Calheta (Madeira): The Complete Guide

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Calheta is a charming village nestled in a steep valley just above Madeira’s coast. It is the principal town of the sun-drenched, fertile southwestern coast of the island. Constructed in a bay at the stream’s mouth, Calheta enjoys constant sunshine, and its modern artificial sand beach and marina have transformed it into a leisure destination.

As one of Madeira’s oldest parishes and a site of early exploration by the island’s first settlers, Calheta holds historical significance. Established on June 1, 1502, by a Royal Decree from Dom Manuel the Virtuous, its foundation day is celebrated on June 24th, aligning with the festive St. John’s Day. Annually, the village near the beach buzzes with music, food stalls, and lively parades.

It hosts the historic Engenho da Calheta, a sugar cane factory founded in 1901, still producing sugar cane honey and ‘aguardente’ or rum. The area is also renowned for its rich variety of fish in its coastal waters.

A highlight for visitors is the Mudas Contemporary Art Museum of Madeira, an architecturally ambitious project that blends seamlessly with its environment. Known for its quality exhibitions and cultural events, it offers an iconic view of the sandy beach, the Savoy Calheta Beach hotel, and the marina. Nearby, overlooking a small pebble beach, the Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa, a hotel harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape, is situated close to the marina.

Top Tip: One of the easiest ways to get to Calheta is by going on a Madeira South Coast Full-Day Tour, where you will alos visit a sugar cane factory and see the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse. Coming by cruise ship – no problem they even have a harbour pick up.

History of Calheta (Madeira)

The name “Calheta” has dual origins related to its toponymy; it means “small bay” in Portuguese and also relates to “cal” meaning lime, linking to limestone. Founded in 1430, Calheta is one of Madeira’s oldest parishes and among the first explored by early settlers. It was granted to João Gonçalves Zarco’s son and his wife as a land grant.

Calheta evolved from a village to a town in 1502, following a royal charter by King Manuel I. Initially settled by noblemen and knights, this influenced the naming of localities such as Lombo do Doutor and Lombo do Atouguia. Important early establishments included the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça, founded in 1502, and the Santa Casa da Misericórdia in 1535, serving healthcare needs.

Prazeres parish, initially part of Estreito da Calheta, became autonomous in 1733, with its church founded in 1751. The Liberal revolution in 1835 led to Calheta’s incorporation as a municipality. Ponta do Pargo, initially under Porto Moniz, was incorporated into Calheta, but later returned to Porto Moniz in 1855, and was reintegrated into Ponta do Pargo in 1871.

Tristão Vaz Teixeira Bettencourt da Câmara, titled Baron of Jardim do Mar, was a significant figure, owning properties and directing the Diário de Notícias in Funchal. King Carlos I and Queen Amélie of Portugal visited Calheta, marking one of the monarchy’s last events affecting the area. Notable developments include the 1922 inauguration of the Ponta da Vigia lighthouse and the 1944 establishment of the Bairro Piscatório do Paul do Mar for the fishing community.

Visiting Calheta (Madeira) for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Calheta (Madeira) on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Calheta (Madeira) not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Calheta (Madeira) and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Calheta Beach

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Petras Gagilas

Calheta Beach, located on Madeira Island, is renowned for its sandy shores. While it may not boast the same level of natural beauty as some of the more picturesque beaches on the island, it is a popular choice among vacationers, tourists, and local residents of the Calheta region due to its soft sand and easy accessibility. This beach offers a…

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Location: Av. D. Manuel I 8, 9370-133 Estreito da Calheta, Portugal | Distance: 0km

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Visiting Calheta Beach

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Espírito Santo Chapel, Calheta

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The Espírito Santo Chapel is a cherished historical monument in the Calheta parish, known for its priceless art collection, making it a highly regarded point of interest. Originally constructed in the late 15th century, the chapel underwent a complete reconstruction in 1639, resulting in a blend of both Manueline and Mannerist architectural styles, contributing to its exceptional architectural significance. However,…

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Location: Igreja Matriz do Espírito Santo Av. D. Manuel I 23 Calheta Portugal | Distance: 0.3km

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Visiting Espírito Santo Chapel, Calheta

Here are all your hotel options in Calheta (Madeira).

