The best beaches in Madeira await you. An ever-present sun warming the sand and an ocean which is always between 18 and 24 degrees.  What more do you want? Welcome to Madeira. The sublime beach of Seixal surrounded by lush nature, the family beaches of Calheta and Ribeira Brava, the wellness and relaxation beach of Porto Santo or even the secret beach of Jardim do Mar, you have a large choice of beaches as beautiful as they are unforgettable.

Awarded as the most beautiful island in the world, Madeira is a destination that brings together nature lovers, relaxation, sublime landscapes, sun, shopping, cocktails, sports activities, wellness, active holidays, whether you are travelling as a couple or as a family.

Do not delay and book your flights, accommodation, activities and tours in Madeira and set off to explore the best beaches in Madeira.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in Portugal, Best Hidden Gems in Portugal, Best Natural Wonders in Portugal as well as the Best Places to Visit in Portugal and Best Things to do in Portugal! 

1. Praia do Porto do Seixal

Seixal

For the beauty of its volcanic sand, its crystal-clear waters, the incredible cliffs where lush vegetation clings, Praia do Porto do Seixal is certainly one of the best beaches in Madeira. In reality there is not one but several beaches in Seixal, a civil parish located in the Northwest of the main island, a few minutes from the natural pools of Porto Moniz.

The beach in this photo is "Praia do Porto do Seixal beach" the beach at the port of Seixal. The beach is not very big but is worth the trip for the spectacular views of the North coast of Madeira Island. A perfect beach for instagrammers and nature lovers.

This beach is located just 40 minutes by car from Funchal.

Book your flights to Madeira, your accommodation, tours and activities in Madeira, such as a scuba diving experience and discover the most beautiful beaches of Madeira.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Things to do in Madeira, the Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira, Best Viewpoints in Madeira, Best Things to do in Madeira for Nature Lovers as well as the Best things to do in Madeira with Kids. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Holiday Home by the Sea Pipas do Avo - Seixal". Just a few steps from Seixal Beach.

2. Porto Santo Beach

Porto Santo Island

Porto Santo is the second inhabited island of the Madeira archipelago. People come here for its kilometres of fine golden sand (renowned for its therapeutic properties), its wellness hotels, its world-renowned golf course, its diving centre, the hospitality and sympathy of the population and the beauty of its landscapes and the amazing turquoise blue waters.

Climb to the Miradouro da Portela ranked among the best viewpoints in Madeira. The view of this unique island will take your breath away. 

Did you know that Christiano Ronaldo's mother also often enjoys a relaxing afternoon on the beaches of Porto Santo? The easiest way to get there is by ferry from the port of Funchal. The crossing takes less than two hours and costs around 30 euros per person.

Book your flights, your accommodation in Madeira or on the island of Porto Santo as well as your tours and activities in Madeira, such as a "From Funchal: Porto Santo 1-Day Cruise and Tour". Treat yourself to a pure moment of digital detox in Porto Santo.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal + a domestic flight to Porto Santo. (30 min).

 Where to stay: "Casa da Maresia" located 400m from Porto Santo Beach.

3. Praia do Vigário 

Camara de Lobos

We had been to Madeira before, but how could we have missed the most beautiful pebble beach in Madeira? The waves are sometimes rough but the views are truly breath-taking on the cliff of Cabo Girao (the highest cliff in Europe) and give the beach a unique and authentic atmosphere. 

This is where young people and families from Camara de Lobos (one of the most populous towns in Madeira) come to relax. A little puncha (rum made from sugar cane grown in Madeira), music and lots of sun and you have the ingredients for a perfect lazy day. The beach has changing rooms and showers and you can eat on site. The beach is supervised during the high season by several lifeguards.

Do not miss miss "Praia do Vigario" one of the most beautiful beaches in Madeira.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your activities and tours in Madeira.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Casa Castanheta" only 600 metres from Vigario Beach.

4. Machico Bay Beach 

Machico

"Praia de Machico" is a pretty golden sand beach located in Machico. If you are dying to swim as soon as you arrive at Funchal airport, take a taxi and in 5 minutes you arrive in Machico, the ancient capital of Madeira Island.

