Porto Santo Golf, Vila Baleira - Image 1
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Porto Santo Golf

4.5
·184 reviews·Vila Baleira, Portugal

A challenging Seve Ballesteros-designed golf course on Porto Santo Island, offering dramatic ocean views and a unique island golfing experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Porto Santo Golf, Vila Baleira - Image 1

Porto Santo Golf

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A challenging Seve Ballesteros-designed golf course on Porto Santo Island, offering dramatic ocean views and a unique island golfing experience.

4.5
(184 reviews)

"The scenery on the back 9 is breathtaking, a truly spectacular course!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Golf Cart Recommended

The course can be hilly; a golf cart is advised for comfort and to navigate the terrain.

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in warmer months, carry plenty of water as the island can be parched.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seve Ballesteros Design

Seve Ballesteros Design

Entire Course

Experience a challenging and strategic layout crafted by the legendary Seve Ballesteros.

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Breathtaking Back Nine Views

Breathtaking Back Nine Views

Holes 10-18

Marvel at spectacular ocean vistas and dramatic landscapes on the course's latter half.

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Challenging Island Test

Challenging Island Test

Entire Course

Test your game on a course known for its difficulty and unique island conditions.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Porto Santo Golf

While Porto Santo is a smaller island, booking your tee times in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. This ensures you secure your preferred slot on this Seve Ballesteros-designed course. Consider package deals that might include accommodation and transfers for a smoother experience. Instagram

Island Transfer Logistics

Porto Santo Golf is located on Porto Santo Island, a short flight or ferry ride from Madeira. Factor in travel time and costs for this transfer. Many visitors combine a trip to both islands for a comprehensive Madeira golf experience. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn Mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Softer light, cooler play
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#madeiraisland #ilhadamadeira #madeiraisland🌴🏞️ #portosantoisland #portosanto #tunel #madeira #madeirense
@luisfastronic
9.5K likes • 249.1K views

🚗 Golf Cart Recommended

The course can be hilly; a golf cart is advised for comfort and to navigate the terrain. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in warmer months, carry plenty of water as the island can be parched. Reddit

Porto Santo Golfe novamente nomeado! 🏆 É com enorme entusiasmo que partilhamos que o Porto Santo Golfe está, pela segunda vez consecutiva, nomeado para duas distinções de prestígio internacional PELA World Golf Awards:🏅 Portugal's Best Golf Course (Melhor Campo de Golfe de Portugal)🏅 Europe's Best Golf Course (Melhor Campo de Golfe da Europa) Contamos consigo para nos ajudar a trazer estas disti...
portosantogolfe
17 likes • 918 views
a dream 🥹🏝️🗺️🌞🌊 Madeira: the golf trip I didn’t know I needed!!! 3 full days on the island was enough to play all of the golf courses (Palheiro and Santo da Serra on Madeira + Porto Santo on Porto Santo island) and experience the best of what island golf has to offer: 🩵 amazing views all around 🩵 great weather for golf 🩵 a charming experience 🩵 the kindest welcoming from everyone we met I hon...
ellieeskoog
2.3K likes • 48.1K views

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera! The scenery, particularly on the back nine, is stunning. Instagram+1

🤝 Friendly Staff

Expect helpful and welcoming staff who enhance the overall experience. InstagramReddit

Porto Santo golf is a real #seveballesteros design and a fantastic recommendation for your Madeira golf trip. A must on your list. #madeira #epicmadeira #madeiraisland#madeiralovers#bergliebe #discoverearth #earthroamers#roamtheplanet #madeiranowordsneeded#madeirabelongstoall #madeiratãotua #madeiraisland #sea#sunrise #lifestyle#island #islandlife #placestogo #instatravel#travelawesome#travelgram...
good_sundays
89 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Golf Cart Recommended

The course can be hilly; a golf cart is advised for comfort and to navigate the terrain. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in warmer months, carry plenty of water as the island can be parched. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera! The scenery, particularly on the back nine, is stunning. Instagram+1

🤝 Friendly Staff

Expect helpful and welcoming staff who enhance the overall experience. InstagramReddit

✈️ Plan Island Transfer

Factor in travel time and cost from Madeira to Porto Santo for your golf day. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(184 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Porto Santo Golf is lauded for its challenging Seve Ballesteros design and breathtaking back-nine views, offering a unique island golfing experience. While the course presents a tough test and the landscape is arid, the spectacular scenery and friendly staff are consistently praised. Some visitors note the subdued atmosphere and question the sustainability of the course in such a dry environment, but most agree it's a must-play for golfers visiting the region.

