Porto Santo Beach
A breathtaking 9km golden sand beach with clear blue waters, offering a serene escape and therapeutic sands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmest weather for beach fun
Porto Santo Beach
Best Time
Warmest weather for beach fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 9km golden sand beach with clear blue waters, offering a serene escape and therapeutic sands.
"9 km white sand beach, cool vibe, nice restaurants around and not too many tourists. Definitely recommended for a chill day!"
Pack for Wind! :cloud_with_wind_face:
The wind is a constant. Bring layers and a windbreaker for comfort, especially in the evenings.
Cool Waters Ahead :ocean:
The Atlantic water is refreshing, even in summer. Be prepared for cooler temperatures than you might expect.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 9km Golden Beach
Entire coastline
Miles of soft, golden sand meet clear blue waters. Perfect for long walks and sunbathing.
Vila Baleeira
Main town
Charming town with cafes and bars offering ocean views. The heart of Porto Santo.
Praia do Zimbralinho
Western end of the island
A more secluded cove with unique rock formations and calm waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Golden Sands
Day Trip or Overnight Stay?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Wind! :cloud_with_wind_face:
The wind is a constant. Bring layers and a windbreaker for comfort, especially in the evenings.
Cool Waters Ahead :ocean:
The Atlantic water is refreshing, even in summer. Be prepared for cooler temperatures than you might expect.
Ferry for Day Trips :ferry:
Take the ferry from Funchal for a day trip. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Golden Sands Galore :sparkles:
Enjoy the expansive 9km beach. It's perfect for long, meditative walks.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Wind! :cloud_with_wind_face:
The wind is a constant. Bring layers and a windbreaker for comfort, especially in the evenings.
Cool Waters Ahead :ocean:
The Atlantic water is refreshing, even in summer. Be prepared for cooler temperatures than you might expect.
Ferry for Day Trips :ferry:
Take the ferry from Funchal for a day trip. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Golden Sands Galore :sparkles:
Enjoy the expansive 9km beach. It's perfect for long, meditative walks.
Explore Beyond the Main Beach :hiking_boot:
Don't miss smaller coves like Praia do Zimbralinho for a different vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Porto Santo Beach's stunning 9km of golden sand and clear waters, calling it a perfect spot for relaxation and long walks. While the wind and cool water are noted, the uncrowded nature and beautiful scenery make it a highly recommended escape, especially for a day trip from Madeira.
"After a week spent hiking in Madeira, I decided to spend a day chilling at the beach in Porto Santo and was not disappointed!
9 km white sand beach, cool vibe, nice restaurants around and not too many tourists. Definitely recommended for a chill day! You can take the ferry from Funchal that takes you there in the morning and brings you back in the late afternoon.
Two things: windy so the weather can change fast and the water is quite cold...enjoy!"
Veronica
"Stunning beach with soft gold sands, the beach is well managed with lifeguards at certain sections and super clean!
It was not overcrowded which was great! Had a long walk along the beachfront and it was meditating."
Carol
"Nice beach and a big one. Was a good short retreat from Funchal."
Povilas Godliauskas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
๐ ๐บ๏ธ Getting There
The most common way is by ferry from Funchal, Madeira. The journey takes about 2.5 hours each way. Some visitors also opt for short flights from Madeira Airport (FNC) to Porto Santo Airport (PXO).
Once on Porto Santo island, local buses can take you to various points along the beach and to Vila Baleeira. Taxis are also available.
Yes, day trips are very popular! You can take an early morning ferry and return in the late afternoon. It's a good way to experience the beach if you're short on time.
Renting a car or a scooter offers the most flexibility to explore the island and its various beaches. Local buses are also an option for getting to the main beach area.
While flights from mainland Portugal and other European cities are available, direct flights from Madeira are primarily via short hops from Funchal.
๐ซ ๐ซ Tickets & Entry
No, Porto Santo Beach is a public beach and there is no entrance fee to access it. You only pay for ferry tickets or any services you use on the beach.
The beach is open 24/7 as it's a natural public space. However, amenities like cafes and bars will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening.
It's highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season or if you plan to travel on weekends, to secure your spot.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the beach itself. Standard rules about respecting the environment and not littering apply.
Ferry ticket prices can vary depending on the season and whether you are a resident. It's best to check the official ferry operator's website for the most up-to-date pricing.
๐ซ ๐๏ธ Onsite Experience
Besides sunbathing and swimming, you can enjoy long walks, beach sports, and explore nearby coves. Some areas offer water sports rentals.
Yes, Vila Baleeira, located along the beachfront, has numerous cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine and drinks with ocean views.
It can get busy, especially during peak season and when day-trip ferries arrive. However, its 9km length means you can usually find quieter spots. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
The sand is famously soft and golden, known for its therapeutic properties. It's a key attraction of the beach.
The Atlantic waters are generally cool, even in summer. Be prepared for refreshing dips rather than tropical warmth.
๐ธ ๐ธ Photography
The entire stretch of the golden beach offers stunning views. Capture the vastness, the waves, and the sunset. Vila Baleeira's promenade also provides great vantage points.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden light. Midday can be harsh, but the clear blue water is vibrant. The wind can add dramatic flair to shots.
Look for the natural rock formations at coves like Praia do Zimbralinho and capture the contrast between the golden sand and the blue ocean.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright sun and enhance the blue of the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐ง Families with Kids
While the water can be cool, it's usually calm enough for children to paddle and enjoy. The presence of cafes and restaurants along the promenade in Vila Baleeira means easy access to snacks and meals. Consider bringing beach toys and sun protection as the sun can be strong, and the wind can pick up. A day trip is feasible, but an overnight stay might allow for a more relaxed pace for younger children.
โ๏ธ Sun Seekers & Beach Lovers
Be prepared for the invigorating Atlantic breeze, which can be a welcome relief from the sun. While the water is cool, it's incredibly clear and inviting for a refreshing swim. Pack your sunscreen, a good book, and embrace the laid-back vibe of this beautiful coastal gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Therapeutic Sands of Porto Santo
The sheer length of the beach, stretching for approximately 9 kilometers, means there's ample space to find your own patch of this golden goodness. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read or a place to stroll and soak in the benefits, the beach delivers. The gentle lapping of the waves and the vast expanse create a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
While the therapeutic claims are anecdotal for many, the undeniable beauty and unique texture of the sand contribute to the overall relaxing and rejuvenating experience of visiting Porto Santo Beach. Itโs a natural wonder that sets this destination apart.
Navigating Porto Santo: Beyond the Beach
For those seeking a bit more adventure, consider venturing to the western side of the island to discover Praia do Zimbralinho. This more secluded cove offers a different kind of beauty, with interesting rock formations and calmer waters, making it ideal for a quieter escape. Other viewpoints like Miradouro da Portela offer panoramic vistas of the island and the surrounding ocean.
Getting around the island is relatively easy. Renting a car or scooter provides the most freedom to discover hidden gems and different coastal spots. Local buses also connect Vila Baleeira to various points, making it accessible for day-trippers who prefer not to rent a vehicle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit