Tucked along Madeira’s sun-soaked southwest coast, Calheta is a breezy little town that punches way above its weight when it comes to charm. Think golden sands (a rarity on this island!), cascading levadas, lush green hills, and rum-tasting spots that’ll warm your soul. In this post I will suggest things to do in Calheta, a map, and FAQs.
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Hi, I’m Hazel, a travel writer with a bit of a soft spot for Madeira. I’ve explored the island solo, and Calheta makes a great base – especially if you’re road-tripping the island or following my Madeira Coastal Itinerary. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this delightful corner of the island.
1. Hit the Beach at Calheta 🏖️
Yes, Madeira has a golden sandy beach – and it’s right here in Calheta! Imported yellow sand, calm waters, and a sunny promenade lined with cafés make this spot ideal for a lazy beach day. One of the few spots where you can ditch the hiking boots and go barefoot.
2. Visit the Calheta Sugar Cane Mill & Rum Distillery 🏭
History and happy hour collide at Engenho da Calheta, where you can see Madeira’s sugar production legacy up close. This traditional mill still roars to life after Easter, pressing sugar cane the old-fashioned way.
Even when it’s not in full swing, you can pop in to explore the small museum, soak up the history, and, of course, sample some local rum in the tasting room. A perfect blend of culture and a cheeky tipple.
📍 Av. D. Manuel I 29, Calheta.
3. Discover Casa das Mudas – Contemporary Art Museum 🏛️
Perched above town, this sleek cultural hub offers killer ocean views and cutting-edge art. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions, performances, and a café where the cake is almost as good as the scenery.
Tip: The building itself is a stunner – minimalist, modern, and perfectly blended into the cliffside.
4. Stroll Around Calheta Marina ⛵
A relaxing spot to sip a coffee, watch the boats bob around, and soak up that laid-back coastal vibe. Bonus points if you catch the sunset with a Poncha in hand.
5. Hike the Levada Nova Trail 🌿
Flat(ish), scenic, and dotted with jaw-dropping viewpoints, Levada Nova is one of those “I can’t believe this is real” kind of hikes.
Note: when I say flat, I mean mostly flat. It follows an old irrigation channel along the mountainside, which means it generally has a gentle gradient. That said, it can feel a bit adventurous in parts – there are some narrow sections and drops (often with railings), so it’s not ideal for those with vertigo. But in terms of physical exertion, it’s relatively easy-going for most hikers.
The jungle vibes, dramatic drops, and the occasional friendly lizard make it a firm favourite.
Pair it with nearby Levada do Moinho for a full morning of nature and snapshots.
- Further reading on levada walks:
- 16 of the Best Levada Walks in Madeira.
- My experience walking the Levada Moinho to Levada Nova Waterfall hike (with photos).
6. Go Wild with Water Activities 🐬
Calheta Beach isn’t just for sunbathing. Paddleboarding, jet skiing, snorkelling – it’s all here. Prefer wildlife over waves? Hop on a dolphin or whale watching tour for some unforgettable sightings.
7. Feast on Local Dishes 🍢
Calheta’s food scene is deliciously under the radar. Tuck into sizzling espetadas, grilled lapas, and fluffy bolo do caco slathered in garlic butter. Try Alambique for a special meal, or sample a bit of everything at the food markets.
If you’re curious to go a bit deeper into the island’s flavours, there are food tours and wine tours that give you a proper taste of local life.
8. Browse the Prazeres Sunday Market 🛍️
About 10 minutes uphill, this small-town market is all local charm – fresh fruit, homemade jams, hand-carved trinkets, and the odd unexpected gem.
If you’re a market lover, this one is just a cosy warm‑up for the best one, the Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal – check out my full post on that vibrant market here.
📍Caminho da Referta 144, Prazeres | Sundays from 08:00
9. Drive to Arco da Calheta 🌄
This scenic detour rewards you with sweeping mountain-meets-ocean views and sleepy village vibes. It’s a great spot for a quick stop and a few snaps, especially around golden hour.
If you’re thinking of hiring a car in Madeira, Discover Cars is a good shout. It compares different companies so you can find a decent deal. You can pick up your car at the airport or in a few other spots around the island.
10. Chill Out at Calhau Beach Club 🍸
Think Ibiza but Madeiran. Sunbeds, cocktails, Balearic beats, and a rugged coastal setting. Great for a lazy afternoon or pre-dinner drinks with a sea breeze.
📍 Rua da Serra D’Água, opposite the Savoy Saccharum (read my Savoy review).
