4 Tage

4-Day Itinerary for Porto Santo

What you'll do

Before heading to Porto Santo, make sure to read my article, where I’ve compiled all the essential information you need to know for visiting the island. From practical tips to hidden gems, it’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your trip!

Porto Santo is renowned for its golden beaches, making it a prime beach destination. However, it also offers plenty for those who love to explore the island’s hidden corners. This 4-day itinerary includes visits to the main viewpoints and attractions, along with all three official hiking trails that can comfortably be completed within this timeframe.

In my opinion, a 4-day vacation on Porto Santo is the perfect balance—enough time to enjoy both relaxing beach days and active adventures. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on its pristine shores or hiking to uncover its natural beauty, this itinerary ensures you make the most of your stay.

Day 1

1

car_rental

Five Rent-a-car

Affordable car rentals in Porto Santo

Five Rent-a-Car is a top choice for car rentals in Porto Santo, offering a diverse fleet of updated vehicles at affordable rates. With convenient services like airport pick-up and ferry pick-up, as well as 24-hour assistance, they aim to provide customers with a seamless and satisfying experience.

I personally rented a car from this company, and the process couldn’t have been smoother. They delivered the car directly to the ferry upon my arrival, which was incredibly convenient. A €100 deposit was blocked on my card, and for the drop-off, I simply left the car at the ferry terminal with the keys inside—this was their official procedure! The next day, the deposit was already back in my account.

If you’re visiting Porto Santo and need a hassle-free car rental experience, I highly recommend Five Rent-a-Car. Whether you’re arriving by plane or ferry, they’ve got you covered.

2

Hotel

Pestana Porto Santo

Luxury beach resort in Madeira

Pestana Porto Santo is a 5-star all-inclusive beach resort located on the stunning Porto Santo Island in Madeira, Portugal. With direct access to the island's best beach, guests can enjoy 2 large swimming pools, 3 restaurants, and 3 bars. The hotel also offers a range of facilities including a spa, gym, sports fields, and game rooms. Perfect for a relaxing getaway with a touch of luxury by the sea.

3

Strand

Porto Santo beach

Golden beach with crystal waters

Porto Santo Beach, stretching nearly 9 kilometers along the southern coast of Porto Santo Island, is renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach’s sand is believed to possess therapeutic properties due to its rich mineral content, including calcium and magnesium, making it popular for health and wellness tourism.

Porto Santo is a favorite getaway spot for Madeirans, as there are no comparable beaches on Madeira itself. The island’s unique shoreline, combined with its tranquil ambiance, makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and international travelers.

In recognition of its exceptional qualities, Porto Santo Beach has received several prestigious awards:

Europe’s Leading Beach Destination 2024: Awarded by the World Travel Awards, acknowledging its outstanding appeal among European beaches.

Best Beach in Europe 2022: Granted by European Best Destinations, highlighting its pristine environment and visitor satisfaction.

These accolades, coupled with its local popularity and unmatched natural beauty, truly set Porto Santo apart as an interesting and worthwhile destination. Its internationally recognized beaches are reason enough to plan a trip to this enchanting island.

4

Restaurant

Restaurante O Calhetas

Seafood with ocean view delight

Restaurante O Calhetas is a charming eatery located at Ponta da Calheta on Porto Santo Island. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes, it offers a delightful dining experience with stunning ocean views. The menu features local specialties like grilled fish and octopus, all prepared with authentic flavors.

The restaurant’s ambiance is relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot for both lunch and dinner. With its picturesque setting and delicious cuisine, Restaurante O Calhetas provides a memorable dining experience on Porto Santo Island.

5

Strand

Ponta da Calheta

Sandy beach with stunning views

Ponta da Calheta Beach is a picturesque spot located at the southern tip of Porto Santo Island. Unlike the main 9-kilometer stretch of golden sands, Ponta da Calheta offers a more secluded and tranquil environment, characterized by a blend of sandy shores and rocky formations.

This beach is connected to the main beach, allowing visitors to enjoy a continuous shoreline experience. It’s an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the more frequented areas. The best time to visit Ponta da Calheta is during the late afternoon, as it provides a serene setting to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

Ponta da Calheta is recommended for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and tranquility. Its unique landscape, combining sand and rocks, offers a different experience compared to the main beach, making it a must-visit for those exploring Porto Santo.

6

Besichtigung

Miradouro das Flores

Picturesque viewpoint in Porto Santo

Miradouro das Flores, which translates to “Viewpoint of Flowers,” is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots on Porto Santo. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coastline, golden beaches, and the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. On clear days, you can even see the silhouette of Madeira on the horizon.

The name of the viewpoint reflects the rich vegetation that surrounds the area. While Porto Santo is generally known for its dry landscapes, Miradouro das Flores stands out with its greenery, especially in spring, when local plants and shrubs are in full bloom. This natural beauty adds to the charm and uniqueness of the location, making it a true gem on the island.

The best times to visit are early morning or sunset. In the morning, you can enjoy the soft golden light as it illuminates the island; however, the rising sun itself is not visible from this spot. If you come at sunset, you’ll witness the sun setting into the ocean, making this location perfect for a peaceful end to your day.

Miradouro das Flores is ideal for photography, quiet reflection, or simply taking in the untouched beauty of Porto Santo. Its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views make it a must-visit spot. Conveniently located near other attractions, it’s easy to include in your island itinerary for a memorable experience.

7

Besichtigung

Miradouro do Furado Norte

Scenic viewpoint with stunning views

Miradouro do Furado Norte on Porto Santo is a secluded and unique viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the island’s northern coast. The name, which translates to “Viewpoint of the Northern Opening,” likely refers to the area’s distinctive geological formations shaped by wind and erosion.

From this spot, you can admire the dramatic cliffs meeting the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy the untouched beauty of Porto Santo’s wild landscapes. It’s a quiet, peaceful place, away from tourist crowds, making it ideal for reflection, relaxation, and connecting with nature.

The best time to visit is during sunset when the soft light highlights the cliffs and ocean, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Clear days are perfect for capturing the full beauty of the panorama, including nearby islets.

Miradouro do Furado Norte is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility, inspiration, or stunning photo opportunities. Its remote charm makes it a true hidden gem on the island.