The tropical island of Madeira is a kaleidoscope of colours and experiences. Located in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, this Portuguese island is not only an incredible adventure destination (think bucket list hikes like PR1), it is also home to some truly spectacular beaches. This guide looks to showcase 5 of the best beaches and swimming locations in Madeira!
5 of the best beaches and swimming spots to visit on your Madeira trip
Praia do Porto do Seixal (Seixal Black Sand Beach)
This is still one of the most unique and special beaches we have ever visited. Striking black sand, lush greenery lining the clifftops, blue waters, and a small town perched on the hill. Seixal Beach is a must visit during the Madeira adventures, not only for the spectacle, it’s also the perfect spot to relax and sunbake for a few hours. See our guide to Seixal Beach here.
Praia da Ponta do Sol
The tiny town of Ponta do Sol is a truly underrated location on Madeira. Situated close to Funchal, this town is worth visiting and the beach was one of our favourites. A calm, rocky beach with crystal clear water. Relax on the beach, rent a sunshade, or sunbake on the pier. Praia da Ponta do Sol should be on your list. See our Ponta do Sol experience here!
Porto Moniz Swimming Pools
The Porto Moniz swimming pools are some of the more unique attractions on Madeira. Naturally formed rockpools have been lined with paths to create unique swimming and bathing locations. Situated in Porto Moniz, this is a worthwhile visit, but be prepared that they get busy during the peak of summer days.
Visit these 2 swimming pools in Porto Moniz:
-Priscinhas Naturais do Porto Moniz
-Priscinas Naturalis Velhas
Praia da Banda Alem (Machido)
Want to escape the tourists and sunbake with the locals.. well Praia da Banda Alem is the perfect spot for this. Situated close to the Madeira airport in Machido, this local beach was our first swimming spot after we landed on the island on day 1. An underrated little beach to check out.
Praia do Sardinha (beach at end of PR8 hike)
If you like a challenge to reach the beach, the Praia do Sardinha is for you. Located at the end of the must do PR8 hike, this small beach has clear waters and not many people. You can also look to organize a boat trip to visit, but most people would complete the ~1-2 hours hike to reach it. Also located along the PR8 hike is the Sao Lourenco Beach, however we think Praia do Sardinha is better.
Other popular beaches we didn’t visit but think you should..
- Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools – Funchal – a less busy, close to Funchal, natural swimming pools option similar to the busy Porto Moniz.
- Prainha do Canical – on the way to PR8 hike, very busy with locals
- Santa Cruz Beach – Popular, wide, busy main town beach in Santa Cruz.
- Praia Formoso – wide stony beach spreading out along the coast near Funchal.
- Praia da Calheta – A picturesque little sandy beach in the tiny town of Calheta.
Want to explore more of this incredible island? See our Madeira guides below:
- Our ultimate guide to the famous PR1 hike
- PR8 hike – see why we think this is a must do hike in Madeira
- Check out why we think Seixal Black Sand Beach is the best in Madeira
- Don’t miss this hidden gem – Capelinha de Nossa Senhora de Fátima
- The charming beach town of Ponta do Sol is a must visit
- 9 things you need to know before you visit Madeira
- 5 do not miss locations in Madeira
- Faial gallery – this picturesque town and valley is incredible
- See our gallery to the incredible PR1 Hike
Enjoying our free guides & travel advice? Subscribe to our blog!
Jump your email into the list below. We won’t spam you! It’ll just keep you updated whenever we post another travel-related adventure, memory or tid-bid!
