Caniço, just east of Funchal, is a quieter alternative base with sea-view hotels in Caniço de Baixo, the Cristo Rei statue at Garajau and one of Madeira's best spots for snorkelling and diving.
The Cristo Rei statue at Ponta do Garajau stands on a cliff above the sea, with views over Funchal bay. Below it, the Garajau marine reserve has clear water and rich marine life: snorkelling, diving and kayak tours start nearby (see canyoning and adventure).
Caniço de Baixo has sea-water pools and rocky swimming platforms used by the hotels and visitors.
It is calmer than Funchal, close to the airport and well served by tours with pick-up. See where to stay in Madeira.
No, about 15 minutes by car, with regular buses.
Ride a tuk-tuk between clifftop ocean viewpoints, Cristo Rei and central Funchal, with a guide explaining island history and culture. Suits anyone who wants photo stops without hiking.
from €44 per person
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Off-road trip for anyone who wants mountain and coast views in one outing: Largo do Miranda, Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), Santa Cruz's terraces and the Cristo Rei viewpoint.
from €45 per person
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Open-roof off-road ride for those who like to take in the scenery from the vehicle: Largo do Miranda, Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), Santo da Serra, Santa Cruz and Cristo Rei.
from €45 per person
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Guided walk along the Garajau coast combining cliff jumping, free climbing, swimming and snorkelling. Suits active visitors who are happy in the water.
from €65 per person
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Mountain views from Pico do Arieiro at 1,818 m, an open-roof drive through forest and farm terraces near Santa Cruz. It ends at the port, where the catamaran trip begins.
from €89 per person
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Half-day catamaran outing for certified divers with two guided dives: the Garajau reserve and the Afonso Cerqueira wreck. Small groups, with a light lunch on board between dives.
from €633.34 per person
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Half-day paddle along the Garajau coast with plenty of time to snorkel and swim in clear water. Offered in summer only, so plan your dates accordingly.
from €49 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
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. 