One of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Madeira awaits you there. This sheltered beach is perfect for families and surrounded by restaurants and entertainment companies that offer "Whales & Dolphins watching tours".

Machico is located 20 minutes by car from Funchal, to the east of this paradise island. Prepare your swimsuits, your environmentally friendly sunscreen and treat yourself to moments of pure relaxation on one of the most beautiful beaches in Madeira.

During your stay discover the Best Things to do in Madeira, the Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira, Best Viewpoints in Madeira, Best Things to do in Madeira for Nature Lovers as well as the Best things to do in Madeira with Kids. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Machim House by AnaLodges" located 300 metres from the beach.

5. Calheta Beach

Calheta

Two beaches of fine golden sand, sheltered and  made to measure for families, friends, lovers, synonymous with sun, relaxation and safety. The beaches of Calheta are magnificent sandy beaches located to the west of Madeira.  They have been created with the most beautiful fine sand for days of pure relaxation 45 minutes by car from Funchal.

Calheta means in Portuguese "small cove". It is a sheltered place which makes it one of the most pleasant beaches on the island. If you are interested in art, be sure to visit the arts centre "Casa das Mudas", a must see for art and architecture enthusiasts.

Do you have 5 minutes? Also discover the secret beach of Jardim do Mar, a 10-minute drive away.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Things to do in Madeira, the Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira & Best Viewpoints in Madeira,.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your activities and tours in Madeira.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Madeira Moment - Tropical Apartment in Calheta" for its amazing pool and ocean views. 

6. Ribeira Brava Beach

Ribeira  Brava

Praia da Ribeira is a beautiful pebble beach located in the village of Ribeira Brava, a fairly quiet village that comes alive during religious processions. This beach is clean and quiet.

You can reach it with the local bus from Funchal or drive (20 min from Funchal). Do not miss the church of Ribeira Brava and go up to the lighthouse which offers breathtaking views of Ribeira Brava.

If you are ‘brave’ you go up to the viewpoint "Miradoudoro da Encumeada" (1000 m above sea level) which offers sublime views of the north and south of the Island.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Unique House - Pool, Terrace & Amazing View". Features pool with a sea view.

7. Praia de Porto da Cruz 

Porto da Cruz

There are two main beaches in Porto da Cruz, a must see during your stay in Madeira. The first is unmissable as it is located in the immediate vicinity of the Porto da Cruz swimming pools.

The other beach is at the end of the promenade along the coast and is frequented by surfers. Do not miss a visit to the last steamed rum distillery "North Mills Distillery" in Porto da Cruz to taste a 100% local rum made from sugar cane grown on the island.

If you come on Sunday morning you can bathe while hearing mass. To allow residents who have difficulty getting to the church, loudspeakers have been installed outside. The organ and the sound of the waves will accompany your relaxing day on the beach of Porto da Cruz, one of the most beautiful beaches in Madeira. 

During your stay discover the Best Things to do in Madeira, the Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira, Best Viewpoints in Madeira, Best Things to do in Madeira for Nature Lovers as well as the Best things to do in Madeira with Kids. 

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your activities and tours in Madeira.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Madeira Surf Camp" provides a shuttle service; bicycle rental and can arrange activities like hiking, cycling, diving and various water sports.

8. Prainha Beach

Caniçal

"Prainha beach" is located a few minutes’ drive from "Machico Bay Beach", east of the island. "Prainha" means small beach. This secret beach is not visible from the road

Park nearby and have a drink or a bit of lunch in a shop located upstream from the beach. Small picnic tables are set up on this pretty sandy beach.

Discover one of Madeira's secret beaches by booking your flights, accommodation and tours and activities in Madeira, such as a dolphin and whale watching catamaran tour.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Vila Cais da Gaivota" featuring direct access to the sea and a terrace.

9. Quinta do Lorde Private Beach

Caniçal

For those who like discretion, privacy, relaxation and high- level services, "Quinta do Lorde Resort" is for you. With its architecture perfectly integrated into the landscape, this resort looks like a typical Madeirean village.

It features its own marina, a private beach area and private pools. It is an excellent choice for those who like exclusivity and a 5-star service. The beach and swimming pool are reserved for hotel guests, but you are very welcome to enjoy the restaurants and bars of the resort or stay there and enjoy all its facilities.

