Calheta, on the sunny south-west coast, combines one of Madeira's sandy beaches, a marina and a contemporary art museum. It is also close to the Rabaçal valley and its famous levada walks.
Swim at the sheltered golden-sand beach next to the marina, visit the MUDAS contemporary art museum on the cliff above the town and take a whale-watching or sailing trip from the marina (see whale watching).
From Calheta, the Rabaçal valley and the 25 Fontes walk are about 25 minutes away, and Ponta do Pargo is a short drive west.
Yes, for sun, the beach and the west of the island. You will need a car or tours with pick-up.
A two-hour trip from Calheta on a rigid inflatable boat, looking for whales and dolphins off the coast. Suits wildlife fans; sightings are never certain.
from €60 per person
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Paddle from Calheta beach to the Cal islet or Zimbralinho beach and see volcanic rock formations up close. Suitable for children; the duration depends on the group.
from €42 per person
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A guided 90-minute paddle at Ponta da Calheta, a way to see this stretch of coast from the water. Suits visitors who want an active break from the beach.
from €42 per person
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An outing from Calheta to spot whales and dolphins in the wild, with a touch of adrenaline. Suits animal lovers who want a wildlife experience at sea.
from €60 per person
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A full day by jeep through the southwest, from Ribeira Brava to Ponta do Sol, with viewpoints, the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse and cliffs, and a lunch stop in Calheta.
from €65 per person
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Efoil lesson at Calheta beach for anyone after water-sport thrills without long practice. The boards are described as easy to handle, so fun starts in the first session.
from €175 per person
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Full day with a guide in an open-roof 4x4 on old roads: Campanário, Paúl da Serra at 1,500 m, Prazeres, Paul do Mar, waterfalls and banana plantations.
from €69 per person
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Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
Porto Moniz Natural lava pools on the north-west tip. 
Seixal Black-sand beach, natural rock pools and terraced vineyards on the north coast. 
Fanal forest Ancient laurel trees in the fog on the Paul da Serra plateau. 
Cabo Girão A glass skywalk on one of Europe's highest sea cliffs. 
Curral das Freiras (Nuns' Valley) A village deep in a ring of mountains, with a dramatic viewpoint. 
Ponta do Pargo The lighthouse at Madeira's westernmost point, famous for sunsets. 