The 16 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
From the 9 guides that rank for "best beaches in madeira"
Named by 6 of 91. Calheta BeachCalheta is one of two imported-sand beaches on Madeira, on the southwest coast.Two breakwaters keep the water calm, which suits toddlers and weak swimmers.
Named by 5 of 92. SeixalA black volcanic sand beach on the north coast, with cliffs and a small waterfall.Seixal is one of the few natural sand beaches on the island.
Named by 5 of 93. Machico BeachMachico has the largest sandy beach, crescent-shaped with imported sand and a rock wall for protected swimming.It is about half an hour from Funchal by car, with bars and restaurants nearby.
Named by 4 of 94. Praia FormosaThe largest beach near Funchal city centre, about 2 km long, with dark volcanic sand and pebbles.Waves can be rough because the sea deepens steeply.
Named by 3 of 95. Prainha (Caniçal)A small natural beach at the foot of cliffs near Ponta de São Lourenço.It is reached by car, with parking at the top of the cliff.
Named by 3 of 96. Porto SantoPorto Santo, a sister island, has a 9 km golden sand beach with turquoise water.The ferry from Funchal takes about 2.5 hours, so a day trip works.
Named by 3 of 97. Ponta do SolPonta do Sol is listed among the best beaches for swimming and sunbathing.
Named by 2 of 98. Ribeira BravaA pebble beach described as quiet and clean, near a church and a lighthouse.
Named by 2 of 99. Jardim do MarKnown for large, consistent waves, suited to experienced surfers.
10. Praia do GarajauInside a marine reserve below the Cristo Rei statue, with good snorkelling and diving.The shore is black boulders rather than sand, so aqua shoes help.
11. Doca do CavacasVolcanic pools with sun decks that suit confident swimmers more than families with strollers.The pools can close at high tide or in southwest swell.
12. Porto Moniz natural poolsSeawater pools in the lava platform at the northwest tip, closed when big winter swell comes in.
13. Praia do VigárioA pebble beach near Cabo Girão, described as drawing a big crowd every day.
14. Faial BeachListed among the top three Madeira beaches for swimming and sunbathing.
15. Calhau da LapaListed among the top three Madeira beaches for scenery and photography.
16. Praia de São TiagoA tiny pebbly beach in Funchal in front of a yellow fort, used by locals for a swim rather than sunbathing.Live fares. Watch them and we alert you when they drop.
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Travel guides most often name April to May and October as the best time to visit Madeira.