Calheta Beach
Praia da Calheta
An artificial beach of golden sand imported from Morocco, sheltered by breakwaters with calm water suitable for families to splash about.
Madeira's coast is mostly rocks and pebbles, so Calheta Beach, with its golden sand brought from North Africa, is one of the island's rare sandy beaches. Two breakwaters enclose a calm bay ideal for swimming with children. Nearby are a marina, restaurants and the Casa das Mudas contemporary art center, which you can visit along the way. A 19th-century sugarcane distillery still operates and offers tastings of aguardente de cana. It is about 40 minutes by car from Funchal and is often combined with Ponta do Sol and the 25 Fontes trail on a southwest route.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Levada das 25 Fontes & Risco (PR6)
- Ponta do Sol
- Fanal Forest
- Seixal Beach
- Véu da Noiva Viewpoint
- Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse
- Achadas da Cruz Cable Car
- Porto Moniz Natural Pools