Ponta do Sol

The sunniest spot on the island, with a pebble beach and a good sunset.

Pebble beach and cliffs at Ponta do Sol on Madeira's south coast
Photo: Paul Mannix · CC BY 2.0

A small south-coast town in a sheltered valley that records more sunshine hours than anywhere else on Madeira. Pebble beach, waterfront bars, and the trailhead for the Levada Nova circuit above it.

The seafront

A short pebble beach with a promenade, a pier, and cafés built into the cliff. It faces south west, which gives it one of the best sunsets on the coast, and there are lifeguards in season.

The town has become a base for remote workers, so the coffee is better than the size of the place suggests.

Local tips

  • Pair with the Levada Nova walk above town for a full day in the sun.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Levada footpath winding through misty Madeiran laurel forest
    4.5 hours Rabaçal

    Rabaçal & 25 Fontes Levada Walk

    The Rabaçal valley to the 25 Fontes waterfall amphitheatre and the Risco levada — Madeira's most-loved walk, with transfers and a guide.

  • West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups in Madeira
    7 hours Porto Moniz 4.9(372)

    West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups

    Visit some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer, this is one of the most complete tours you can do. From the Southern coast, through the centre plateau arriving to the northern coast. This tour stops in.

  • Catamaran sailing along the Madeira coast at sunset
    3 hours Funchal Marina

    Sunset Catamaran Cruise

    Sail the south coast at golden hour from Funchal marina — a relaxed catamaran cruise with a swim stop and the chance of dolphins along the way.

  • Family-friendly sailing boat on calm water off Madeira
    3 hours Caniçal

    Ponta de São Lourenço Boat Tour

    A calm coastal boat tour around the eastern peninsula's red cliffs — sea caves, swim stops and the easiest way to get the family on the water.

  • Madeira West Coast: Old West Road Private Vintage Sidecar Tour in Madeira
    3 hours Madeira 5.0(232)

    Madeira West Coast: Old West Road Private Vintage Sidecar Tour

    Indulge in a private 3-hour coastal and hillside adventure in Madeira aboard a classic sidecar motorcycle. Explore historic roads and visit some of Madeira’s most breathtaking viewpoints, including Cabo Girão and Câmara de Lobos.

  • Arieiro Peak, Santana & Ponta São Lourenço in Open Roof 4X4 Tour in Madeira
    7.5 hours Santana 4.9(247)

    Arieiro Peak, Santana & Ponta São Lourenço in Open Roof 4X4 Tour

    Get ready to explore the enchanting landscapes of eastern Madeira, where every moment promises lasting memories.

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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