September in Madeira is still warm, with the sea at its warmest and fewer families than in August. In Funchal, daytime highs are typically around 26 °C and nights around 19 °C, with the sea at about 23 °C.
| Month | Day | Night | Sea | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 90 mm |
| February | 19 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 75 mm |
| March | 20 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 70 mm |
| April | 20 °C | 14 °C | 18 °C | 40 mm |
| May | 21 °C | 15 °C | 19 °C | 20 mm |
| June | 23 °C | 17 °C | 20 °C | 10 mm |
| July | 25 °C | 18 °C | 22 °C | 2 mm |
| August | 26 °C | 19 °C | 23 °C | 5 mm |
| September | 26 °C | 19 °C | 23 °C | 30 mm |
| October | 24 °C | 18 °C | 22 °C | 80 mm |
| November | 22 °C | 16 °C | 21 °C | 95 mm |
| December | 20 °C | 14 °C | 19 °C | 100 mm |
These are typical averages for Funchal on the south coast. The north coast is usually cloudier and wetter, and at Pico do Arieiro temperatures are around 10 °C lower. Average rainfall in Funchal is about 30 mm in September. Rain is rare on the south coast.
For live conditions, check the forecast of the Portuguese weather institute (IPMA) and mountain webcams before a sunrise trip. See the full-year overview in Madeira weather.
Excellent for swimming, Porto Santo, boat trips and hiking. The Wine Festival is in full swing, a good time for tastings and vineyard tours.
Find guided options in our tours and guided hikes pages.
The Madeira Wine Festival and the Columbus Festival on Porto Santo usually take place in September.
See the full calendar in festivals and events.
Yes, it is one of the best months: warm sea, good hiking weather and fewer crowds than in August.
Around 23 °C on average.
Light clothes for the coast, a warm layer and a rain jacket for the mountains, and shoes with grip for walking. Add swimwear and sun protection.
Self-guided snorkelling at your own pace in clear water with colourful fish. Equipment is rented on site, and a lesson comes before you start.
from €20 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Dolphin and whale watching on a classic catamaran with a cap of 18 couples. The 9 am trip in July and August lasts 2.5 hours without swimming; later departures include a 20-minute break.
from €40 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Group hike for walkers who want to see Terra Chã and Pico Branco, areas many visitors never reach. Pickup is offered anywhere on Porto Santo, and you walk with other travellers.
from €44 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
For early risers who want a sunrise above the clouds plus about 5 hours of walking on PR1 and PR3, without a guide. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Paddle in a protected bay and take a short snorkel break, with the gear brought along. Suits those who want light exercise combined with time in the water.
from €28 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A fast-boat outing for wildlife fans. Spotters on land help direct the boat to animals, and marine biologists on board explain the species seen.
from €45 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Suits anyone who wants to see the eastern peninsula from the sea: lighthouse, coves and caves, plus a swim stop at Cais do Sardinha. Departs from Marina da Quinta do Lorde.
from €37.50 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Relaxed guided walk at a pace that suits you, with stone terraces, a picnic area at the summit and a flatter path around Pico do Facho. Pickup is offered.
from €45 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.
