Praia do Faial in Santana, Madeira, is a black volcanic beach with a natural swimming pool. We were struck by the stark contrast between the dark pebbles, the towering cliffs and the Atlantic waters.
In this article, you’ll find our photos and tips for making the most of your visit to Praia do Faial.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Is the Praia do Faial worth it?
Yes, this beach is well worth a visit. This bathing complex at the foot of spectacular cliffs offers a volcanic bathing experience. We particularly appreciated the authentic atmosphere of the place, as well as the beautiful views of the cliffs that frame the cove.
Praia do Faial is located in Santana, a village known for its typical triangular houses. It’s also the starting point for the famous Caldeirao Verde hike (PR9).
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Beach type: pebble, water access…
Sand or no sand?
The soil of Praia do Faial is made up of small and large black volcanic pebbles. You won’t find any fine sand. We recommend that you wear water shoes for comfortable movement on the pebbles and for entering the water. Alternatively, access to the water is via two ramps which, at high tide, descend directly into the sea. A ladder is also installed on the jetty. There’s also a small swimming pool on the solarium for those who don’t want to venture out onto the pebbles. For lounging, wooden pallets are placed on the beach, and a concrete platform surrounds the space: two options for settling in and soaking up the sun.
Swimming conditions and supervision
Access to the water is possible in several ways: directly from the pebble beach, via a ladder at the end of the jetty, or via two ramps with very small steps leading directly into the water. The water is slightly cloudy, typical of volcanic black pebble beaches. The natural swimming pool offers protected swimming conditions. Lifebuoys are available on site. The complex also has a first-aid station.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Installations
Praia do Faial features shared and adapted sanitary facilities, an on-site restaurant, a solarium area, as well as waste and recycling garbage cans. A dedicated parking lot completes the layout. We found that these facilities made the visit comfortable despite the site’s raw, natural character.
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- + 120 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 260 photos to help you choose
Access to Praia do Faial in Santana
Where to find Praia do Faial
- On the northern island of Madeira
- In the municipality of Santana
- Near Santana’s typical triangular houses and the start of the Caldeirao Verde hike (PR9)
Access by car and parking
The beach has a dedicated parking lot in the immediate vicinity, making it easy to get to by car. Car hire remains the most practical means of transport to reach Praia do Faial from the island’s other towns.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
Access from the parking lot
From the dedicated parking lot, access to the beach is just a few steps away. The bath complex is directly accessible from the parking area.
Useful information
Dog
We didn’t see any signs about dog access to the beach.
Reduced mobility access
The Praia do Faial has adapted sanitary facilities. Water access ramps with small steps may make it easier for some visitors to enter the natural pool, but the presence of small steps may limit access to the water for wheelchairs.
With children
The natural swimming pool offers a protected space for families. There’s also a small children’s pool on the concrete solarium. However, the beach’s large pebbles can make walking difficult for the little ones, so we recommend water shoes. We also recommend using the water access ramps rather than the pebble beach for safer entry into the water with children.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach.
Other restrictions: camping, fire
We couldn’t find any verified information about camping or fire restrictions on Praia do Faial.
Eating out
A restaurant is located directly on the site of the bath complex. So you can extend your day at the beach without having to go far. We found it convenient to be able to eat on site, facing the sea and the volcanic cliffs.
Things to do in the area
Praia do Faial is located in Santana, one of Madeira’s must-see villages. Just a few minutes away, you can discover the typical triangular houses for which the village is famous. Santana is also the starting point for the Caldeirao Verde hike (PR9), one of the island’s most beautiful levadas. If you’d like to discover it with a guide, a half-day guided tour is available. The beach is also one of the stops on tours exploring eastern Madeira.
Higher up, you can also admire the cove from the Miradouro do Guindaste.
Hotels
Funchal is the next largest city after Santana, andoffers a wide range ofhotels. You can also find our selection of the best hotels in Madeira here.
In particular, we recommend
- Hotel Quinta Jardins do Lago – See prices, photos and availability.
- Reid’s Palace Hotel – See prices, photos and availability.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