"Being a Seve designed course it was always going to be a hard test and it was but the scenery on the back 9 is breathtaking 👏👏"

mark glover

"Speaking for the cafe, we enjoyed a tasty dessert, nothing to blow your socks off. The location is pleasant but as a whole Porto Santo is parched. The additional pictures will show the picturesque landscape, a beautiful ocean with hills that seem not to have felt water in years. Which raises questions about the sustenance of a golf course under these circumstances. Ethical and economic. Perhaps in season there is a justification for it. When we visited in June there were maybe a dozen persons wandering around. Overall the atmosphere is subdued which may be a plus depending on your taste."

Eduardo Drivon (evdrivon)

"Brilliant course, really nice & helpful staff (gave me a lift back after the taxi failed to show). Some really spectacular holes on the back nine."

Will Jones

What People Like

Spectacular views
Challenging Seve design
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Arid landscape
Subdued atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Porto Santo Golf, you'll first need to travel to Porto Santo Island from Madeira. This is typically done via a short flight (around 30-40 minutes) or a ferry service. Once on Porto Santo, the golf course is accessible by taxi or rental car. Instagram+1

While there isn't extensive public transport directly to the golf course, taxis are available on Porto Santo. It's advisable to arrange transport in advance, especially if your flight or ferry arrives at off-peak times. Reddit

Yes, there are regular flights connecting Madeira Airport (FNC) to Porto Santo Airport (PXO). This is the quickest way to reach the island for your golf trip. Instagram

Ferry services operate between Madeira and Porto Santo, offering a more scenic but longer journey. Schedules can vary, so it's best to check the latest timetables with the ferry operator in advance. Instagram

Renting a car on Porto Santo provides the most flexibility for exploring the island and getting to the golf course at your convenience. Taxis are an alternative if you prefer not to drive. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tee times can be booked directly through the Porto Santo Golf website or by contacting their pro shop. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred slot. Instagram

Green fees can vary depending on the season, time of day, and whether you are a resident or visitor. It's best to check the official Porto Santo Golf website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Instagram

Many hotels and tour operators offer golf packages that may include accommodation, green fees, and transfers. These can often provide good value and simplify your planning. Instagram

Porto Santo Golf generally adheres to standard golf dress codes. Expect to wear collared shirts, golf shorts or trousers, and appropriate golf shoes. Specific rules can be found on their website or by contacting the club. Instagram

Yes, golf club rentals are typically available at Porto Santo Golf. It's advisable to inquire about availability and reserve clubs in advance when booking your tee time. Instagram

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

Porto Santo Golf is considered a challenging course, designed by Seve Ballesteros. It features undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and can be demanding, especially with the island's conditions. InstagramReddit

Many golfers rave about the spectacular views on the back nine, particularly holes 13 and 14, which offer breathtaking vistas of the ocean and the island's landscape. InstagramReddit

The course typically offers practice facilities such as a driving range and putting green, allowing golfers to warm up before their round. Instagram

The clubhouse usually features a pro shop, a restaurant or cafe, and locker room facilities. It's a pleasant place to relax before or after your game. InstagramReddit

While challenging, the course can be enjoyed by golfers of all levels. Beginners might find it more manageable with a golf cart and by focusing on enjoying the unique experience and scenery. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The clubhouse cafe offers food, with reviews suggesting tasty desserts. While not gourmet, it provides a pleasant spot to refuel. Reddit

Porto Santo Island has several restaurants, particularly in the main town. You can find local cuisine and seafood options. Instagram

Beverage carts may operate on the course during busy periods, and water stations are usually available. It's always wise to carry some personal snacks. Reddit

Expect fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, and local specialties. The island's cuisine is influenced by its maritime location. Instagram

For convenience and a pleasant atmosphere, dining at the clubhouse is a good option. For a wider variety of local flavors, explore restaurants in Vila Baleira, the main town. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The back nine holes, especially 13 and 14, offer incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island's rugged coastline. The clubhouse and surrounding landscape also make for great shots. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the landscape's colors. Instagram

Generally, you can take photos from most areas of the course. However, always be mindful of other golfers and follow any specific club regulations regarding photography. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted at golf courses and in protected natural areas. It's essential to check the specific regulations with Porto Santo Golf and local authorities before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details on the course or distant ocean views. A polarizing filter can help enhance the blues of the sky and sea. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Porto Santo Golf is primarily a challenging course for experienced golfers, families visiting Porto Santo can still enjoy the island's attractions. The island is renowned for its long, golden sandy beach, which is perfect for children to play on. Consider visiting the golf course clubhouse for a meal or a drink with a view, rather than playing a full round with younger children. Instagram

Beyond the golf, Porto Santo offers activities like boat trips, exploring the charming town of Vila Baleira, and enjoying the relaxed island pace. The focus for families should be on the island's natural beauty and child-friendly beaches, with the golf course being more of a scenic backdrop or a destination for adult golfers. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Porto Santo Golf can be managed on a budget by planning carefully. Look for off-season travel when green fees and accommodation might be lower. Consider booking tee times in advance, as some online platforms or package deals can offer discounts. Instagram

To save on food, explore local eateries in Vila Baleira rather than exclusively dining at the golf course clubhouse. When traveling from Madeira, compare prices for both flights and ferries to find the most economical option. Renting a car on Porto Santo can also be more cost-effective for groups than relying solely on taxis for transport to the course. Reddit

🏌️ Golf Enthusiasts

For dedicated golfers, Porto Santo Golf is a pilgrimage site. Playing a Seve Ballesteros-designed course is a significant draw, offering a unique challenge and a chance to experience his strategic vision firsthand. The dramatic scenery and the island setting add to the allure. Instagram+2

To maximize your golfing experience, consider booking a golf package that includes accommodation and transfers. Research the course's conditions and potential wind factors to prepare your game. Many enthusiasts also combine a visit to Porto Santo Golf with rounds at other courses on Madeira, such as Palheiro Golf and Santo da Serra Golf Club, for a comprehensive Madeira golf tour. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Seve Ballesteros Legacy

Porto Santo Golf is a testament to the design genius of the legendary Spanish golfer, Seve Ballesteros. Opened in 2004, it was one of his final course designs, and it carries his signature flair for strategic challenges and dramatic aesthetics. Ballesteros was known for creating courses that were not only difficult but also beautiful and enjoyable to play, encouraging creative shot-making. Instagram+2

This 18-hole, par-72 course is designed to blend seamlessly with the island's natural topography. Ballesteros masterfully incorporated the undulating terrain and the island's unique arid landscape into the course's design. The result is a course that demands precision and thoughtful play, rewarding golfers who can adapt to its challenges and appreciate its strategic nuances. The course has been recognized internationally, receiving nominations for prestigious awards, highlighting its quality and appeal. Instagram+1

Playing Porto Santo Golf offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of a golf icon and experience a course that embodies his passion for the game. The design ensures that each hole presents a distinct challenge and a memorable golfing moment, making it a must-play for enthusiasts visiting the Madeira archipelago. Instagram+1

Navigating Porto Santo Island for Golf

Porto Santo Golf is situated on the smaller, golden-sanded island of Porto Santo, a short journey from the main island of Madeira. This unique location adds an element of adventure to your golf trip. The island itself is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning beaches, offering a relaxing counterpoint to the golfing challenge. Instagram+1

Getting to Porto Santo involves either a short flight from Madeira Airport (FNC) to Porto Santo Airport (PXO) or a ferry service. Flights are quick and convenient, while the ferry provides a more leisurely experience with scenic views. Upon arrival on Porto Santo, the golf course is easily accessible via taxi or a pre-booked transfer. Many visitors choose to combine a golf trip to Porto Santo with a stay on Madeira, making it a dual-destination experience. Instagram+1

While on Porto Santo, consider exploring the island's other attractions, such as its famous long sandy beach, the Christopher Columbus House Museum, and the charming town of Vila Baleira. This allows you to fully appreciate the 'Golden Island' beyond just the golf course, creating a well-rounded holiday. Instagram

The Unique Landscape and Conditions

Porto Santo Island presents a distinctive landscape that significantly influences the golfing experience. Unlike the lush greenery often associated with golf courses, Porto Santo is characterized by its arid, almost desert-like terrain, with rolling hills and sparse vegetation. This unique environment creates a visually striking backdrop for the game. InstagramReddit

The conditions on the course can vary depending on the season. In drier periods, the fairways might be firmer and the rough more challenging, demanding accurate ball-striking. During wetter seasons, the course can become softer. The wind can also be a significant factor, especially on holes closer to the coast, adding another layer of strategic consideration for players. Reddit

This natural setting, while posing its own challenges, is also what makes Porto Santo Golf so special. The dramatic contrast between the golden-brown landscape, the blue ocean, and the meticulously maintained greens offers a unique aesthetic. It's a course where the environment itself plays a crucial role in the game, making for a memorable and engaging round. InstagramReddit