Madeira Portugal is an island made for adventurers like us. I’m talking soaring peaks and wild hiking trails to natural pools carved by lava and black sand beaches that don’t feel real. If you’re building your Madeira itinerary, you’re in for one of the most unforgettable trips of your life. It blew my mind. Here’s a full guide to the best things to do in Madeira Portugal.

Madeira is a tiny Portuguese island out in the Atlantic bursting with adventure. Think rugged hiking trails, volcanic black sand beaches, cliffside cable cars, and natural pools carved by lava. If you’re building your Madeira itinerary, here are a few things to know before you go:

• Language: Portuguese is the official language, but you’ll hear plenty of English in restaurants, hotels, and along the popular hiking routes.

• Currency: Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, although it’s handy to keep a little cash for small cafés, parking, or local markets.

• Best Time to Visit: Madeira is a year-round destination, but spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are chef’s kiss. You’ll get warm weather, fewer crowds, and perfect hiking conditions. Winter is cooler and wetter but still mild, and is great for whale watching and lush green landscapes. Summer brings sunshine and festivals, though some trails can be busier!

• Getting Around: Rent a car. Seriously. The island is made for road trips, with winding mountain roads, scenic viewpoints (miradouros) around every bend, and the freedom to chase sunsets wherever they look best.

• Vibe: Laid-back island life meets adrenaline-packed adventure. You can spend the morning hiking Pico Ruivo, the afternoon floating in Porto Moniz natural pools, and the evening sipping poncha in a tiny fishing village.

LEAVE NO TRACE

Let’s keep this insanely beautiful experience beautiful! Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants. Use eco-friendly toiletries and dispose of waste responsibly. By treading lightly, you help protect this incredible landscape for future adventurers to enjoy.

1. Sunset at Pico do Arieiro

We did this hike twice because it was that good: once at sunset, and once at sunrise. Jagged peaks, a sea of clouds, and drool-worthy golden light makes this place feel totally ethereal. I’d recommend going for sunset–I know, I know, sunrise is supposed to be the thing to do here, right? The thing is, everyone else on the island thinks so too. Not only did we have to park a mile away from the main parking lot, but the line to pay for parking was so long that we were definitely risking making it up in time for sunrise. Sunset, we had no issues. We arrived plenty early, snagged a spot in the main lot, and the trail was much less crowded. It was a way better experience!

Pro tip: Check the webcams before heading up for possible cloud inversions. If the thru-hike is open, trek across these epic peaks to Pico Ruivo.

It’s the island’s most iconic hiking trail linking two legendary pico summits, but the hike was closed when I went :( Expect tunnels, stairs, and serious elevation gain. If it’s closed for you too, I highly recommend still visiting this second peak on a second sunrise mission, which brings me to number 2.

2. Hike Pico to Pico Ruivo

Pico Ruivo is the highest point on Madeira, and can be accessed from several trails, the most epic being the ridge line route from Pico do Arieiro. You can also reach it on shorter hikes from Achada do Teixeira if you want a quicker but still stunning climb.

However you get there, the reward is standing above the clouds with 360° views of the island. It’s a must do.

3. Go Whale Watching from Funchal

One of the most unforgettable things to do in Madeira Portugal is head out on a whale watching trip. Boats leave right from Funchal, and depending on the season you might spot dolphins, sperm whales, or even migrating species. It’s humbling, exciting, and the perfect way to connect with the wild side of the Atlantic.

4. Wander the São Lourenço Peninsula

Different planet energy. This trail feels more like Mars than Madeira, with colorful volcanic cliffs stretching into the Atlantic, wind in your face, and ocean on both sides. Unlike the lush forests elsewhere on the island, it’s raw, exposed, and all about the drama of the landscape.

We didn’t end up hiking the full peninsula. Major regrets. Instead, we caught sunrise at Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, and it was STUNNING. The cliffs glowed, the waves crashed below, and it felt like standing at the edge of the world. Next time, I’ll definitely be making the full hike a priority.

5. Get lost in Fanal Forest

Ancient laurel trees twisted into storybook shapes. Fog drifts. Moss glows. It’s spooky, that’s for sure. The area is pretty much one big field that’s easy to wander,j but keep an eye on your maps if it’s foggy. It gives snow white vibes. The spooky part.

The paths are easy to wander, but the atmosphere is what makes this place unforgettable. It was moody, cold, and wet when we went, which honestly made it even more magical. Bring a raincoat, even if it’s not raining. Trust me, the weather here changes fast and adds to the experience.

6. Swim the Porto Moniz natural pools

Lava meets the Atlantic and creates crystal-clear basins that are completely unique to Madeira. The Porto Moniz natural pools are the most famous, and for good reason: they’re easy to access and make the perfect stop after a road trip along the north coast. You can swim, float, or just hang out by the edge and take in the views of waves crashing against the lava rock. They’re photogenic in every light, and honestly worth visiting any time of day: sunrise for peace, mid-day for swimming, or golden hour for pure magic.

