Santa Cruz Beach is the main beach area of Madeira’s second-largest municipality, and is comprised of the Ribeira da Boaventura bathing complex, a water park and the ocean beaches of Praia de Sao Fernando and Praia das Palmeiras. Relax on a scenic pebbly beach or explore the wild rides and swimming pools of the aquatic theme park. Stroll along the esplanade and watch planes flying in to land at the nearby Madeira International Airport.
Explore the scenic coastline of Santa Cruz with a leisurely walk along the beach’s esplanade. Stop by the bathing complex, which features sundecks, two seawater swimming pools and ocean access. Relax in the safe, clean waters or sunbathe on a deckchair. Walk down to the sheltered bay, Praia de Sao Fernando, located between the bathing complex and the marina area. Swim in the ocean waters or walk out along the beach’s scenic jetty. The pebbly beach also has a foreshore children’s play area and dining precinct.
Aquaparque offers safe pools and fun-filled water playgrounds for kids to discover. It is the only aquatic amusement park on the island and has two main swimming pools and a lazy river, as well as several waterslides. One of the pools has play equipment for younger children and the other provides a relaxing space for adults. Stop by the park’s restaurant for a meal or visit the bar to enjoy a drink with Santa Cruz coastal views.
To the east of the beach you’ll see a promontory surrounded by picturesque arcades. Watch airplanes coming in to land on the narrow strip above the beach. Rent a Jet Ski or boat and explore the pretty bay, taking in views of the Desertas Islands.
Santa Cruz Beach is located directly below the Madeira’s international airport. Restrooms and parking are available at the beach. The bathing complexes charge an admission fee but the beach is free to enter. Praia de Sao Fernando, Praia das Palmeiras, Ribeira da Boaventura and Aquaparque have lifeguards on patrol during summer. Several resorts and hotels are dotted around the rugged and beautiful coastline of southern Madeira.
