Praia de Machico Banda d'Além
A rare, family-friendly sandy beach on Madeira, protected by a harbor for calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Praia de Machico Banda d'Além
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare, family-friendly sandy beach on Madeira, protected by a harbor for calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
"A rarity on this wonderful volcanic island is a sandy beach. Although man made it is brilliant for families."
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough on busy days; arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your snorkel! The calm, clear waters are great for spotting marine life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Imported Sandy Beach
Main beach area
A rare, soft sandy beach on Madeira, perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles.
Calm Harbor Waters
Seafront
Sheltered by a harbor, the sea is exceptionally calm, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Marine Bird Mural
Near the beach
An artistic mural celebrating marine birds, created with recycled materials.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sandy Shores & Calm Waters
Beach Amenities & Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough on busy days; arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your snorkel! The calm, clear waters are great for spotting marine life.
☀️ Sun Protection
The imported sand can get very hot; wear sandals and use plenty of sunscreen.
🎨 Eco-Art Spotting
Look for unique art installations made from recycled beach clean-up materials.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough on busy days; arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your snorkel! The calm, clear waters are great for spotting marine life.
☀️ Sun Protection
The imported sand can get very hot; wear sandals and use plenty of sunscreen.
🎨 Eco-Art Spotting
Look for unique art installations made from recycled beach clean-up materials.
🥶 Water Temperature
The water is clear but can be chilly, even on sunny days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is praised as a rare, family-friendly sandy beach with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors appreciate the imported sand and harbor protection, though some note the public toilets could be better maintained and parking can be difficult on busy days.
"A beach for the general public with imported artificial sand. Excellent for swimming. There are relatively clean toilets and plenty of changing rooms."
Dor Smooha
"Beautiful Sunday beach, very clear water, no waves so easy to swim and snorkel. However, a bit cold if it’s not a hot sunny day."
Tim Cooke
"Lovely beach and great with kids. Is fully sandy which is rare on the island only a few. Parking is quite hard but we did come when the MUIT event was on. Also public toilets pretty dreadful but hopefully they sort that"
Jack Meddings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is located in Machico, on the east coast of Madeira. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby, though it can get busy. Public buses also serve Machico from Funchal and other towns, making it accessible without a car.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be challenging to find a spot on busy days, especially during peak season or events. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is conveniently located within Machico town, making it easily accessible on foot from most accommodations and amenities in the area.
The beach itself is sandy and flat, and there are facilities like changing rooms. However, accessibility to the beach from parking or surrounding areas might vary, so it's good to check specific access points.
Several public bus routes connect Machico to Funchal and other parts of Madeira. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
As a public beach, Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is accessible at all times. However, facilities like changing rooms and showers may have specific operating hours, typically during daylight.
No booking is required as it's a public beach. You can visit anytime. However, if you plan to rent sunbeds or parasols, you can usually arrange this on-site.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the beach, but always be mindful of local regulations regarding noise, littering, and safety. During events, there might be temporary access changes.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. There are also food trucks and nearby cafes for purchasing refreshments.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach offers changing rooms, showers (some are cold), and public toilets. Sunbeds and parasols are available for hire. Food trucks are often present.
Yes, the water is generally very clear and safe for swimming. The harbor setting creates calm conditions, making it excellent for all ages.
Definitely! The calm and clear waters make it a good spot for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the underwater environment.
While specific lifeguard presence can vary by season, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and swim within designated safe areas. Check for any posted signage.
Praia de Machico Banda d'Além features imported, fine golden sand, which is a rarity on the volcanic island of Madeira.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Machico town has several restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance of the beach, offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
Often, there are food trucks or kiosks set up near the beach selling snacks, drinks, and light meals.
In Machico, you can try fresh seafood, traditional Madeiran dishes like 'Espetada' (beef skewers), and the famous 'Bolo do Caco' (garlic bread).
Prices can vary, but generally, Machico offers a range of dining options from budget-friendly cafes to more upscale restaurants. Eating at local 'tascas' can be quite affordable.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can certainly bring your own picnic to enjoy on the sand. Remember to clean up after yourself.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive sandy beach, the calm harbor waters, and the surrounding Machico bay. The marine bird mural also makes for a unique shot.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for beach photography. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the water.
The imported sandy beach itself is a unique feature on Madeira. Also, look for the artistic installations made from recycled materials for creative shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the beach expanse. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan on getting close to the water.
Drone regulations can be strict in Madeira. Always check the latest local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone over the beach or populated areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While parking can be a challenge, the convenience and safety of this beach make it well worth the effort. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or grab something from the nearby food trucks. The unique marine bird mural also offers a fun visual element for kids to discover.
☀️ Sun Worshippers & Swimmers
While the water can be a bit cool, its clarity and lack of waves make it ideal for leisurely swims and even snorkeling. Sunbeds and parasols are available for rent, ensuring you can relax in comfort. Just remember to bring your sunscreen and stay hydrated!
eco-conscious Travelers
These projects highlight a community effort towards conservation and creative reuse. Visiting the beach allows you to appreciate not only its natural beauty (or engineered beauty) but also the artistic and environmental initiatives that contribute to its character. It’s a place where leisure meets a message of ecological awareness.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Appeal of Imported Sand
The imported sand contributes to the beach's appeal for those who prefer a classic beach setting. It's meticulously maintained, ensuring a pleasant environment for visitors. While it may lack the natural drama of volcanic beaches, its accessibility and comfort make it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, especially those traveling with young children who benefit from the soft, wave-free environment.
Family Fun in Calm Waters
The combination of soft sand and gentle seas means parents can relax while their children enjoy the water. The presence of changing rooms and showers adds to the convenience for families. Many visitors rave about how great the beach is with kids, highlighting the peace of mind that comes with such safe swimming conditions.
Art and Environmental Awareness
Furthermore, the beach has been a site for clean-up actions where collected waste is transformed into art installations. These initiatives, like the one by @europedirectmadeira, showcase a creative approach to tackling pollution and engaging the community in environmental stewardship. Visitors can appreciate these unique artistic expressions that blend art, nature, and a message of responsibility.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit