Funchal, the bustling capital of Madeira, is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. While the streets of the Old Town echo tales of the past, the coastline offers a refreshing contrast with its stunning beaches.
Funchal’s beaches might not be the endless stretches of golden sand you’d find on the coast of Portugal. Nevertheless, their unique charm lies in their dramatic landscapes, clear waters, and the ease of access from the city centre.
Funchal’s beaches provide the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the Atlantic Ocean. Let’s explore some of the best spots you can visit during your stay.
Best Beaches in Funchal and Nearby
Now, let’s dive into the best beaches Funchal has to offer, starting with some city favourites and then moving on to nearby local hotspots.
Praia da Barreirinha
Just a short stroll from the Old Town, Praia da Barreirinha, also known as Barreirinha Bathing Complex, is a local favourite. Unlike your typical sandy beach, this well-maintained spot has concrete terraces that lead directly to the sea.
The complex offers a spacious sun deck, bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, and a bar. You’ll find parasols, sun loungers, and a first aid station, with a lifeguard on duty to ensure everyone’s safety. Accessibility is a priority here, with a lift and ramps making it easy for people with reduced mobility to enjoy the beach.
If you love swimming in deeper waters, Praia da Barreirinha is the place for you. However, since the sea can get quite choppy, it might not be the best choice for young children.
The sunbathing areas provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Funchal. It’s easy to see why Praia da Barreirinha is considered one of the best beaches in Funchal.
Praia de São Tiago
Just around the corner from Barreirinha, you’ll find Praia de São Tiago (St. James Beach). It’s located next to the historic Fort of São Tiago, adding a touch of history to your beach day. There’s a concrete esplanade similar to Barreirinha with access down to a pebble beach with some larger rocks in the water. As such, we suggest wearing booties to make getting in and out of the water easier.
The waters here are calmer than at Praia da Barreirinha, so much so that fishing boats often moor in the outer area after nights at sea. The inviting waters are perfect for a refreshing dip. However, it’s important to note that there’s no lifeguard on duty, so this beach might not be the best choice for families with young children either.
Right above the beach is a beach bar, making it a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon. The blend of history and relaxation makes it one of the must-visit Funchal beaches.
Praia do Almirante Reis
If you’re looking for a relaxing spot in Funchal, Madeira, you’ll love Praia do Almirante Reis. This small pebble beach offers gorgeous views of the mountains and the city bay. While it’s not your typical sandy beach, its natural beauty and peaceful vibe make it a fantastic place to unwind away from the crowds.
One of the best things about this beach is the calm waters, thanks to the breakwaters that create gentle waves. It’s generally safe for swimming, so it’s a good option for families. Just keep in mind that the beach has a steep slope and doesn’t have amenities like bathrooms or changing rooms, which could be a bit tricky for those with young kids.
Praia do Almirante Reis is also a favourite among the locals, making it a great spot for some casual people-watching. You can sit back, relax, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere as everyone enjoys a sunny day by the sea.
Praia do Gorgulho - Gavinas
Moving a bit further along the coast, Praia do Gorgulho – Gavinas is another great option. Located just 200 metres from the Lido Bathing Complex, this beach is a mix of pebbles and rocks, with some flat areas perfect for sunbathing.
The water here is exceptionally clear, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. There is no lifeguard on duty at Praia do Gorgulho – Gavinas so bear that in mind when going for a dip.
Families with young children might find the nearby Lido Bathing Complex more suitable as it boasts saltwater tidal pools, a kids’ pool and sunbathing areas.
The Lido area is also known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of nearby bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for a beach or complex in the area that offers both relaxation and entertainment, this is one of the best beaches near Funchal to visit.
Praia Formosa
Finally, we can’t talk about Funchal beaches without mentioning Praia Formosa. Located a bit further west of the city centre (about 10 minutes by car), Praia Formosa is the largest public beach in Funchal. It’s made up of a series of small pebbly beaches and a large stretch of black sand, which is quite unique for the region.
The beach is popular with locals and tourists, offering plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. With lifeguards on duty, swimmers can feel safe during the bathing season and families get to relax a bit more.
There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, making it easy to spend the entire day here. If you’re looking for a more traditional beach experience, Praia Formosa is definitely one of the best beaches in Funchal.
Come and unwind on Funchal’s beaches
Funchal is a city that offers the best of both worlds—rich cultural experiences in the Old Town and beautiful beach escapes along its coastline. With everything so close by, you could be exploring the historical streets one minute and lounging by the sea the next! Funchal beaches really do have it all!
Ready to soak up the sun on some of the best beaches in Funchal? Book your stay with Atlantic Holiday Rentals today and discover the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming you to this stunning part of Madeira!
