Island·Madeira

Porto Santo

Madeira's sister island — a 9km golden sand beach, dry and warm, the beach Madeira itself doesn't have.

OvernightWorth a night, not a base.

A worthwhile 1–2 night add-on for beach and quiet; not a destination on its own.

Source verified· Sep 1, 2026

Ideal time

1–2 nights

Best time to go

May–October.

Best for

Beach lovers who want sand with their Madeira trip; quiet seekers.

Car

Optional

Transit

Ferry from Funchal (~2h) or short flight.

Why go

A long, sandy, gentle beach (rare in Madeira), a drier and warmer microclimate, Columbus's house, and total calm. A 2-hour ferry or short flight from Madeira.

Why you might skip it

Small and quiet; little to do beyond the beach.

What to do

The 9km beach, the dunes, Vila Baleira town, Christopher Columbus house, a coastal walk.

What to eat

Grilled fish; bolo do caco; the local 'bifana' style.

Where to stay

Vila Baleira or the beachfront.

Getting there & around

Ferry from Funchal or flight.