Porto Santo Beach
4.6 / 5 Nine kilometres of golden sand in the Atlantic in Porto Santo, Madeira
Photo: Vitor Oliveira from Torres Vedras, PORTUGAL, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A nine-kilometre golden beach on the island of Porto Santo, with calm, shallow, clear water. It is a rare long sandy beach for this part of the Atlantic, and a Blue Flag section sits near the main town.
Practical info for Porto Santo Beach
| Access | Along the island: the beach is long and flat; the ferry from Madeira runs daily. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Near the main access points; Pestana section free parking not verified. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Sunbed concession at the main sections. |
| Food & drink | A restaurant and bars on the Fontinha section. |
| Good to know | Fontinha (720 m) has changing rooms and Blue Flag status; the beach runs about 9 km. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Porto Santo Beach
Sand beaches are usually gentle underfoot and easy for swimmers and children, though they can be exposed to wind and waves, so check conditions on the day. Bring a hat and extra water, as shade can be scarce away from facilities.
Access is rated easy, so most visitors can reach the beach without a long walk or special equipment.
The usual season runs June–September. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year.
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View Porto Santo Beach on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Porto Santo Beach
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 22 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. June and September are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Porto Santo Beach suits
Sand makes it comfortable for sunbathing, building sandcastles and long walks along the water line. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Parking near the main access points; availability is easier outside July and August. The beach sits at about 33.084, -16.299 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Praia do Seixal (81 km), Praia do Tonel (799 km), Praia do Beliche (799 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Porto Santo Beach?
Porto Santo Beach is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 22 °C in season. The ferry from Madeira runs daily, and the sand is also known for its mineral properties. Walk away from the town for space and quiet.
How do I get to Porto Santo Beach?
Access is rated easy. Parking near the main access points; availability is easier outside July and August.
What facilities does Porto Santo Beach have?
Sunbed rental, a restaurant, changing rooms, showers and toilets on the main section.
Where is Porto Santo Beach?
Porto Santo Beach is in Porto Santo, Madeira (approx. coordinates 33.0836, -16.2992).
Is Porto Santo Beach good for children?
Access is rated easy and the beach is sandy, which usually suits families. Check water and weather conditions on the day and keep children in sight near the water.
What should I bring to Porto Santo Beach?
Facilities: Sunbed rental, a restaurant, changing rooms, showers and toilets on the main section. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Porto Santo Beach?
Near the main access points; Pestana section free parking not verified. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Porto Santo Beach?
Sunbed concession at the main sections. Prices are approximate and change by season.
Beaches near Porto Santo Beach
Praia do Seixal
Seixal, Madeira · 4.4 / 5 · 81 km away
Praia do Tonel
Sagres, Algarve, Portugal · 4.4 / 5 · 799 km away
Praia do Beliche
Sagres, Vila do Bispo, Algarve · 4.6 / 5 · 799 km away
Praia do Castelejo
Vila do Bispo, Algarve · 4.4 / 5 · 804 km away
Praia da Ingrina
Raposeira, Vila do Bispo, Algarve · 4.4 / 5 · 806 km away
Praia do Zavial
Raposeira, Vila do Bispo, Algarve · 4.5 / 5 · 807 km awayBrowse all beaches in Portugal or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-18.