the park serves as an important refuge for a variety of marine and island life.

[16] Visitors to the park can participate in taking walks, bird and wildlife watching, and occasionally camping.

However, the designation of the park as a protected area prevents too many people from being on the islands at once Special permission is needed for certain activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, or sailing.

Fishing and harvesting the abundant aquatic life that live in the rias is one way of supporting the industry.

Approximately 400,000 people make their living from fishing or performing services that help the industry.

This wine is especially successful in the area because the grapes that are the main ingredient are able to withstand and even thrive in the moist, coastal, climate.

Naturally, many water and boating activities are also a central attraction for tourists visiting the Rías Baixas.

The food in the Rías Baixas, taken locally from the ocean and rias, is claimed to be very high quality and also attracts tourists.