Madeira Island is a stunning volcanic paradise that beckons travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, year-round subtropical climate, and pristine beaches.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family-friendly vacation, or an adventure-packed holiday, Madeira’s diverse coastline has something for everyone. From the black sand wonders of Porto do Seixal to the golden shores of Porto Santo, and the natural pools of Porto Moniz to the pebble beaches of Ribeira Brava, Madeira’s beaches are as varied as they are beautiful.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels In Madeira:
💎 Luxury Hotel: Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino
✨ 5-Star: Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira
🏨 4-Star: Aqua Natura Bay
🛏️ 3-Star: Dom Pedro Madeira
💸 Cheap: Holidays Madeira
👨👩👧👦 For Families: Les Suites at The Cliff Bay - PortoBay
🏩 For Couples: Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira
Quick Guide to the Best Place to Stay In Madeira:
- 🌟 White Sand: Porto Moniz Natural Pool
- 🌄 For Wildlife: Machico Beach (Banda D’Alem Beach)
- 👪 For Families: Calheta Beach
- 🚣🏻♀️ For Adventure Lovers: Seixal Beach (Porto do Seixal)
1. Seixal Beach (Porto do Seixal) – A Stunning Natural Pool 🌊
🖤 Black sand beauty: If you’re dreaming of a unique Madeira beach experience, look no further than Seixal Beach, also known as Porto do Seixal. This stunning stretch of black volcanic sand is framed by towering lush cliffs, creating a dramatic and unforgettable landscape.
🏊♂️ Natural pools: One of the highlights of Seixal Beach is the nearby natural pools, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters sheltered from the waves. After a refreshing swim, head to the Naval Club lounge bar for a cocktail or a bite to eat while enjoying the breathtaking views.
🍤 Food Lover’s Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try the fresh seafood at Restaurante Praia do Porto do Seixal, a beachfront eatery known for its grilled limpets and garlic shrimp.
💡 Insider Tip: For a truly magical experience, visit Seixal Beach at sunset when the black sand seems to glitter under the golden light.
Best Hotels Near Seixal Beach 🏨
- Seixal Bay Hotel: This modern hotel boasts stunning sea views, a luxurious spa, and direct access to the beach. The spa at the hotel offers a range of indulgent treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs, as well as a sauna and a fitness center for guests to unwind and relax. Overall, this modern hotel is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy a luxurious beachfront getaway.
- Quinta do Furão: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, this charming hotel features traditional Madeiran architecture and a renowned restaurant serving local specialties. Guests can relax in the lush gardens or take a dip in the sparkling infinity pool while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean. The hotel offers a range of activities, including guided hikes through the surrounding countryside and boat trips to explore the coastline.
- Vivenda Dias: For a more intimate experience, consider this lovely vacation rental with a garden and terrace just a short walk from the beach. This charming vacation rental is perfect for a romantic getaway or a quiet retreat with a few close friends. The garden and terrace provide a peaceful outdoor space to relax and unwind, while the beach is just a short walk away for a day of sun and surf.
2. Porto Moniz Natural Pool – Best Beach in Madeira 🏜️
🏊♀️ Unique swimming: For a truly unique swimming experience, head to the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools. These breathtaking volcanic rock pools are filled with crystal-clear seawater, offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim in a natural setting while being protected from the crashing waves.
🍽️ Surrounding amenities: The Porto Moniz natural swimming pools are surrounded by a variety of restaurants and bars, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the area. Be sure to visit the Porto Moniz Aquarium, where you can learn about the fascinating marine life that inhabits the waters around the Portuguese island of Madeira.
🐟 Food Lover’s Tip: After a day of swimming and sunbathing, indulge in some fresh seafood at Restaurante Cachalote, a local favorite known for its grilled tuna steaks and seafood rice.
⏱️ Time Saver: If you’re short on time and try to find things to do in Madeira, consider taking a guided tour that combines a visit to the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools with other nearby attractions, such as the Ribeira da Janela waterfall and the Santana traditional houses.
