Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
mixed
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
mixed
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
mandatory
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
300 m
Frequently asked questions
Calheta Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +22.0°C, warms up to +24.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Calheta Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Calheta Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — mixed. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Calheta Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — mixed. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 300 metres.
Calheta Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Calheta Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Calheta Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sea urchins, mosquitoes, sandflies. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Calheta Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Calheta Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Calheta Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante da Calheta, Beach bar, Vila Baleira restaurants. Cuisines available: Portuguese, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Calheta Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Headwear, Cash (euros).
Calheta Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning before 11:00 the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening you can enjoy a picturesque sunset over Cal Islet.
Calheta Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is allowed only in the designated area between lifeguard flags. Exercise caution on slippery rocks. Take all litter with you.
Calheta Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Calheta Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to rock-protected pools and shallow water. Suitable for quiet nature holidays and sunset watching. Not suitable for those seeking a large sandy beach with developed infrastructure.
Calheta Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Calheta Beach marks the end of Porto Santo-s nine-kilometre sandy strip, where sand mixes with rock formations. The rocky pools that fill at high tide create natural children-s pools. The beach offers impressive views of Cal Islet and Madeira.
Calheta Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Scenic combination of rocky pools and sandy dunes, Crystal-clear water, Blue Flag — water quality and safety certification, Lifeguards, changing rooms, showers, parking, Restaurant service, Views of Cal Islet and Madeira, Safe place for children. Cons: Mixed sand and rocky shore, not everywhere comfortable for lying down, Western tip of the island, can be windy, Limited infrastructure compared to central beaches, Mosquitoes and sandflies in the evening, Can be crowded in high season.
Calheta Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Cal Islet, Vila Baleira, Pico do Castelo, Fontinha Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Calheta Beach: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Calheta Beach: how do I get to the city of Porto Santo?
The beach is located near the city of Porto Santo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Porto Santo.