The Best Beaches in Madeira to Relax and Swim
Madeira is famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush mountains, and hiking trails, but the island also offers some of the best beaches to relax and swim in Portugal.
While it may not have the wide sandy stretches of the Algarve, Madeira surprises visitors with crystal-clear waters, sheltered coves, and well-equipped seaside spots that offer comfort and safety.
Many of these beaches have been adapted to make the most of the island’s volcanic coastline, with easy sea access, swimming areas, and modern facilities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day in the sun or a refreshing swim, Madeira has beach options for every type of traveller.
The Best Beaches in Madeira
Calheta Beach: Imported golden sand and calm waters
Located on the island’s southwest coast, Calheta Beach is one of the few beaches in Madeira with golden sand. The sand was imported from North Africa to create a family-friendly beach with a softer surface underfoot.
The beach is protected by breakwaters, which help keep the water calm and safe for swimming. There are beach bars, restaurants, sunbed rentals, and lifeguards during the summer season. The area is also great for a sunset stroll.
How to get there: From Funchal, take the VR1 expressway and exit at Calheta. The drive takes around 35 minutes by car.
Praia Formosa: The largest beach in Funchal
Praia Formosa is Funchal’s largest public beach and one of the most popular on the island. It features a mix of black volcanic sand and pebbles, with several connected beach zones linked by a seaside promenade. The setting is lively and ideal for those wanting to stay close to the city without missing out on the beach.
This beach has lifeguards, a Blue Flag certification, showers, changing rooms, and plenty of places to eat and drink. The water is clean and refreshing—perfect for summer dips.
How to get there: It’s within walking distance from the Lido area, or take a city bus (such as lines 1, 2, or 4) that stops near Estrada Monumental.
Porto do Seixal Beach: Black sand and breathtaking scenery
On Madeira’s north coast, Porto do Seixal Beach is considered by many to be one of the island’s most beautiful spots. The fine black sand, lush green cliffs, and deep blue sea create a dramatic and unforgettable landscape.
The water is crystal clear, and while the northern sea can be rough at times, calm days offer ideal swimming conditions. A small beach bar adds to the relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for visitors looking to escape the crowds.
How to get there: From Funchal, take the VE4 toward São Vicente, then follow the ER101 to Seixal. The drive takes about 50 minutes by car.
Lido Bathing Complex: Urban comfort by the sea
Though not a beach in the traditional sense, the Lido Bathing Complex in Funchal offers a safe and well-maintained seaside experience. It features seawater pools, direct ocean access, sunbathing areas, lifeguards, and modern infrastructure ideal for families and older visitors.
Located in one of the city’s most touristic districts, the Lido is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and shops. Swimming here is easy and enjoyable, especially for those who prefer not to deal with sand or pebbles.
How to get there: Situated along Estrada Monumental, it’s easy to access on foot, by car, or by bus (lines 1 or 2) from central Funchal.
Machico Beach: Family-friendly golden sands
Machico Beach is another of Madeira’s golden sand beaches. Located in the town of Machico on the island’s east coast, it offers a calm bay that’s ideal for relaxing swims. The sand was imported to improve accessibility and comfort.
The surrounding area is peaceful, with cafés, esplanades, and scenic hillside views. Families with children particularly enjoy this beach for its gentle waters and amenities.
How to get there: From Funchal, take the VR1 to Machico. It’s about a 25-minute drive. Public buses from SAM also serve the route.
Ribeira Brava Beach: Small but charming
The village of Ribeira Brava, on the island’s southern coast, has a small pebble beach that’s becoming increasingly popular. Ribeira Brava Beach was recently renovated and now includes sunbathing decks, bars, and lifeguard services during summer.
It’s a great choice for a quick swim without leaving the town. The water is usually calm, and the atmosphere is more local and laid-back.
How to get there: From Funchal, take the VR1 and exit toward Ribeira Brava. The drive takes about 20 minutes.
Garajau Beach: A diver’s paradise
Garajau Beach, located within the Garajau Partial Nature Reserve, is one of Madeira’s top snorkelling and diving spots. You can access it via a cable car or a walking path. Although it has no sand, the beach provides direct access to deep, clean waters rich in marine life.
Ideal for experienced swimmers and snorkellers, the protected waters offer excellent visibility and encounters with various fish species and sea plants.
How to get there: From Funchal, take the VR1 to Caniço and follow signs to Garajau. The cable car is well-signposted and has parking nearby.
Reis Magos Beach: Small with a local vibe
Located in Caniço de Baixo, Reis Magos Beach is perfect for those seeking a quiet spot with good swimming conditions. It’s a pebble beach with diving platforms, lifeguards, and nearby support services.
The water is clean and clear, and the beach is surrounded by local bars and restaurants. It’s a balanced choice between nature and convenience, without large crowds.
How to get there: About 15 minutes from Funchal. Follow the VR1 to Caniço de Baixo and then take local roads to Reis Magos Beach, which is well signposted.
Tips to enjoy Madeira’s beaches
Even though many of Madeira’s beaches are pebbly or rocky, that doesn’t make them any less enjoyable. Here are some tips to improve your beach experience:
- Bring water shoes—especially for pebble or rocky beaches
- Check sea conditions, particularly on the north coast
- Use strong sun protection, as the sun is intense
- Swim during lifeguard hours for added safety
- Choose Blue Flag beaches for guaranteed water quality
Why Madeira’s beaches are unique
Unlike other Portuguese beach destinations, Madeira offers a different kind of seaside experience—closer to nature, with striking scenery. The volcanic pebble and black sand beaches have a special charm, often framed by dramatic cliffs and the endless Atlantic Ocean.
Sea temperatures range from 21°C to 24°C in summer, making the water ideal for swimming. Most beaches are also easily accessible and provide good conditions for all types of travellers, including families, couples, and solo explorers.
Conclusion
Madeira is a complete destination—offering mountain hikes, delicious local food, picturesque villages, and of course, beautiful beaches. From golden sands like Calheta and Machico to scenic seaside gems like Seixal and Lido, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply take in breathtaking views, the beaches of Madeira are among the island’s most precious natural treasures. Visiting them guarantees moments of pure relaxation and a genuine connection with the best that the island has to offer.
