About this place

The Beaches of Porto Santo

Porto Santo's main beach stands as one of Portugal's most remarkable coastal treasures. This uninterrupted 9-kilometer stretch of fine golden sand dominates the island's southern coast, creating a stunning contrast with the turquoise Atlantic waters. Unlike the volcanic black sand found on Madeira, Porto Santo's beach features soft, light-colored sand derived from crushed corals and shells accumulated over millennia.

The beach's distinctive therapeutic properties set it apart from others in the region. Its sands contain unusually high concentrations of calcium carbonate, magnesium, and iodine, elements believed to alleviate rheumatic pain, arthritis, and bone conditions. This has earned Porto Santo recognition as a natural spa destination, with some visitors specifically traveling for sand therapy treatments that involve sand baths and hot sand packs.

Water conditions along the beach vary subtly. The central section near Vila Baleira offers the calmest waters, protected by a natural bay formation, while eastern and western extremities experience slightly stronger currents. The beach's gentle slope creates a gradual entry into the sea, making it particularly suitable for families with children and less confident swimmers.

Beach infrastructure is well-developed yet unobtrusive. Access points with wooden walkways protect the dune system, while beach facilities include showers, changing areas, and lifeguard services during summer months. Several beach restaurants and bars are spaced along the shoreline, offering refreshments without overcrowding the natural setting.

Beyond the main beach, Porto Santo features several smaller coves and beaches accessible by foot or boat. Praia do Zimbralinho on the western coast offers a more secluded experience with dramatic cliff backdrops, while the northern coast features rocky formations with natural swimming pools filled during high tide.

The island's beaches maintain excellent water quality standards, consistently earning Blue Flag certification. The clear waters and protected marine area status make the offshore zones ideal for snorkeling and underwater exploration, with visibility often exceeding 20 meters.

Throughout the year, the beach experiences different moods—from bustling activity during summer months to peaceful solitude in winter when visitors can often walk for kilometers encountering few others, enjoying the therapeutic sound of Atlantic waves against the backdrop of Porto Santo's distinctive golden landscape.