Cais do Carvão
Restored ocean swimming platform on Funchal's west promenade, with direct ladder access to deep, clear water.
About Cais do Carvão
Cais do Carvão sits in the sunlit south coast around Funchal and is best known for flat basalt platforms and ladders into the sea rather than a traditional beach. Restored ocean swimming platform on Funchal's west promenade, with direct ladder access to deep, clear water.
The site is supervised in season, with a marked swimming area and clear flag signalling. On-site facilities include lifeguard and showers.
What to know before you go
- Madeira's water is cooler than the Canaries — sea-surface temperatures sit around 19–23 °C through the year.
- Bring water shoes; entry is not soft-sand friendly.
- Cash is rarely required — cafés and parking meters mostly take cards.
- Parking fills early on summer weekends; arrive before 10:00 or after 16:00 for the best chance of a spot.
Best time to visit
June to October is peak season for swimming, with the warmest water in September. The site stays open year-round but the Atlantic gets bigger and colder from November.
Location
Funchal, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.63470, -16.94860
Frequently asked
Is Cais do Carvão good for families?+
Yes — Cais do Carvão has a seasonal lifeguard and facilities such as lifeguard and showers, which makes it well suited to families.
What kind of beach is Cais do Carvão?+
Cais do Carvão is a rock site in Funchal. Most of Madeira's coastline is volcanic, so soft golden sand beaches are the exception rather than the rule.
Is there parking at Cais do Carvão?+
Most coastal sites on Madeira have nearby paid parking, but spots fill quickly in summer. Arrive early or use local taxis and buses when possible.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Cais do Carvão.