Where to Stay in Calheta 🏨
I stayed at the Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa and absolutely loved it – beach views, rooftop pool, and top-notch service (read my review here). Other solid options include:
- Quinta Alegre – Lovely gardens, pool, and peaceful surroundings
- Hotel Jardim Atlantico – Just outside Calheta, ideal for walkers
🏨 Search all hotels in Calheta on Booking.com
Final Thoughts on Calheta ✨
Whether you’re here to hike, relax, or eat your way through every local delicacy, Calheta is a small town with big heart. It’s the kind of place that sneaks into your favourites list without trying too hard. Sun, sugarcane, and a side of rum? Don’t mind if I do.
✈️ Check out my 12-Day Madeira Coastal Itinerary or 7-Day Western Madeira Road Trip for more island inspo.
Map of Calheta: See It All at a Glance 🗺️
Here’s a handy Google Map with all the spots mentioned in this post pinned and ready to explore. Click the blue icons for more details, save it to your own Google Maps by hitting the star, and use it to plan your Calheta adventure with ease!
FAQs About Things to do in Calheta 💡
Got questions about visiting Calheta? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common things people ask – from how to get there, to what to eat, and where to catch the best views.
A: While Calheta itself is walkable, having a car makes a huge difference if you want to explore beyond the marina and beach. Public transport is limited, and many of Madeira’s best levada walks, viewpoints, and hidden gems are only accessible by car. I recommend booking in advance through Discover Cars for the best deals and insurance options.
If you’re following my Madeira Coastal Itinerary or planning to visit places like Fanal Forest or Paul do Mar, a hire car is definitely the way to go.
A: Yes! It’s one of the few sandy beaches on Madeira with calm, swimmable waters – ideal for a dip or a day of sunbathing.
A: The Levada Nova trail is a top pick for easygoing adventure and epic views. For something more dramatic, the 25 Fontes hike in nearby Rabaçal is also amazing. See my list of 16 best levadas in Madeira for the full lowdown.
A: You’ll find Poncha all over town, from casual beach bars to traditional taverns. Try the Calhau Beach Bar in front of the Savoy Saccharum hotel. It’s strong, zesty, and totally part of the local experience.
A: Alambique and the restaurants inside the Savoy Saccharum are local favourites. Look out for fresh seafood, espetada skewers, and buttery bolo do caco. Just across from the marina, Manifattura Di Gelato is your go-to for artisanal gelato, but they also do excellent homemade pasta, local seafood, and proper espresso. Try the passionfruit gelato if it’s on.
A: You sure can. Head to Engenho da Calheta to explore Madeira’s rum-making history and enjoy a tasting or two.
A: Spring to autumn is ideal for sunshine and outdoor exploring. Visit in late June if you want to catch the lively Festas de São João (I caught it by accident and was glad I did).
A: Solo travellers love Calheta. It’s safe, scenic, and full of solo-friendly activities like hiking, market browsing, and relaxed beach days.
A: It’s about a 40-minute drive from Funchal. Hiring a car gives you more flexibility, especially if you want to explore nearby spots like Ponta do Pargo or Jardim do Mar.
A: Yes – including whale and dolphin watching, levada hikes, and guided food and wine experiences. You can book many of them online in advance.
Recommended Tours from Calheta 🎟️
- Whale Watching & Dolphin Tour – departs from Calheta Marina.
- Tour of Ponta da Sao Lourenco – a dramatic peninsula of volcanic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and raw natural beauty. Pickup from Calheta.
- 25 Fountains Levada Walk – guided hike through one of the most amazing levada trails. Pickup from Calheta.
(You can book tours via Viator or local tour desks.)
Related Posts You Might Like 📚
Planning a bigger Madeira adventure? These blog posts will help you explore even more of this magical island:
🗓️ 12-Day Madeira Coastal Itinerary – A full road trip route hugging the island’s jaw-dropping coastline.
🗓️ 7-Day Western Madeira Road Trip – Explore the wilder, greener side of the island.
🏨 Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa Review Calheta: A Dreamy Cliffside Escape.
🏛️ 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira – From botanical gardens to bustling markets.
🐬 15 Excellent Things to Do in Porto Moniz – Think natural pools, lava cliffs, and ocean drama.
🥗 Food in Madeira: What to Eat and Drink – Your tasty guide to local flavours (and Poncha etiquette).
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Tags: Europe, Islands, Madeira, Portugal
We are in calheta at present of you don’t want to hire a car you are not stuck, the bus service is twice day. Not very good time. You can walk on the beach front which is flat. But venture off your walking up steep streets so not for people with mobility issues. Staying at the Savoy beach hotel. To go in to Funchal 28 euros return. Not a place I would return to due to lack transport
Not much to see by foot.
Next time I stay in funchal, so I don’t think this a true accomodation visits here are over 60
Yes, I agree Funchal may be better for those without a car, and those with mobility issues. Madeira in general is not very mobility-friendly, as it is mountainous with steep slopes, cliffs, valleys, and ravines.