7. Cool off at Piscinas Naturais do Seixal

Another natural public swimming pool carved by the sea. Dark rock, bright water, mountain backdrop. Pair it with a stop at the nearby Black Beach.

8. Stretch out on Seixal’s Black Beach

Volcanic black sand, lush green cliffs, and mellow waves, Seixal’s Black Beach is a gorgeous stop. It’s rare to find a true sand beach in Madeira, and this one is perfect for both relaxing and playing in the water. The mild waves make it a great place for first-time surfers, and you can rent boards or book a lesson right on the beach. Bring a towel and stay a while cuz the contrast of dark sand, turquoise water, and towering cliffs makes this place insanely photogenic, especially at sunrise when the light hits the bay just right.

9. Drive under Cascata dos Anjos

Yes, under. The waterfall pours onto the coastal road. We decided to park and walk so we could hang out for a while. The sunset lights these falls aglow in a firefalls you didn’t know you needed. It’s insane to experience it in real life!

Pro tip: Stand on the south side of the falls to really see it light up! Most people stay on the north side for some reason and it’s way less cool over there. Pinky promise.

10. Gaze at Miradouro do Véu da Noiva

The Bride’s Veil waterfall tumbles gracefully down the cliffs into the Atlantic, and from this viewpoint you get the perfect angle to take it all in. It’s an easy pull-off between Porto Moniz and Seixal, so might as well, right?

11. Hunt down Cascata da Ribeira da Pedra Branca

Cascata da Ribeira da Pedra Branca is on Madeira’s north coast, and it feels like a total secret. It’s less visited than the island’s other waterfalls. You’ll have to turn off on to the old highway to see it (a drone captures the best view).

12. Take in the Views at Miradouro da Rocha do Navio

One of my favorite viewpoints on the whole island. Stop by Miradouro da Rocha do Navio to see a waterfall cut down coastal cliffs to waves hammering the rocks, and tiny farm plots tucked into the shoreline. You can even take a rickety little cable car that drops you straight into the reserve below.

13. Catch the horizon at Miradouro do Guindaste

Miradouro do Guindaste is a cliffside perch that feels like pure Madeira: dramatic, yet peaceful at the same time. It’s not as busy as some of the more famous miradouros, which is a nice break from the crowds!

Come at sunrise or sunset for the most magical light, when the cliffs glow and the ocean seems to stretch forever.

15. Stroll the walk-in only town of Jardim do Mar

A tiny coastal village where cars can’t squeeze in — you explore on foot through narrow cobbled lanes lined with stone houses, flowers, and ocean views peeking around every corner. Jardim do Mar is peaceful, colorful, and feels like stepping back in time. Grab a coffee, wander slow, and let the sea set the pace.

Where to Stay in Madeira

UNI Madeira Island (Jardim do Mar)

This spot feels less like a hotel and more like someone handed you the keys to a dreamy cliffside hideout. The studios are designed around the elements — Earth, Water, Fire, Air — and all of them have those floor-to-ceiling views that stop you mid-sentence. There’s a shared infinity pool, gardens to wander through, and sunsets that make you want to put your phone down and just watch. It’s remote, peaceful, and feels like Madeira turned down the volume just for you.

Socalco Nature (Calheta)

Imagine waking up on a cliffside farm where the chef grows your breakfast. That’s Socalco. The vibe here is slow mornings, garden-to-table food, and little eco cottages tucked into green terraces. There’s a pool, honesty bar, and paths that wind straight into nature. If you’re craving a reset, this place nails it.

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel (Funchal Old Town)

Right in the middle of Old Town Funchal, but it doesn’t feel hectic. Castanheiro is a cluster of old houses turned into one hotel, so it’s got loads of character mixed with modern comfort. The rooftop pool overlooks the city and the sea — perfect for a dip before wandering down cobblestone streets for dinner and poncha.

Santa Maria Hostel (Funchal)

Perfect for solo explorers. Set inside a converted school in Old Town, it has a social terrace, cozy common areas, and free cake (yes, free cake). Dorm beds start around €31: great price, great location, zero compromises on character.

Madeira Surf Camp – Porto da Cruz

For surfers or chill nature lovers. This century-old house turned surf hostel sits between mountains and the Atlantic. You can hop into surf lessons, lounge on the sun-drenched terrace, BBQ, and share stories in the communal kitchen. Unreal location, easy budget, and waves right out front.

Leave No Trace

Always remember to leave no trace–pack out what you pack in, leave what you find, prepare for every adventure, and respect the outdoors and each other every step of the way. Learn more about how to leave no trace here.

And if you do decide to venture out, tell me how it went!

Happy adventuring!