Ponta do Sol lives up to its name: it is one of the sunniest places in Madeira. The small village sits at the mouth of a valley, with a pebble beach, a seafront promenade and colourful houses, and has become popular with long-stay visitors and remote workers.
Walk the seafront and the old town, swim from the pebble beach in summer and watch the sunset from the pier. Just east of the village, the Anjos waterfall falls over an old coastal road.
Above Ponta do Sol, the Levada Nova and the Levada do Moinho are two of the best walks on the south coast.
It is a good base for the west of the island, with more sunshine than Funchal and a quieter atmosphere. You will need a car or tours with pick-up to explore. See where to stay in Madeira.
Yes, if you want sun, a quiet village and easy access to the west coast. Funchal is better if you do not have a car.
A full day of about eight hours by 4x4, covering the Fanal forest, Porto Moniz and villages on the north coast. Suits those who want several highlights in one outing.
from €60 per person
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For thrill-seekers who like a jeep ride on an old mountain road. The zipline and giant swing are optional extras and must be booked ahead with Adrenaline Xtreme, in a slot between 11:20 and 13:30.
from €61 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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Levada walk above the Ponta do Sol valley, with small waterfalls, narrow paths and a picnic stop. The route may change if the weather is unsafe.
from €69 per person
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Day trip in a small group from the south coast over the central plateau to the north, with stops at Ribeira Brava viewpoint, Fanal Forest and the natural pools of Porto Moniz.
from €35.22 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. 