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.
from €38
Check availabilityFamily Activities
Madeira works well with children as long as you plan around two things: the terrain and the sun. The best family days combine one short walk, one swim and one thing that involves a boat or a cable car.
Where to go
- Cable car to Monte
Fifteen minutes, huge views, no walking required.
- Praia da Calheta
The calmest sand for small children.
- Levada dos Balcões
Short and mostly level, with a payoff view.
Dolphin watching
Morning trips are calmer than afternoon ones.
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Guided options
2.5 hours Calheta Marina
Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour
A marine-biologist-led catamaran trip into the deep Atlantic, where pilot whales and three dolphin species are resident year round. Rated 4.9 from over 1,200 reviews.
from €74
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2 hours Funchal
Funchal Old Town & Monte Toboggan Tour
A private tuk-tuk through the painted doors of the Zona Velha, up to Monte and the famous wicker toboggan ride back down.
from €80
Check availabilityGuides on this subject
Family
Madeira with Kids
Which walks, beaches and boat trips work with children, and how to pace the week.
8 min read
Practical
What to Do in Madeira When It Rains
Rain on one coast usually means sun on the other. Here's how to use that.
5 min read