🌴 Must-visit destination: With its unique natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and range of activities, Porto Moniz is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Madeira. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, this charming town has something for everyone.
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience at the pools.
Best Hotels Near Porto Moniz 🏨
- Aqua Natura Madeira: This modern hotel features stunning views of the natural pools and offers direct access to the water. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an exciting outdoor adventure, this modern hotel is the perfect choice for travelers looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the natural pools.
- Hotel Euro Moniz: Located just a short walk from the pools, this comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet. In the morning, guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet in the hotel’s dining room, which includes a selection of hot and cold dishes, fresh fruit, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee.
3. Calheta Beach: A Family – Friendly Sandy Beach in Madeira 👪
Golden best sands, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of water sports await you at Calheta Beach. This artificial beach, created with imported sand from Morocco and protected by breakwaters, offers a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the island’s sunny weather.
🐳 Whale watching: Calheta is also a great base for whale-watching tours, as the waters around Madeira are home to a variety of cetaceans, including sperm whales, fin whales, and bottlenose dolphins. Several operators offer guided tours, providing an unforgettable opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close.
🎨 Cultural attractions: Calheta is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Casa das Mudas Arts Center, which hosts exhibitions, concerts, and workshops throughout the year. For a taste of the island’s famous fortified wine, visit the Madeira Wine Company in the nearby village of Estreito da Calheta, where you can tour the cellars and sample different varieties.
💰 Money Saver: Take advantage of the free public parking near the beach and the complimentary sunbeds and umbrellas provided by some of the beachfront hotels and restaurants.
🌴 Perfect base: With its stunning beach, wide range of activities, and cultural attractions, Calheta is a perfect base for your Madeira getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, try your hand at water sports, or explore the island’s rich history and traditions, this charming town has it all.
💡 Insider Tip: Rent a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the calm waters and nearby coves for a unique perspective of the coastline.
Best Hotels near Calheta Beach 🏨
- Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa: This luxurious hotel, set in a former sugar cane factory, features stunning ocean views, multiple pools, and a world-class spa. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including spacious suites and private villas, each elegantly appointed with modern amenities and sophisticated decor.
The hotel’s restaurants offer a range of dining experiences, from casual beachside fare to fine dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. - Calheta Beach All-Inclusive Hotel: Located right on the beach, this all-inclusive resort offers comfortable rooms, a variety of dining options, and a wide range of activities. Guests can enjoy lounging by the pool or partaking in water sports such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
4. Banda D’Alem Beach – Classic Beach Holiday Spot 🏖️
Machico Beach (Banda D’Alem Beach) is one of the best beaches in Madeira Archipelago, located on the North Coast of Madeira. This natural sandy beach offers a relaxing day on the beach experience, with a stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing and swimming. You can easily reach Machico Beach by taking a bus from Funchal or driving from other parts of the island. The beach is one of the best natural swimming spots on Madeira, along with Porto Santo Island. Apart from Machico Beach, other beautiful beaches in the area include Ponta do Sol Beach and Ribeira Brava Beach.
🏐 Beach activities: The beach offers a variety of activities for all ages, including swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There are also several beachfront bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views.
🏰 Historic charm: Machico itself is a charming historic town with plenty to see and do. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, visit the Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo (a 17th-century fortress), or explore the Mercado Velho (old market) where you can find local crafts and souvenirs.
🚶♂️Explore the east: Machico is also a great base for exploring the eastern part of Madeira. Take a hike along the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula, visit the nearby Caniçal Whale Museum, or take a day trip to the Baia D’Abra beach, a secluded spot accessible only by boat or on foot.
💡 Insider Tip: For a unique experience, visit the beach during the annual Machico Sand Sculpture Festival in July, when artists from around the world create incredible sculptures using the beach’s golden sand.