Casa Dos Mudas

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jane White

Casa das Mudas, situated on a hill overlooking the town of Calheta and just over 30 minutes from Funchal, is a museum devoted to contemporary art. This dynamic cultural venue, inaugurated in October 2004, boasts not only a rich collection of art but also serves as a hub for various cultural events. The museum's building, designed by architect Paulo David,…

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Location: Casa das Mudas, Estrada Simão Gonçalves Câmara, Calheta, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 09h30-13h00| 14h00-17h30 Closed: Mondays, Sundays and public holidays | Distance: 0.4km

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Visiting Casa Dos Mudas

Engenho da Calheta

© 2025 Noamds Travel Guide

Exploring the sugar-producing history of Madeira is akin to journeying through the cultural and historical tapestry of the archipelago. A vital part of this exploration is a visit to the Engenho da Calheta, a landmark emblematic of Madeira's sugarcane heritage. This visit is a must for anyone traveling along the island's west coast. The Sociedade dos Engenhos da Calheta emerged…

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Visiting Engenho da Calheta

A day trip from Calheta (Madeira) offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Calheta (Madeira) provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Cascata dos Anjos

Cascata dos Anjos, situated just outside Ponta do Sol on Madeira Island, Portugal, is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades over the old highway ER 101, creating a stunning natural spectacle. To reach Cascata dos Anjos, when traveling west from Ribeira Brava to Madalena do Mar on road VE3, take the exit at a roundabout leading to Ponta do Sol. Many…

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Visiting Cascata dos Anjos

Paul da Serra 

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Paúl da Serra, located in the central-western part of Madeira, is a magnificent plateau that stands as the highest and largest on the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views and remarkable natural features. Situated centrally in Madeira, Paúl da Serra boasts an average altitude of approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level, making it a prominent geographical landmark. Covering an…

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Location: Paúl da Serra ER209 Ribeira da Janela Portugal | Distance: 8.7km

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Visiting Paul da Serra 

Garganta Funda Waterfall 

© 2025 Noamds Travel Guide

Within the Madeira archipelago, numerous locations showcase Nature's remarkable exuberance, and the Garganta Funda Waterfall unquestionably stands among these exceptionally beautiful places that leave no one untouched. Nestled on the southwestern edge of the island, within the Calheta municipality, reaching this natural sanctuary involves heading towards the parish of Ponta do Pargo, notable for its slightly rugged terrain. Embarking on…

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Visiting Garganta Funda Waterfall 

Ribeira Brava (Madeira)

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This well-known tourist spot boasts a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, particularly close to the beach area. You can take in the scenic views from a terrace or stroll along the promenade. For those interested in learning about the archipelago, the Ethnographic Museum of Madeira is a must-visit, showcasing a collection of ethnographic artifacts that reflect the region's economic,…

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Visiting Ribeira Brava (Madeira)

Porto Moniz (Madeira)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bjørn Christian Tørrissen

A visit to Porto Moniz, located on the northwest tip of the Madeira archipelago, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and relaxing leisure activities, making it a standout destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Upon arriving in Porto Moniz, visitors are immediately struck by the dramatic landscape. The town is famed for its rugged coastlines and towering…

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Visiting Porto Moniz (Madeira)

Funchal (Madeira)

The Portuguese archipelago of Madeira, consisting of two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, along with the uninhabited islets of Desertas and Selvagens, has a rich history veiled in mystery. Unlike its more prominent counterpart, the Azores archipelago, Madeira is located just 500 miles off the African coast. Discovered by the Portuguese in 1420, these volcanic islands swiftly became crucial…

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Visiting Funchal (Madeira)

Monte (Madeira)

The picturesque parish of Monte, known for its lush greenery, is a top destination for tourists, boasting some of Madeira's most beautiful gardens. It has become a favorite among visitors and is renowned for its natural beauty. The cable car connecting Monte to the Zona Velha (Old Town) offers a breathtaking journey over the city of Funchal. This area is…

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Visiting Monte (Madeira)

Santana (Madeira)

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The seclusion of Santana has preserved its unique identity and authentic characteristics throughout much of its history. If you have an interest in learning about Madeira's traditions and enjoy hiking, this is an ideal destination for you. The municipality encompasses six parishes, each with its distinct character: Santana, São Jorge, Arco de São Jorge, Faial, Ilha, and São Roque do…

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Visiting Santana (Madeira)

Santa Cruz (Madiera)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Santa Cruz spans an area of 81.5 km² and is home to 43,005 residents, organized into five parishes. The village of Santa Cruz, one of the island's oldest settlements, dates back to the early fifteenth century. Established on June 26, 1515, the municipality attained city status on August 2, 1996. In terms of architectural heritage, notable structures include the Santa…

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Visiting Santa Cruz (Madiera)

Machico (Madeira)

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Madeira's second town, Machico, is conveniently located just a ten-minute drive east of the airport, nestled in a picturesque natural bay. The town is surrounded by steep, terraced slopes and boasts its own stony beach. Despite its relatively modest size, Machico offers a laid-back atmosphere, a variety of restaurants, and a modest nightlife scene. This makes it an excellent choice…

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Visiting Machico (Madeira)