If you’re planning a road trip around Madeira, don’t miss the western side of the island – it’s wilder and sunnier than the eastern side, and full of hidden gems. Below you’ll find the best towns in West Madeira to explore.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger who’s mildly obsessed with islands, markets, and places that make your jaw drop. I’ve cruised around every corner of Madeira. West Madeira is where I fell hardest – for the scenery, the silence, and the poncha-fuelled sunsets.
Here are the top towns to visit on the western side of Madeira (and the best places to stay while you’re soaking it all in).
👉 Don’t miss my separate post on Best Towns in East Madeira for the full island lowdown.
1. Porto Moniz – Pools & Lava Love 🏊♀️
Perched on the northwestern tip of Madeira, Porto Moniz feels like the edge of the world – and it’s a seriously scenic one.
The star of the show is the natural volcanic pools, where you can swim in turquoise water while Atlantic waves crash into lava rocks beside you.
For something a bit different, pop into the tiny but surprisingly good aquarium, or lace up your boots for the Levada da Ribeira da Janela trail, which cuts through lush valleys and waterfalls.
👉 Check out my full guide to Things to do in Porto Moniz for more ideas.
Where to stay in Porto Moniz:
- Cliffside views at Aqua Natura Madeira Hotel.
- Cosy comfort at Hotel Salgueiro.
- 🏨 Browse Porto Moniz hotels.
2. Ponta do Sol – Golden Hours Only 🌅
With its colourful buildings, cliff-flanked beach, and bragging rights as the sunniest spot on the island, Ponta do Sol feels tailor-made for golden hour.
Grab a cocktail and head to the pier for a spectacular sunset, or take a leisurely stroll through the banana plantations just inland. If you’re in the mood for a walk, the Levada do Moinho offers dreamy valley views and just the right amount of effort.
Where to stay in Ponto do Sol:
- Oceanfront charm at Hotel Enotel Sunset Bay.
- Boutique feels at Estalagem da Ponta do Sol.
- 🏨 Check out Ponta do Sol stays.
3. Calheta – Beach Days & Art Stops 🏖️
One of the few places in Madeira with a sandy beach (thank you, imported Sahara sand), Calheta is a hit for swimming, sunbathing, and café hopping. and a pretty marina with cafes.
Art lovers can pop into the modern MUDAS Contemporary Art Museum, perched above the town, while ocean-lovers can hop on a dolphin-watching tour or catamaran cruise from the pretty marina.
Shout out to Calhau Beach Club – laid-back beats, beachy cocktails, and some of the best food in town.
👉 Check out my full guide to Things to do in Calheta for more inspiration.
Where to stay in Calheta:
- Modern luxury at Saccharum Resort & Spa.
- The Quinta Alegre hotel with an outdoor swimming pool.
- 🏨 Explore Calheta hotels here.
4. Ribeira Brava – Easygoing Explorer Base ☕
Ribeira Brava is low-key, central, and a smart base for exploring the island’s west and interior.
Start your day with a coffee and fruit from the local market, then visit the beautiful Igreja de São Bento, known for its blue-and-white tiles. The promenade is great for a breezy walk, and the road links from here make it easy to get just about anywhere on the island.
Where to stay in Ribeira Brava:
- Secluded retreats at Fajã dos Padres.
- Comfort with views at Do Campo Hotel.
- 🏨 See all Ribeira Brava options.
5. Paul do Mar – Surf, Seafood & Serenity 🏄♂️
Tucked between towering cliffs and the sea, Paul do Mar is a surf town with a sleepy soul. It’s quiet, peaceful, and a paradise for ocean lovers.
Watch surfers tackle the big waves, order grilled fish and limpets by the sea, and settle in for a sunset that’ll stop you in your tracks.
Where to stay in Paul do Mar:
- Chill retreat at Paul do Mar Sea View Hotel.
- 🏨 Browse Paul do Mar stays.
6. Jardim do Mar – Flower-Filled Peace 🌸
No cars. Just flowers, cobbled streets, and the sound of the ocean. Jardim do Mar is tiny and tranquil – a proper “get away from it all” village.
Spend the morning wandering the alleys, the afternoon watching surfers from the seafront, and the evening with a coffee, a view, and nowhere to be. It’s peaceful perfection.
Where to stay in Jardim do Mar:
- Cosy apartments at Casa do Mar.
- Rooftop pool bliss at Caso do Sol.
- 🏨 Check Jardim do Mar hotels.
7. São Vicente – Caves, Coast & Mountains ⛰️
Set in a dramatic valley on the north coast, São Vicente is all lush mountains, volcanic caves, and charming stone houses.
The São Vicente Caves offer a look into the island’s lava-filled past, while the Volcano Centre next door keeps things surprisingly interactive.
The road from here to Seixal might just be one of Madeira’s most scenic drives – coastal cliffs on one side, green cliffs on the other.
Where to stay in São Vicente:
- Rustic luxury at Solar da Bica.
- Central location at Estalagem do Vale.
- 🏨 Discover São Vicente stays.
Map of West Madeira Towns 🗺️
Use this map to get your bearings and plan out your west side adventure, from surf towns to sunset cliffs.
👉 Planning to see the whole island? Don’t miss my companion post: Best Towns in East Madeira – it’s packed with levadas, lush forests, colourful markets and more!
Madeira Road Trip Itineraries 🚗
Here’s how to turn these towns into unforgettable island road trips:
Spend a week exploring the island’s eastern side, with coastal hikes, traditional villages, and one or two levada walks.
🌅 7 Days West: Focus on the dramatic cliffs, natural pools, and relaxed fishing towns of the island’s western half.
🚗 12-Day Coastal Route: The full island loop – from Funchal to Seixal via hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, forest trails and sleepy fishing villages.
❓ FAQs About West Madeira Towns
Got questions before you road trip the west coast? Here’s what people usually ask me:
A: 100%. It’s less built-up, with dramatic cliffs, coastal trails, lush valleys and natural pools. Hiking boots highly recommended. You may also like my best places in Europe for nature post.
A: Generally sunnier than the north and east, especially around Ponta do Sol and Calheta. Bring sunscreen and layers.
A: Yes – Calheta and Paul do Mar are popular, though many beaches are rocky or pebbled. Porto Moniz’s lava pools are a must.
A: A hire car is your best friend. Buses run but are infrequent, especially in more remote towns like Paul do Mar or Jardim do Mar. I recommend Discover Cars for car rentals in Madeira.
A: Ponta do Sol is famous for them, but Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar are strong contenders.
A: Fresh seafood is a highlight. Try grilled limpets (lapas), octopus, and espetada – beef skewers cooked over open flames.
A: West Madeira is quieter than the east, especially the likes of Funchal. You’ll find fewer crowds, especially if you stay outside the beach hubs.
Enjoy your western wanderings!
Hazel ☀️
Related Reading 💡
Want to keep exploring Madeira? Here are a few more guides you might love:
🏖️ Best Towns in East Madeira: Traditions, Trails & Tropical Vibes.
🌋 15 Excellent Things to Do in Porto Moniz, Madeira.
🛣️ 12-Day Madeira Road Trip: Coastal Itinerary.
🌆15 Unmissable Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira.
🍷 Food in Madeira: What to Eat on Madeira Island.
🐬10 Great Things to Do in Calheta, Madeira Island.
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