Madeira Archipelago (Funchal), Portugal • Atlantic Ocean

Praia Formosa (Madeira)

Madeira’s largest free public beach, stretching over 2 kilometers of volcanic black sand and pebbles beneath the towering 580-meter Cabo Girão sea cliff.

Praia Formosa (Madeira) in Madeira Archipelago (Funchal), Portugal

Photo: Dietmar Rabich (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikimedia Commons source

Local Notes & Setting

  • Look west to admire the colossal 580-meter vertical cliff face of Cabo Girão, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs
  • The seaside promenade connects Funchal's Lido area all the way to Câmara de Lobos fishing village
  • Subtropical Atlantic waters remain comfortably warm for swimming well into November

Water & Beach Specifications

Peak Summer Sea Temp 23.9°C (Peak Air: 26°C)
Monthly Sea Temps (May–Oct) May: 19.8°C · Jun: 21.4°C · Jul: 22.8°C · Aug: 23.9°C · Sep: 24.1°C · Oct: 23.2°C
Best Months May, June, July, August, September, October, November
Sand & Shoreline Volcanic Black Sand • Gradual Drop
Water Clarity Deep Azure (Clarity: 4.55/5 • Scenery: 3.65/5)
Daily Cost Guide €42/day (Sunbeds: €16)
Coordinates 32.6417°N, -16.9528°E

Explore complete 12-month NOAA climatology curves for this coastline in our Portugal Sea Temperature Guide →

Amenities

Watersports: Active
Naturist: Textile Only
Free Parking: Available
Bathrooms: Available
Showers: Available
Food / Tavernas: Available
Good for Kids: Safe Entry
Lifeguard: Seasonal Duty
Sunbed Rentals: Available
Natural Shade: Exposed
Wheelchair Accessible: Accessible

Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway

INTL · 40m drive

Convenient highway or local transit access across Madeira Archipelago (Funchal), Portugal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Praia Formosa (Madeira)

What is the water temperature at Praia Formosa (Madeira)?

The peak summer sea surface temperature at Praia Formosa (Madeira) averages 23.9°C (75°F), based on 30-year NOAA OISST satellite climatology.

What type of coast or sand is Praia Formosa (Madeira)?

Praia Formosa (Madeira) is classified as a volcanic black sand shoreline located in Madeira Archipelago (Funchal), Portugal.

Is Praia Formosa (Madeira) good for families with kids?

Yes, Praia Formosa (Madeira) is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.

Are there parking and facilities at Praia Formosa (Madeira)?

Free parking is available. Restroom facilities are present.

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