Fun Things to Do in Porto Santo | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Porto Santo Travel Guide
Quick overview of Porto Santo with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Porto Santo Travel Videos
- Plan Porto Santo Trip
- Things To Do In Porto Santo
- Tours And Activities In Porto Santo
- Best Time To Visit Porto Santo
- Flight Calendar For Porto Santo
- Best Areas To Stay In Porto Santo
- Hotels Map Of Porto Santo
- Transportation To Porto Santo
- Nearby Destinantion From Porto Santo
Welcome to Porto Santo, a hidden gem in Portugal that is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Madeira. Located just 40 kilometers northeast of Madeira, this small island offers a tranquil and untouched paradise for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. With its stunning golden sandy beaches stretching for nine kilometers, Porto Santo is a haven for sun worshippers and beach lovers. But there is more to this island than just its beaches. Porto Santo is also known for its therapeutic properties, thanks to its natural hot springs and therapeutic sands, which are believed to have healing powers. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the island's natural beauty, or indulge in some wellness treatments, Porto Santo has something for everyone.
Porto Santo Travel Videos
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Plan Porto Santo Trip
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Things To Do In Porto Santo
Porto Santo offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main things to do in Porto Santo is to explore its stunning beaches. The island is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Another highlight of Porto Santo is its natural beauty. Visitors can hike or cycle along the island's scenic trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the landscape. The main attraction in this regard is Pico do Facho, a mountain that offers panoramic views of the island.
For those interested in history and culture, Porto Santo has several sights to explore. The main one is the Christopher Columbus House Museum, which is dedicated to the famous explorer who lived on the island for a period of time. The museum provides insight into Columbus' life and his connection to Porto Santo.
Additionally, visitors can visit the Porto Santo Golf Course, which is a main attraction for golf enthusiasts. The course offers stunning views of the ocean and provides a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.
Lastly, Porto Santo offers a variety of restaurants and bars where visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Trying traditional dishes such as espetada (skewered meat) or bolo do caco (a type of bread) is a must-do for food lovers.
In summary, Porto Santo offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From relaxing on the beautiful beaches to exploring the natural beauty of the island, there is something for everyone. History and culture enthusiasts can visit the Christopher Columbus House Museum, while golf lovers can enjoy a round of golf at the Porto Santo Golf Course.
Tours And Activities In Porto Santo
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Check out Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Madeira (State region of Porto Santo).
Best Time To Visit Porto Santo
The best time to visit Porto Santo is between May and October. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. The sea temperature is also pleasant, making it ideal for swimming and water activities. Additionally, rainfall is minimal during these months, ensuring clear skies and dry conditions for outdoor exploration. Tourist crowds are also less dense compared to the peak summer months of July and August, allowing visitors to enjoy the island's tranquility. However, it is important to note that July and August are still popular months to visit, especially for those seeking a livelier atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. Overall, anytime between May and October offers a great opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Porto Santo.
Flight Calendar For Porto Santo
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Porto Santo.
Best Areas To Stay In Porto Santo
Porto Santo offers a variety of great areas for accommodation. Here are a few of the best areas to consider:
1. Vila Baleira: This is the main town on the island and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Vila Baleira is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and proximity to the beach. Visitors staying here can enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions.
2. Campo de Baixo: Located on the southern coast of Porto Santo, Campo de Baixo is a peaceful area that offers a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere. It is home to several luxury resorts and villas, providing visitors with a luxurious and relaxing stay. The area is surrounded by beautiful nature, including stunning beaches and hiking trails.
3. Ponta da Calheta: Situated on the western coast of Porto Santo, Ponta da Calheta is a popular area for those seeking a beachfront accommodation. It offers a range of hotels and resorts with stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy direct access to the beach, as well as nearby restaurants and water sports activities.
4. Fonte da Areia: Located on the eastern coast of Porto Santo, Fonte da Areia is a great area for those looking for a quieter and more laid-back stay. It offers a mix of hotels and apartments, with easy access to the beach and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the coastline and take in the breathtaking views.
Overall, Porto Santo offers a range of fantastic areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer a bustling town atmosphere or a secluded beachfront retreat, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in Porto Santo.
Hotels Map Of Porto Santo
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Porto Santo.
Transportation To Porto Santo
There are several transportation options to get to Porto Santo:
1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach Porto Santo is by flying into Porto Santo Airport (PXO). There are regular flights from Lisbon and Funchal, Madeira. The flight duration from Lisbon is approximately 2 hours.
2. By Ferry: Another option is to take a ferry from Funchal, Madeira to Porto Santo. The ferry journey takes around 2 hours and offers a scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean.
3. By Cruise: Some cruise ships include Porto Santo as a port of call. If you are on a cruise, you can disembark at the Porto Santo port and explore the island.
4. By Private Yacht: If you have access to a private yacht, you can sail to Porto Santo and dock at the marina.
Once you arrive in Porto Santo, you can use taxis, rental cars, or public buses to get around the island.
Nearby Destination From Porto Santo
1. Funchal, Madeira - Capital city of Madeira known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
2. Machico, Madeira - Historic town with a charming waterfront and a beautiful sandy beach.
3. Santa Cruz, Madeira - Coastal town known for its picturesque promenade and vibrant local culture.
4. Santana, Madeira - Traditional village famous for its unique triangular-shaped houses and stunning mountain views.
5. Calheta, Madeira - Seaside town with a golden sandy beach and a marina, perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
6. Ponta do Sol, Madeira - Quaint village known for its sunny weather and breathtaking coastal cliffs.
7. Ribeira Brava, Madeira - Scenic town nestled between mountains and the sea, offering stunning natural landscapes.
8. Camara de Lobos, Madeira - Fishing village with colorful boats and a charming old town, popular among artists and photographers.
9. Canical, Madeira - Picturesque village famous for its natural pools and a starting point for hiking trails.
10. Porto Moniz, Madeira - Coastal town renowned for its natural volcanic pools and dramatic cliffs.