Calheta Madeira is one of the island’s most peaceful seaside escapes.
Here, you will find golden beaches, calm waters, and mountain views. In this guide, we’ll explore Calheta and what it has to offer, from its famous Praia da Calheta beach and local gastronomy to whale and dolphin watching Madeira, water excursions, and practical tips for your visit.
Join us as we discover this must-visit location.
The coastal beauty of Madeira
Around 32 kilometres west of Funchal, Calheta is a town that has a little bit of everything: beaches, nature, and authentic island life. This area is known as the sunniest place in Portugal, with over 2,000 hours of sunshine each year.
The municipality has around 11,000 residents and stretches from the Atlantic coast to the high plateaus of Paul da Serra. You can go from the sea to the mountain in minutes!
Calheta is also home to a small marina, lined with cafés and shops, as well as the Casa das Mudas Contemporary Art Museum.
What to do in Calheta
Typically, when people talk about Calheta Beach, they’re usually referring to Praia da Calheta. This is one of Madeira’s few sandy beaches. The island’s coastline is mainly rocky, so this beach, created with imported sand from Morocco, is a rare find.
The calm, turquoise waters are protected by breakwaters, making it safe for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkelling.
Beach facilities include
- Sun loungers and umbrellas
- Beach bars and restaurants
- Showers and changing cabins
- Free parking near the marina
The European Environment Agency (EEA) rates its water quality as “Excellent”, confirming its suitability for families and bathers.
If you prefer to enjoy the seaside without swimming, Calheta’s marina is perfect for evening walks. We suggest you stop for a coffee or a gelato and watch the fishing boats come in. A must-see spot is Lagoa do Calhau Viewpoint, which overlooks the coastline. It’s great for taking a memorable photo.
If you love hiking, Calheta gives access to some of Madeira’s most famous levadas (irrigation trails), like the Levada das 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall, both known for their vegetation and waterfalls.
When and how to whale and dolphin watch Madeira
One of the highlights of visiting Calheta is the chance to whale and dolphin watch Madeira in their natural habitat.
The waters off Madeira’s southern coast are known as some of the best places in Europe for whale and dolphin watching. This is because the ocean near the island has many deep trenches and nutrient-rich currents.
Over 28 species of marine mammals have been recorded around Madeira, including:
- Common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins
- Sperm whales
- Pilot whales
- Occasionally, blue whales and orcas during migration seasons
When to go?
Whale and dolphin watching Madeira is possible all year round, but the best conditions are between April and October. This is because the ocean waters are calmer and sightings are most frequent.
Tours usually depart daily from Calheta Marina with reputable providers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Year-round sightings | Weather can affect visibility |
| Ethical and educational tours | Must be booked in advance during summer |
| Opportunity to see multiple species | Some travellers may experience motion sickness |
Tip: Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. Operators often provide blankets and windbreakers, but it’s best to dress in layers.
What else can you do in Calheta?
There are plenty of things to do all around Madeira, but if you enjoy the sea, Calheta is one of the best places to take a holiday. The marina area has a range of activities perfect for all ages and levels.
You can go snorkelling or diving to explore the volcanic rock formations and spot colourful marine life. If you prefer something more leisurely, kayaking along the coastline is another great option.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another popular choice, especially on calm mornings when the water is perfectly still.
Alternatively, if you want something much more thrilling, we suggest trying big game fishing. There are excursions from Calheta Marina, giving you the chance to catch tuna, barracuda, or even blue marlin in the deep Atlantic waters.
Recommended excursions
1. Catamaran Cruise: A relaxing half-day trip combining dolphin watching with coastal views.
2. Private Yacht Charter: Perfect for couples seeking privacy or families celebrating a special day.
3. Canyoning in Rabaçal: A 20-minute drive from Calheta, enjoy waterfalls, jumps, and pure adrenaline.
4. Day Trip to Paul da Serra Plateau: Located 1,500 metres above sea level, it offers breathtaking views and walking trails through native laurel forest.
5. Explore Caniço: Only 45 minutes away, Caniço is a great local town to visit and explore its famous beaches, forts and promenade.
What to eat in Calheta
To start, try Espetada Madeirense. These are delicious beef skewers grilled over laurel wood, known as a true island classic. Next, try the unique Black Scabbardfish with Banana, a traditional Madeiran speciality. Complement your meal with Bolo do Caco, a warm, garlicky bread made from sweet potato flour that’s often served with local butter or herbs.
Finally, no visit would be complete without tasting Poncha, a must-try local drink made from sugarcane rum, honey, and lemon.
Insider tip: If you visit in May during the Sugar Cane Festival (Festa da Cana de Açúcar), the town fills with local music, dancing, and food stalls.
What are the top tips for visiting Calheta?
Calheta’s mild climate means it’s a year-round destination, but depending on your interests, some seasons might be better suited than others.
- Spring (April–June): Great for hiking and dolphin watching.
- Summer (July–September): Best for beach days and water sports.
- Autumn (October–November): Quieter season with fewer crowds.
- Winter (December–March): Ideal for walkers and those escaping cold weather elsewhere in Europe.
Getting there
- From Funchal: 40 minutes by car via the VE3 expressway.
- By Bus: The SAM bus service runs between Funchal and Calheta, though infrequently; a hire car gives you more flexibility.
Explore Calheta and its ocean life
Calheta Madeira is a beach escape, giving you access to nature and authentic Madeiran culture.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a peaceful solo trip, Calheta welcomes you with its calm waters, warm hospitality, and endless ocean views.
Ready to discover Calheta for yourself? Find your ideal accommodation in Calheta Madeira with Behomie.
