Calheta beach
Calheta boasts two stunning sandy stretches seamlessly united into one exquisite resort. Established in 2004 along the southwestern coast of Madeira, a visit to this idyllic destination has since been regarded as the quintessential choice for tourists seeking sun, sand, and serenity.
Photos
Beach description
Beautiful amber-colored artificial surfaces unite Calheta Beach with Machico. However, Calheta was the first beach to import sand from the Sahara. Subsequently, its "gold reserves" have been repeatedly replenished with domestic sand supplied from the continental coast of Portugal to protect the artificial surface from erosion.
The beach is 30 km from Funchal and a mere 10-minute walk from the town of the same name, Calheta, which translates to "Small Bay." This quaint resort has gained immense popularity not solely for its golden sandy expanse. Its other attractions include:
- A gentle descent into the ocean, convenient for children and novice swimmers;
- Exceptional water purity;
- The shallow depth of the bay, which allows one to walk to the very middle during low tide;
- An impeccable seabed near the shore;
- The predominance of cloudless weather, ideal for sunbathing;
- The safety of water activities under the vigilant supervision of lifeguards.
Long breakwaters, composed of robust concrete blocks, create a tranquil backwater area of 28.5 km². The beach itself, spanning 7.3 km², is divided into two distinct zones.
When is the Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Madeira for a beach vacation is typically between June and August. During these summer months, the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F), creating ideal conditions for spending time on the beach and swimming in the sea.
- June marks the beginning of the beach season, with fewer tourists and a pleasant climate.
- July sees a slight increase in both temperatures and tourist numbers, offering a vibrant holiday atmosphere.
- August is the peak of the summer, with the warmest weather, but also the largest crowds.
For those looking to enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds, the shoulder months of May and September can also be excellent choices. The sea temperature remains comfortable, and the island is less busy than in the peak summer months. Regardless of when you visit, Madeira's stunning coastline and beautiful sandy beaches provide a perfect backdrop for a memorable beach vacation.
Video: Beach Calheta
Infrastructure
The beach area is the property of a hotel, which explains its cleanliness and the comprehensive set of facilities available for exceptional recreation:
- Parking lot;
- Hotel accommodations;
- Umbrellas and loungers for rent;
- Showers;
- Changing rooms;
- Rescue service;
- Two bar-restaurants and several cafes;
- Supermarket;
- Volleyball court.
Sports equipment for water activities can be rented at the nearby pier, which also features yacht parking.
Where to Eat
Just a stone's throw from the beach, there is an excellent seafood restaurant offering tasty and affordable dishes. For instance, a delightful dinner for five people can be quite economical, costing up to €60.
Local cafes are always eager to welcome guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Patrons can expect a variety of dishes, including seafood salad, fish soup, assorted fries, homemade cakes, and excellent coffee.
What to Do
The leisure program offers a variety of activities:
- Wellness and rehabilitation procedures (spa, swimming pool, massage) at the hotel;
- Hill landscape trekking;
- Climbing;
- Exploring the protected area of the UNESCO-listed Natural Park;
- Ping pong;
- Daily musical parties;
- Photoshoots, particularly appealing at the observation deck of the Museum of Modern Art in Funchal, located just 30 km from the resort;
- Water activities: canoeing, windsurfing, water skiing, fishing, and organized tours to observe marine life (underwater turtles, whales, dolphins).
Excursions to the cities of Funchal and Calheta are very popular among tourists. In Calheta, the most visited places include:
- The distillery, where visitors are invited to taste the world's finest white rum;
- The sugar factory, which offers treats such as honey cakes and Madeira, the world-renowned brand of authentic Madeira wine, which has become one of the symbols of Portugal.
Weather in Calheta
Best hotels of Calheta
All hotels of CalhetaUseful information
- Shopping at a local supermarket for a maximum of €15 will provide free entry to the beach parking.
- The holiday season on Calheta lasts all year round, but the largest influx of tourists is observed from May to February. The big luck is to come here to 24 June, which is the birthday of Calheta, founded in 1430. The festival promises to be magnificent: with concerts, exhibitions, fairs.
- In souvenir shops it is worth looking at products with hand embroidery and weaving. There is a chance to buy masterpieces of applied art for reasonable price.