Book your flights to Madeira as well as your accommodation at the best prices and your tours and activities in Madeira and discover the most beautiful beaches of Madeira. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Vila Cais da Gaivota" featuring direct access to the sea and a terrace.

10. Santa Cruz Beach

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz beach is one of the best beaches in Madeira. Located 15 minutes by car from the capital, Funchal (1 hour by public transport), this beach is also called "Praia das Palmeiras, palm tree beach.

With its jetty jutting out towards the ocean and its magnificent palm trees, it is a beautiful beach for photo enthusiasts and Instagrammers. Families will also appreciate the outdoor swimming pool located in front of this pebble beach. A "parque infantil", made for the joy of little ones is located near the beach.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Things to do in Madeira, the Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira, Best Viewpoints in Madeira, Best Things to do in Madeira for Nature Lovers as well as the Best things to do in Madeira with Kids. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club". Boasting 400 meters of private sea front.

11. Jardim do Mar Beach

Jardim do Mar

The long and narrow pebble beach of Jardim do Mar is one of the beautiful secret beaches of Madeira.

Located 50 minutes by car from Funchal, people come here to walk by the ocean, to observe exceptional views from the Miradouro de Jardim do Mar but also to surf. This spot is particularly popular with surfers.

For easier access to the ocean, park in "Rua do Portinho" and put your towel at "Portinho beach" which has sanitary facilities, bars and restaurants nearby.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Casa do Mar". This beachfront property offers accesss to a balcony with sea views.

12. Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Porto Moniz

The natural pools of Porto Moniz are one of the iconic places of Madeira. They are classified among the best instagrammable spots in Madeira and the best things to do with children in Madeira. The ocean waves fill the natural pools formed by the eruption of volcanoes. It is a perfect place for a safe swim in the heart of nature on this sublime island.

Nearly 4000 m2 of natural swimming pools await you in Porto Moniz. Shallower swimming pools are provided for children as well as a playground. Access for people with reduced mobility is also provided. You can park easily nearby. Porto Moniz is located northwest of Madeira (50 min by car).

Book your flights to Madeira as well as your accommodation and tours and activities in Madeira, such as a "From Funchal: Best of Madeira's West Tour".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Aqua Natura Bay". The seafront 4-star hotel features an indoor and outdoor swimming pool.

13. Lido Bathing Complex

Funchal

This is not a beach but a swimming pool with access to the ocean. The complex is a good compromise for those who want to spend a relaxing afternoon with the children while enjoying sanitary facilities, lifeguard supervision and nearby restaurants and snacks.

You can rent a deckchair for the day and dive into the ocean from the stairs at the tip of this place dedicated to relaxation. Ample parking is available outside.

It is a good choice for families with young children who want to enjoy a safe day of leisure. You can also treat yourself at the "Pure Atlantic Massage" or simply have a cocktail at the pool bar.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Quinta da Casa Branca" is a 5-star hotel set within a banana plantation in Funchal.

14. Seixal Natural Swimming Pools

Seixal

There are several natural swimming pools in Seixal. Probably the most beautiful is located near the "Posto de Correios" another is the pool located in the immediate vicinity of the "Praia do Porto do Seixal".

Blue sky and blue ocean blend perfectly in this unique place which will stay in your memory for a lifetime. Toilets are available and there is parking nearby. The descent is a bit difficult for people with reduced mobility or people with a pram.

Welcome to Paradise, welcome to Madeira.

Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities in Madeira, possibly the most beautiful island in the world.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay:  "Holiday Home by the Sea Pipas do Avo - Seixal". Just a few steps from Seixal Beach.

15. Faial beach complex 

Faial

With its natural pool and views over the north coast cliffs of Madeira, Faial Beach Complex is a small pebble beach with a natural pool sheltered from the waves. It is the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon as a couple or with the children. This beach has changing rooms and activities for children. The Faial beach complex is located a 30 minutes’ drive from Funchal.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Things to do in Madeira, the Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira, Best Viewpoints in Madeira, Best Things to do in Madeira for Nature Lovers as well as the Best things to do in Madeira with Kids. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Quinta do Furao" featuring stunning views of the nort-east coast of Madeira.