Best Hotels Near Machico Beach (Banda D’Alem Beach) 🏨
- Hotel Dom Pedro Madeira: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and stunning views of the bay. The hotel boasts sleek and stylish design throughout, with a welcoming lobby area and spacious rooms equipped with all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or relax on the sun loungers while taking in the breathtaking views of the bay.
- White Waters House: For a more intimate experience, consider this charming bed and breakfast located in a traditional Madeiran house just a short walk from the beach.
- Casas da Avenida: These self-catering apartments are perfect for families or groups, offering fully-equipped kitchens and a prime location near the beach and town center.
5. Prainha do Caniçal – Perfect Beach for Bohemian Vibes 🌴
Prainha Beach (Prainha do Caniçal) is one of the best beaches on the island of Porto Santo, part of the Madeira archipelago. This natural sandy beach is a hidden gem located on the eastern coast of Madeira. With its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Prainha Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the beach. The beach is one of the best natural swimming spots in Madeira and offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can easily reach Prainha Beach by taking a bus from Funchal or driving along the northern coast of Madeira. Along with Porto Santo Island, Prainha Beach is often included in the list of the best beaches in Portugal.
🥾 Short hike: The area around Prainha Beach is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. The nearby Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula offers stunning walks along the dramatic coastline, with breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and the endless blue sea. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna, including the rare Monk Seal and the endemic Madeiran wall lizard.
🏡 Charming village: Caniçal itself is a charming fishing village with a laid-back atmosphere and a rich history. Visit the Whale Museum to learn about Madeira’s whaling past, or take a stroll along the picturesque harbor where you can watch the colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water.
🌴 Off-the-beaten-path: For those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path beach experience, Prainha Beach is a must-visit. With its stunning natural beauty, opportunities for hiking and exploring, and laid-back charm, this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler who makes the effort to discover it.
💡 Insider Tip: Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as there are no facilities or restaurants at the beach itself.
Best Hotels Near Prainha Beach (Prainha do Caniçal) 🏨
- Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina: This luxurious resort, located just a short drive from the beach, offers stunning sea views, a marina, and a variety of dining options. Guests can choose between relaxing in the infinity pool, pampering themselves at the spa, or exploring the nearby hiking trails. The resort also offers a range of water sports and boat excursions for those looking for a bit more adventure.
- Marques House: For a more budget-friendly option, consider this simple but clean guesthouse located in the heart of Caniçal. This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as a private bathroom, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Located within walking distance to restaurants, shops, and the beach, it’s a convenient option for travelers looking to explore Caniçal on a budget.
FAQs About Trip To Madeira
What are the best beaches to visit in Madeira?
Funchal offers a variety of beaches to explore, with sandy beaches such as Calheta Beach and Prainha Beach being popular choices. For a unique experience, don’t miss the volcanic black sand beach at Porto Moniz.
Are there natural swimming pools in Madeira?
Yes, Madeira is known for its stunning natural swimming pools along the coastline, such as those in Porto Moniz and Seixal Beach. These pools are formed by volcanic cliffs and provide a one-of-a-kind swimming experience.
What activities can I do in Madeira besides visiting beaches?
Aside from beach hopping, Madeira offers plenty of activities such as water sports, exploring the lush coast of Madeira, and visiting attractions like Machico and Porto Santo. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Porto Santo Beach for a day trip from Funchal.
Do the beaches in Madeira have facilities like pools?
Many beaches in Madeira offer facilities like outdoor swimming pools near the beach area. For a relaxing day by the water, you can find pools in Madeira that are perfect for both swimming and sunbathing.
Which beach in Madeira is recommended for families?
Machico Bay Beach is a family-friendly beach in Madeira known for its sandy shores and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for children to enjoy the sun and swimming.
How far is Porto da Cruz from Funchal?
Porto da Cruz is located on the east of the island and is approximately a drive from Funchal. The coastal drive offers scenic views, making it a pleasant journey to explore more of Madeira’s beauty.
