Seixal Beach
A breathtaking black sand beach on Madeira's north coast, framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. A true natural paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Seixal Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking black sand beach on Madeira's north coast, framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. A true natural paradise.
"Praia do Seixal was the first place on Madeira where I truly felt like I was on an island surrounded by wild, nature."
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Parking is scarce; arrive early or be prepared for a hike down. Avoid illegal parking to prevent tickets.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely need to hike down to the beach, so good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Black Sand Beach
Seixal
Experience the unique allure of soft, dark volcanic sand against the backdrop of towering green cliffs.
Picturesque Cliffside Scenery
Seixal
Marvel at the dramatic, verdant cliffs that frame the beach, creating a truly breathtaking natural amphitheater.
Natural Pools Nearby
Porto Moniz (near Seixal)
Explore the famous natural swimming pools carved into volcanic rock, offering a unique swimming experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Seixal Beach
Prepare for Seixal's Natural Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Parking is scarce; arrive early or be prepared for a hike down. Avoid illegal parking to prevent tickets.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely need to hike down to the beach, so good footwear is essential.
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Enjoy a coffee with a view to fully soak in the stunning Seixal location.
🌊 Be Ready for Waves
Seixal Beach often has significant waves, perfect for surfers but can be strong for swimmers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Parking is scarce; arrive early or be prepared for a hike down. Avoid illegal parking to prevent tickets.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely need to hike down to the beach, so good footwear is essential.
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Enjoy a coffee with a view to fully soak in the stunning Seixal location.
🌊 Be Ready for Waves
Seixal Beach often has significant waves, perfect for surfers but can be strong for swimmers.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The dramatic cliffs and black sand make for incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Seixal Beach is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring unique black sand and dramatic cliffs. Visitors are captivated by the picturesque scenery and the raw, untouched atmosphere. However, the experience can be marred by significant challenges with parking and limited facilities, requiring visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for a less-than-convenient visit.
"An incredibly beautiful beach with soft black sand. Amazing backdrop - however be warned the parking is crazy and you will probably have to to hike down the hill to get there. Police also issue tickets to illegal parking."
Tim Cooke
"★★★★★
Nature at its finest — all in one place!
Praia do Porto do Seixal is absolutely breathtaking. Imagine soft black sand under your feet, towering mountains behind you, a waterfall flowing nearby, and a gentle fog rolling through, it truly feels like something out of a dream.
You get ocean views, dramatic cliffs, misty mountain backdrops, and lush greenery all in one magical spot. The atmosphere is peaceful, raw, and beautifully untouched.
If you’re in Madeira, don’t miss this place. It’s a perfect blend of beach and mountain, pure natural beauty in every direction.
☺️"
Vahid Shahani
"Praia do Seixal was the first place on Madeira where I truly felt like I was on an island surrounded by wild,nature. The dramatic cliffs, lush green backdrop, and unique dark brown sand give it a truly paradise like look the kind of place you see on postcards or in travel blogs.
It’s no surprise that more and more influencers are discovering it, but with that growing popularity comes a real challenge. The beach is beautiful, but it’s not well prepared for large numbers of visitors. Parking is a serious issue there are barely any designated spots, so people end up leaving their cars in tricky and even unsafe places. If the weather suddenly turns (which it can this is an island, after all and you can easily get caught in a heavy downpour), it’s not easy to get back out if your car’s on the narrow roadside.
Facilities are another weak point. Toilets and other basic amenities are very limited, and that really needs improvement if this beach is going to be promoted as a tourist hotspot.
That said, if you go at the right time and come prepared (good shoes, a plan for parking, and an eye on the weather forecast), you’re in for something really special. The scenery is unforgettable, and the feeling of standing there with the waves crashing and the mountains towering behind you is something I’ll never forget."
Carlos Miguel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seixal Beach is located on the north coast of Madeira. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility. Parking can be very challenging, especially during peak times, so arriving early is advised. Be aware of parking restrictions to avoid tickets.
Public transport options to Seixal Beach are limited and can be time-consuming. It's generally easier and more convenient to reach by car. Check local bus schedules for potential routes, but be prepared for infrequent service.
Parking is a major issue at Seixal Beach. There are very few designated spots, leading many visitors to park on the roadside, which can result in tickets. Arriving very early in the morning or later in the afternoon might offer better chances.
Yes, you will likely need to hike down a hill to reach Seixal Beach from the parking areas. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential for this descent and ascent.
While you can drive to the vicinity of Seixal Beach, direct access to the beach itself is limited due to parking constraints and the terrain. Be prepared for a short walk or hike from where you can park your car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Seixal Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty freely.
Seixal Beach is accessible at all times as it is a natural public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
No booking is required for Seixal Beach. It's a natural beach, and entry is free and open to all visitors.
The main restriction to be aware of is parking. Illegal parking can lead to fines. Always check local signage and be mindful of the environment.
Seixal Beach has strong waves, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers and surfers. Always assess the conditions before entering the water.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Seixal Beach is renowned for its stunning black volcanic sand, dramatic green cliffs, and picturesque natural setting, often compared to a hidden paradise. +1
Facilities at Seixal Beach are very limited. Visitors should come prepared with their own essentials, as toilets and other amenities are scarce.
The sand at Seixal Beach is a unique, soft black volcanic sand, which can get very warm under the sun.
Yes, Seixal Beach is known for its waves, making it a popular spot for surfers. The conditions can be quite powerful.
The scenery is breathtaking, featuring dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and the striking black sand beach. It's often described as a dreamlike location.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While direct dining options on the beach are minimal, there are cafes nearby where you can grab a coffee and enjoy the views. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks.
You can find local cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of Seixal Beach, particularly towards Porto Moniz. Grabbing a coffee nearby is a popular suggestion.
Yes, a picnic is a great idea given the limited dining facilities. Just be sure to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
Look for local Madeiran specialties in nearby towns. Enjoying a coffee with a view of the beach is a highly recommended simple pleasure.
Food trucks are not a common feature at Seixal Beach. It's best to rely on nearby cafes or bring your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire beach offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the black sand to the dramatic cliffs and the ocean. Look for angles that capture the scale of the landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The dramatic fog can also create unique photographic moments.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The contrast between the black sand, green cliffs, and blue ocean is incredibly photogenic. Capturing the waves crashing on the shore also makes for dynamic shots.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check current local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the nearby Porto Moniz natural pools as a more family-friendly alternative for swimming, as they offer calmer waters.
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are scarce. 🏄♀️ Surfers and Wave Enthusiasts
If you're looking for a beach with more manageable conditions for swimming, exploring the natural pools in nearby Porto Moniz might be a better option.
However, for those who love the power of the ocean and want to test their skills, Seixal Beach provides an exhilarating environment.📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Be prepared for the challenging parking and the short hike down, as these are common hurdles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Seixal's Black Sand
This volcanic sand contributes significantly to the beach's otherworldly beauty. When the sunlight hits it, it can shimmer, adding another layer of visual interest. Many visitors find the experience of walking on this dark sand to be quite unique and memorable, a true testament to the geological wonders of Madeira.
Navigating Parking and Access
Beyond parking, accessing the beach itself often involves a short hike down a hill. This means that comfortable footwear is a must, especially if you plan to carry beach gear.
The Natural Beauty and Atmosphere
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful and almost dreamlike, feeling like they've stumbled upon a hidden paradise. The surrounding landscape is equally impressive, with lush greenery cascading down the cliffs. This blend of beach and mountain scenery is a signature feature of Seixal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit