Prainha Beach

Beach and Church in Machico (Madeira)

A few kilometres east of Caniçal, identifiable by a gathering of parked cars, a staircase descends the cliffs leading to Prainha beach. Uncommon for Madeira, this beach features remarkably soft, dark-grey sand, offering an inviting setting. The crystalline waters make for an excellent swimming experience. Prainha’s allure attracts day-trippers, particularly on summer weekends, resulting in limited space on the sands. However, the beachside café’s terrace (open during the summer, daily 10 am–8 pm, closed in inclement weather) provides a retreat where visitors can enjoy slightly upscale fish and seafood, snacks, and drinks. The café also rents out sunbeds and umbrellas.

Perched above the beach is the chapel of Nossa Senhora de Piedade, which comes alive on the third Sunday of September. During this time, a statue of Nossa Senhora de Piedade, often attributed to an unnamed sixteenth-century Flemish master, is transported from the chapel to Caniçal, accompanied by a procession of fishing boats. At other times, the chapel remains locked, adding a touch of local tradition and spirituality to the picturesque coastal landscape.

The Prainha Beach appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Machico (Madeira)!

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