Praia de Machico (Banda d'Além) - Image 1
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Praia de Machico Banda d'Além

4.6
·331 reviews·Machico, Portugal

A rare, family-friendly sandy beach on Madeira, protected by a harbor for calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Praia de Machico (Banda d'Além) - Image 1

Praia de Machico Banda d'Além

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(331 reviews)

"A rarity on this wonderful volcanic island is a sandy beach. Although man made it is brilliant for families."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Imported Sandy Beach

Imported Sandy Beach

Main beach area

A rare, soft sandy beach on Madeira, perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles.

Calm Harbor Waters

Calm Harbor Waters

Seafront

Sheltered by a harbor, the sea is exceptionally calm, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Marine Bird Mural

Marine Bird Mural

Near the beach

An artistic mural celebrating marine birds, created with recycled materials.

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Planning Your Visit

Sandy Shores & Calm Waters

Praia de Machico Banda d'Além offers a rare sandy beach experience on Madeira, perfect for families. Its calm, imported sand and sheltered harbor make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, even for beginners. Arrive early for parking, especially on weekends.

Beach Amenities & Art

This beach boasts changing rooms, showers, and parking, though toilets can be hit or miss. Keep an eye out for unique art installations made from recycled beach clean-up materials, adding an eco-conscious touch to your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Após a ação de limpeza na Praia da Banda D'Além, utilizamos o lixo recolhido para uma instalação artística que poderá ser visitada nos próximos dias em Machico. A obra da autoria da @shezdefreitas contou com a colaboração do grupo de voluntários que participaram na ação de limpeza de praia. Agradecemos a todos pela participação e pela boa disposição e energia. 🇪🇺🇵🇹💛💙 #DiaInternactionalde Limpez...
europedirectmadeira
15 likes • 295 views

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be tough on busy days; arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel Gear

Bring your snorkel! The calm, clear waters are great for spotting marine life. Reddit

Mural das Aves Marinhas da Ilha da Madeira 🦤🌊 Foi hoje inaugurado o mural, na praia da Banda d'Além, com uma exposição com representações de aves marinhas. A equipas Ecos Machico aceitou o desafio apresentado pelo Projeto Eco Escolas em parceria com a SPEA-Madeira, para representar uma Alma Negra (Bulweria bulwerii), reutilizando materiais. Optou-se por embalagens de iogurtes, desmontando-as e u...
ecosmachico
42 likes • 600 views

☀️ Sun Protection

The imported sand can get very hot; wear sandals and use plenty of sunscreen. Reddit

🎨 Eco-Art Spotting

Look for unique art installations made from recycled beach clean-up materials. Instagram+1

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be tough on busy days; arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel Gear

Bring your snorkel! The calm, clear waters are great for spotting marine life. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection

The imported sand can get very hot; wear sandals and use plenty of sunscreen. Reddit

🎨 Eco-Art Spotting

Look for unique art installations made from recycled beach clean-up materials. Instagram+1

🥶 Water Temperature

The water is clear but can be chilly, even on sunny days. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(331 reviews)

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

Sandy beach rarity
Calm, clear waters
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Toilet cleanliness
Parking challenges

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

Yes, the water is generally very clear and safe for swimming. The harbor setting creates calm conditions, making it excellent for all ages. Reddit

Definitely! The calm and clear waters make it a good spot for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the underwater environment. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

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

Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is a top choice for families. The imported sandy beach is soft and inviting for little ones, and the calm, shallow waters protected by the harbor are incredibly safe for swimming and splashing. You'll find changing rooms and showers here, making post-beach clean-ups easier. Many reviewers specifically mention how great it is for children. Reddit+1

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. Instagram+1

☀️ Sun Worshippers & Swimmers

If you're looking for a classic beach day with ample space to sunbathe, this is your spot. The expansive sandy area is perfect for laying out your towel and soaking up the Madeiran sun. The exceptionally clear and calm waters are a dream for swimmers, offering a refreshing escape on warmer days. Reddit

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! Reddit

eco-conscious Travelers

For those who appreciate sustainability, Praia de Machico Banda d'Além offers a unique angle. The beach itself is a result of coastal management and imported sand, a human-made environment. More importantly, it's a site for environmental art installations made from recycled beach clean-up materials, like the marine bird mural. Instagram+1

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

Praia de Machico Banda d'Além stands out on Madeira for its imported, fine golden sand. Unlike the island's typical dark volcanic beaches, this sandy expanse offers a familiar and comfortable beach experience, making it a significant draw for families and sun-seekers. The sand is soft underfoot, perfect for lounging, playing, and building sandcastles, providing a stark contrast to the rugged, rocky coastlines found elsewhere on the island. This artificial sandy beach is a testament to creative coastal management, transforming the area into a popular recreational spot. Reddit

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. Reddit

Family Fun in Calm Waters

This beach is a haven for families thanks to its sheltered location within a harbor. The waters of Praia de Machico Banda d'Além are exceptionally calm, with minimal waves, creating a safe and inviting environment for children to play and swim. This tranquility also makes it an excellent spot for beginner swimmers and snorkelers who can explore the clear waters without the challenge of strong currents. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

Art and Environmental Awareness

Beyond its recreational appeal, Praia de Machico Banda d'Além is also a canvas for environmental art. The Mural das Aves Marinhas da Ilha da Madeira (Marine Bird Mural of Madeira Island) is a notable feature, celebrating the island's seabirds. This artwork, created using recycled materials, highlights a commitment to sustainability and raises awareness about marine conservation. Instagram

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. Instagram

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