Family Holidays to Madeira

Best family friendly beaches in Madeira

Madeira might be better known for dramatic coastlines than huge sandy beaches, but there are plenty of family-friendly spots for a day by the sea.

• Machico Beach is one of Madeira’s few sandy beaches, with golden sand, plenty of facilities and a promenade lined with places to eat. It’s a great pick for families who want a typical beach day.
• Praia Formosa is just outside Funchal and is Madeira’s largest public beach, made up of a mix of dark sand and pebbles. There’s a playground, sports facilities and a long promenade, so there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy.
• Palmeiras Beach, in Santa Cruz, combines a pebbled beach with saltwater pools that all the family can enjoy. Plus, with changing facilities and places to grab a bite nearby, it’s like any other beach day.

Best family activities in Madeira

Madeira is packed with things to do beyond the beach, making it a great choice for families who like to mix relaxing days with a bit of adventure. Younger children can enjoy easy walks and gardens, while older kids and teens can get stuck into outdoor activities and boat trips.

• Ride the Funchal cable car up to Monte for sweeping views over the city and coastline, then explore the gardens at the top before making your way back down. You could even hop aboard one of Madeira’s traditional wicker toboggans for a fun and memorable ride back down the hill – certainly something the kids will remember.
• For animal lovers, head out from Machico or Funchal to spot dolphins, whales and other marine life in Madeira’s Atlantic waters – the best thing is, you can do this all year round.
• Near Santa Cruz, Aquaparque has swimming pools, water slides, fast lanes, a lazy river and a children’s area, making it an easy win when everyone needs to blow off some steam.
• Exploring Madeira’s levadas is another great activity for the family. Follow one of the island’s famous irrigation channels on a family-friendly walk through lush forests and mountain scenery, see if you can spot wildlife, take in the views and enjoy a stroll altogether.
• Head to Canical to visit the Madeira Whale Museum and get an insight into the island’s whaling history and the marine life found in the waters around Madeira.