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Madeira’s beaches: Black sand, hidden coves and hikes along the coast
If your ideal vacation involves getting out there and exploring, Madeira may be just what you’re looking for. Nicknamed the “Flower Island”, it draws travelers in need of both downtime and adventure with its breathtaking coastal scenery, impressive rock formations and a handful of beautiful sandy beaches. Relax in one of the island’s idyllic bays, go hiking or cycling along the coast or try your hand at a few different water sports. It’s easy to make a vacation your own here.
While most beaches in Madeira are either rocky or pebbly, there are a few beautiful sandy beaches that are great for both swimming and sunbathing. Many of them sit beneath dramatically steep cliffs, giving the coastline a wild, untamed feel. Madeira may not be known for miles and miles of sandy beaches, but the few it does have are the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation to remember.
Book a flight to Madeira today on discover-airlines.com and get ready for an unforgettable time exploring the island’s beaches.
What to know about Madeira
Lying out in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago that’s around 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) south of the mainland. Setting foot on the island, you’ll be struck by the sheer variety of things to do and by how diverse the landscape is as well. Parts of Madeira have even been recognized as UNESCO biosphere reserves. On the island, you’ll find spectacular coastal scenery as the backdrop to your beach vacation or your day of hiking along the coast. Madeira has a subtropical climate, so temperatures are also pleasant all year round. Summers are hot and dry, and winters are wetter but still mild, making a visit worthwhile in any season.
That said, the best time to visit Madeira’s beaches is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. It’s the perfect time to enjoy its beaches to the fullest, and the island’s clear, turquoise waters are ideal for cooling off in. If hiking is more your thing, aim for spring or fall, when temperatures are a bit lower and the coastal trails are less crowded. Even in winter, Madeira’s mild temperatures are a welcome break from the cold back home.
Nature lovers will also be right at home on the island, with its varied landscapes and exceptional flora. Journey around the coast and watch as steep cliffs drop right into the sea or grab your hiking boots and hike along the coast before heading up into the mountains. Don’t miss out on a visit to the island’s botanical gardens or nature reserves that are a perfect complement to a beach vacation in Madeira. Culture lovers will be equally entertained, from the buzz of the capital, Funchal, to local festivals, like the Flower Festival and the Wine Festival, which take place every year.
The most beautiful beaches in Madeira
How to make the most out of your time on Madeira’s beaches
A little planning goes a long way. Keep the following in mind so you get the most out of your trip. First, pack for the weather. Remember that temperatures can reach up to 25 °C (77 °F) in summer, so light, breathable clothing and sunscreen are a must. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen in spring and fall and remember to pack a light jacket as well.
To stay safe while on Madeira’s beaches familiarize yourself with what they are like before you go. Some beaches, especially ones in more remote areas, won’t have lifeguards and some may not be suitable for swimming. Always check the weather and sea conditions before you set off and watch out for the currents as the sea can be quite rough. Whenever possible, stay on supervised beaches and follow all local guidance.
There are also plenty of opportunities to take part in water sports at Madeira’s beaches. If you’re planning on going snorkeling or diving, it’s a good idea to contact some local providers in advance who can help you find the best diving spots. Surfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle-boarding are also popular, especially along the windier stretches of the island’s coastline. If you’re new to surfing, head to Porto da Cruz or Machico, while more experienced surfers should check out Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar, known for their large, consistent waves. If you’re after an even bigger challenge, stick to the north coast. Fajã da Areia near São Vicente also offers some more challenging conditions, better suited to professionals.
Madeira’s breathtaking views of its cliffs and surrounding sea are best enjoyed on a hike along the coast. The Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada da Serra/Lombo do Mouro are two of the most popular coastal hikes, but don’t miss out on the route along the rocky coast of Ponta de São Lourenço. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, as the paths are often narrow and the weather can change quickly. Also take enough provisions and water, as well as sunscreen and a hat, with you. Expect significant changes in elevation too, meaning a coastal hike in Madeira can quickly turn out to be quite demanding.
Book your flight to Madeira today on discover-airlines.com and see the island’s beaches, cliffs and coastline for yourself.
January
Avg. Temperature:
15°C/15°C
Rainy days per month:
80-150
February
Avg. Temperature:
14°C/14°C
Rainy days per month:
70-120
March
Avg. Temperature:
15°C/15°C
Rainy days per month:
60-110
April
Avg. Temperature:
15°C/15°C
Rainy days per month:
40-80
May
Avg. Temperature:
16°C/16°C
Rainy days per month:
30-60
June
Avg. Temperature:
18°C/18°C
Rainy days per month:
10-30
July
Avg. Temperature:
20°C/20°C
Rainy days per month:
5-20
August
Avg. Temperature:
21°C/21°C
Rainy days per month:
5-25
September
Avg. Temperature:
21°C/21°C
Rainy days per month:
20-60
October
Avg. Temperature:
19°C/19°C
Rainy days per month:
60-120
November
Avg. Temperature:
17°C/17°C
Rainy days per month:
80-140
December
Avg. Temperature:
16°C/16°C
Rainy days per month:
90-160