#458 European Rank Blue Flag Certified
Praia da Calheta
Calheta, Madeira, Portugal•Atlantic Ocean• Best Season: May, June, July, August, September, October
Photo: Don Amaro from Madeira Islands, Portugal (CC BY 2.0) · Wikimedia Commons source
EDITORIAL SCORE
4.43/ 5.0
SEA TEMPERATURE
23.4°C
August 30-year average
DAILY BUDGET
€52/day
SAND & SHORELINE
Golden Sand
Gradual Drop
Sea Temperature by Month
30-year monthly averages for Calheta, Madeira · NOAA satellite dataSwipe 12 months ⇄
Ideal Swimming
Jan
18.8°C
Air 22°C
Feb
18.1°C
Air 23°C
Mar
18.0°C
Air 25°C
Apr
18.4°C
Air 28°C
May
19.3°C
Air 31°C
Jun
20.9°C
Air 34°C
Jul
22.3°C
Air 36°C
Aug
23.4°C
Air 36°C
Peak
Sep
23.8°C
Air 34°C
Oct
22.9°C
Air 31°C
Nov
21.4°C
Air 27°C
Dec
19.9°C
Air 24°C
Swimmability Window · NOAA Climatology
Swimmable 17 Jun – 23 Nov (>21°C) · 159 days
30-year NOAA satellite climatological mean (1991–2020).Explore all Portugal Sea Temperatures
Score Breakdown
Scenery & Setting4.1 / 5
Water Clarity & Cleanliness4.8 / 5
Sand & Shoreline Quality4.7 / 5
Atmosphere & Safety4.8 / 5
Accessibility & Entry Ease4.5 / 5
Affordability & Fair Pricing4.2 / 5
About Praia da Calheta
Volcanic Madeira has almost no natural sand, so Calheta imported its own. Two calm golden lagoons on the island's sunniest coast.
Key Beach Facts
Official Records•Access: Located in Calheta on the southwest coast of Madeira island, with marina parking and boardwalks.
•Protected Status / Environment: Artificial golden sand beach protected by two large rock breakwaters ensuring calm swimming.
•Notable Feature: One of the few imported golden sand beaches on Madeira island.
Amenities & Facilities
Bathrooms
YesShowers
NoFree Parking
YesFood / Tavernas
YesGood for Kids
YesDog Friendly
YesLifeguard on Duty
YesSunbed & Umbrella Rentals
YesNatural Cliff/Pine Shade
NoWheelchair Accessible
YesSnorkeling & Watersports
NoNudist / FKK Friendly
NoGetting There & Local Notes
Getting there:
Located near Calheta, Madeira. Accessible via regional coastal roads (32.719°N, -17.177°E).
•Warm, calm and shallow; Madeira's easiest and safest swimming.
•Two man-made golden-sand lagoons on Madeira's sunny south-west coast, beside a marina below banana terraces.
Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway
INTL · 40m driveConvenient highway or local transit access across Calheta, Madeira, Portugal.
Are you a Venue Owner or Promoter at Praia da Calheta?
Promote your beach club, summer residency, or submit photo & data updates to Shores.
Frequently Asked Questions about Praia da Calheta
What is the water temperature at Praia da Calheta?
The peak summer sea surface temperature at Praia da Calheta averages 23.4°C (74°F), based on 30-year NOAA satellite climatology.
What type of coast or sand is Praia da Calheta?
Praia da Calheta is classified as a golden sand shoreline located in Calheta, Madeira, Portugal.
Is Praia da Calheta good for families with kids?
Yes, Praia da Calheta is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.
Are there parking and facilities at Praia da Calheta?
Free parking is available. Restroom facilities are present.
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