Madalena do Mar
Banana-growing village on the south-west coast — said to be where the exiled Polish king Władysław III lived in the 15th century.
About Madalena do Mar
Madalena do Mar is part of the municipality of Ponta do Sol, with a population of around 1,031. Banana-growing village on the south-west coast — said to be where the exiled Polish king Władysław III lived in the 15th century.
Like most settlements on Madeira, Madalena do Mar grew up between the steep mountain interior and the Atlantic, which shapes both its layout and its everyday rhythm — fishing, terraced agriculture, and increasingly tourism. Spending half a day here gives a much better feel for the island than only visiting Funchal.
What to know before you go
- Most cafés, bakeries and small restaurants take cards; tipping is appreciated but not expected.
- Buses connect the main towns but can be infrequent on weekends — renting a small car gives the most flexibility.
- Parking near old-town centres is limited; use the marked car parks on the outskirts and walk in.
Best time to visit
Madalena do Mar is comfortable year-round. April to October is warmer; winter still averages 17–20 °C on the coast.
Location
South-west, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.72220, -17.13110
Frequently asked
Is Madalena do Mar worth visiting?+
Yes. Madalena do Mar offers a quieter, more local side of Madeira than central Funchal, and is easy to combine with nearby trails, beaches or viewpoints.
How do I get to Madalena do Mar from Funchal?+
Madalena do Mar is reachable by rental car or local SAM/Rodoeste buses from Funchal. Driving is faster and gives the most freedom; expect 20–60 minutes depending on location.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Madalena do Mar.