Praia da Calheta

Praia da Calheta is a beach located in the western region of Madeira, within the municipality of Calheta. It can be reached by a 30-minute drive from Funchal. The beach is characterized by its unique rock formations, mixed with sand, which gives it a sense of privacy and tranquility. The landscape is further characterized by the presence of Ilhéu da Cal, also known as Ilhéu de Baixo, a former lime extraction site. The exploration galleries from the mine can still be seen on the slopes of this feature. On clear days, the Madeira island's profile can be viewed in the distance from the beach. Praia da Calheta is known for its safe and clean waters, making it a popular destination for families with children. The beach is also noted for its soft sand and favorable weather conditions, with sunshine prevailing throughout most of the year. The beach is equipped with a variety of amenities for the convenience of its visitors. These include toilets, changing rooms, showers, a first aid room, and sanitary facilities. There is also a dining area on the beach where visitors can enjoy local delicacies. The beach also has a playground for children and bars offering refreshments. A supermarket close to the beach adds to the convenience of visitors. Praia da Calheta provides ample parking, including an underground parking area. However, due to the beach's popularity, it can sometimes be challenging to find a parking spot. For those interested in marine life, the beach offers snorkeling opportunities, with a variety of fish visible in its waters. A unique feature of Praia da Calheta is the provision of a dog water trough at the entrance, which can also be used for cleaning feet or filling buckets with water.