Machico Beach
Madeira's rare golden sandy beach, a sheltered man-made cove near the airport, perfect for relaxation and unique plane-spotting views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Machico Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Madeira's rare golden sandy beach, a sheltered man-made cove near the airport, perfect for relaxation and unique plane-spotting views.
"A man made cove, with golden sandy beach, a rarity in Madeira."
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough on holidays and weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for easier access.
🏖️ Sandy Beach Rarity
Enjoy one of Madeira's few true sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sandy Shore
Machico Beach
Enjoy the rare golden sand on Madeira, imported from North Africa for a unique beach experience.

Sheltered Marina Cove
Machico Bay
A calm, protected bay perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying the views of the harbor.

Airport Views
Machico Beach
Watch planes take off and land while you relax on the beach – a unique travel perk!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Golden Sands, Island Rarity
Convenience Near the Airport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough on holidays and weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for easier access.
🏖️ Sandy Beach Rarity
Enjoy one of Madeira's few true sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing day.
✈️ Airport Proximity
Conveniently located near the airport, ideal for a first or last stop.
🏊♀️ Water Temperature
Water can be cool, especially in April, so be prepared for a refreshing dip!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough on holidays and weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for easier access.
🏖️ Sandy Beach Rarity
Enjoy one of Madeira's few true sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing day.
✈️ Airport Proximity
Conveniently located near the airport, ideal for a first or last stop.
🏊♀️ Water Temperature
Water can be cool, especially in April, so be prepared for a refreshing dip!
🏐 Beach Volleyball
There's a beach volleyball court for some active fun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Machico Beach is praised for its rare golden sand and sheltered, calm waters, making it a pleasant man-made cove. Visitors appreciate the convenient facilities, proximity to the airport, and the unique experience of watching planes. However, it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, and parking can be a challenge.
"It's a ⛱️ beach. You can find food close by, which is a plus. However, it can get overly busy at times. I prefer to go during the week during 'working hours' to find a good spot."
Sol II Sea Music Duo
"Really nice small man made beach in a sheltered Marina cove, but if you crave a sandy beach on Madeira there is only a couple to choose from.
Shallow for a part then drops deep
Clean changing facilities, toilets and showers Free
Onsite Beach volleyball court and floating platform with a rocky pier
Crowded in peak but everyone lovely and polite
Worth the trip"
gregg lindsay
"A man made cove, with golden sandy beach, a rarity in Madeira. We love it, and drove around the town... tried to park our hired car, but no chance as it was a bank Holiday and the cars were all parked in the bays. And big crowds. Maybe another day!!"
TT Oh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Machico Beach from Funchal by car, taking approximately 20-30 minutes via the VR1 highway. Public buses are also available, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Yes, Machico Beach is very close to Madeira Airport (FNC), just a few minutes' drive away, making it a convenient stop upon arrival or before departure.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times and holidays. There are some street parking spots, but they fill up quickly. Consider arriving early or during weekdays.
Machico Beach is located within the town of Machico, so it's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the town center.
Regular public bus services connect Machico to other towns on Madeira, including Funchal. Taxis are also readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Machico Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
As a public beach, Machico Beach is accessible at all hours. However, facilities like changing rooms and toilets are typically open during daylight hours.
No, tickets are not required for Machico Beach as it is a public space. You can visit anytime.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but it's always good practice to be mindful of cleanliness and dispose of your waste properly.
The boardwalk and piers offer relatively easy access, but the sandy area itself might be challenging for wheelchairs. Facilities are generally accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Machico Beach offers clean changing rooms, toilets, and showers, all free to use. There's also a beach volleyball court and a floating platform.
Yes, Machico Beach is suitable for swimming. The water is generally calm due to the sheltered bay, though it can be cool, especially in cooler months.
You can find paddleboarders and potentially other water sports activities organized by local centers near the beach.
The sand at Machico Beach is golden and fine, imported from North Africa, making it a rare and pleasant sandy beach on Madeira.
Absolutely! Due to its proximity to the airport, you can often see planes taking off while enjoying your time on the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous eateries and restaurants located along the boardwalk and in the surrounding town of Machico, offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
Machico offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes and snack bars to restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Madeiran dishes.
You'll find several small shops and kiosks along the promenade selling snacks, ice cream, and drinks, perfect for a beach day.
Yes, the Baía Beach Club is located at the end of the beach, offering a terrace with sea views and a place to enjoy drinks and food.
You are welcome to have a picnic. There are plenty of spots along the promenade or on the sand to enjoy your own food. Remember to clean up afterwards.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique golden sand, the sheltered bay with its piers, and the planes taking off from the nearby airport. The Baía Beach Club also offers scenic views.
While the beach faces south, the surrounding town and harbor can offer pleasant evening light for photography. The sunset might be better viewed from higher vantage points.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the golden sand and calm waters. Late afternoon also offers softer light before sunset.
Yes, the proximity to the airport makes it a great spot for plane spotting and photography, especially during takeoffs.
Besides the beach itself, the Machico harbor, the town's church, and the surrounding hills offer picturesque backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The beach's proximity to the airport also means less travel stress for families with young children. You can easily fit in a beach visit without a long journey. Plus, the nearby eateries offer convenient options for family meals.
☀️ Sun Worshippers & Beach Lovers
If you enjoy a bit of activity with your relaxation, the beach volleyball court is a great addition. The nearby Baía Beach Club also provides a stylish spot to enjoy a drink with a view. It’s a well-rounded beach destination for anyone looking to enjoy the Madeiran coast.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Transit Travelers
Its location also means you can experience a taste of Madeira's coastal charm without committing to a full day of travel. Grab a quick bite at one of the nearby eateries, enjoy the unique sandy beach, and even watch planes take off – it’s an efficient way to add a memorable experience to your travel plans.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Sands of Machico
Despite its artificial origins, Machico Beach offers a comfortable and accessible seaside escape. The presence of a brick boardwalk and nearby eateries enhances its appeal as a convenient destination. It's a place where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of the beach, from building sandcastles to simply soaking up the sun, all within a picturesque setting.
Proximity to the Airport: A Traveler's Perk
This proximity also means you can easily incorporate a beach visit into a day trip or a shorter stay. It offers a chance to experience Madeira's coastal beauty without venturing too far from the main transport hub. For those who appreciate efficiency and want to make the most of their travel time, Machico Beach provides a perfect solution, blending relaxation with practical travel planning.
Activities and Amenities at Machico Beach
A notable feature is the floating platform and a rocky pier, which can be used for various purposes, from sunbathing to accessing the water. Local surf camps also utilize the waters here, indicating potential for water sports like paddleboarding. The nearby Baía Beach Club adds another dimension, offering a place to relax with drinks and enjoy views over the sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit