Seixal Beach is a Hidden Beach Gem in Madeira

Along the rugged coastline of Madeira, you can find Seixal Beach, which became our favorite place in Madeira. The natural beauty you find here, the dramatic cliffs, are all in striking contrast to the black volcanic rock and turquoise waters. In this short blog post, we’ll bring you some fascinating facts surrounding Seixal Beach, along with practical information for your visit.

A little bit of history of Sexial Beach

The town of Seixal itself dates back to the early settlement of Madeira, with its roots intertwined with the island’s history. Over the centuries, it has evolved from a small fishing village to a tranquil seaside destination.

The beach owes its distinctive black sand to the island’s volcanic origins. Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions sculpted the rugged terrain that characterizes Madeira today. This geological legacy provides Seixal Beach with its unique charm and sets it apart from other beaches you can find here. 

How to get to Seixal Beach

Seixal Beach is on the northwest coast of Madeira. It’s quite an easy 42 km (26 miles) drive from the capital of Madeira, Funchal, to the city of Seixal, which takes about 45 minutes. Or if you are driving from Porto Moniz, it is only 15 minutes along the VE2.

Is Seixal Beach Free?

Seixal Beach is entirely free to visit. There are no entrance fees or charges for enjoying the natural beauty of this enchanting spot. Also, the parking lot is free of charge. A parking area is next to the beach and a bit uphill along the street. If it’s a busy day, you might park further up the hill or wait until a spot comes free. 

Waddling around Seixal Beach

The first thing that will strike you on Seixal Beach is the captivating juxtaposition of the deep black sand against the vibrant blue-green hues of the Atlantic Ocean. This scenery is framed by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. It indeed looks like one of the pictures from Hawaii, and we believe this is where another nickname comes for Madeira – the Hawaii of Europe. 

The beach’s pebble-strewn shores offer an opportunity for a tactile connection with the island’s volcanic history. It’s not uncommon to see visitors collecting small, smooth stones as souvenirs of their visit, but of course, we left one behind. 😉

Seixal Beach is not only a visual marvel but also a haven for marine life. As a snorkeler, you will be delighted to discover diverse fish species and other underwater inhabitants in the crystal-clear waters. The more adventurous can explore the deeper waters, where the currents occasionally reveal glimpses of larger sea creatures. 

For those who prefer to stay ashore, a stroll along the beach reveals an abundance of unique flora and fauna. The surrounding cliffs are adorned with vibrant succulents and other resilient plants, offering a fascinating insight into the island’s ecosystem. And, of course, there is a waterfall because we are on Madeira. 

When we were about to leave, we also saw a class starting on surfing, which can also be a nice place to learn to surf.  

One of the most appealing aspects of Seixal Beach is its accessibility. Unlike some of the more commercialized beaches on Madeira, Seixal retains an unspoiled, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of bustling crowds and touristy amenities.

To make the most of your visit to Seixal Beach, consider packing essentials such as sunscreen, comfortable footwear for exploring the shoreline, and snorkeling gear if you want to explore the underwater world. Remember to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!

Beautiful places nearby

• • Véu da Noiva
  • Chão da Ribeira
  • Clube Naval Natural swimming pools
  • Natural swimming pools 
  • ”Poça das Lesmas” natural swimming pools

In case you get hungry, here’s where to eat

• • Lounge Bar Clube Naval do Seixal
  • Casa de Pasto Justiniano
  • Marisqueira Pedra do Mar

Seixal Beach is a testament to the raw, unbridled beauty of Madeira. Its history, striking visuals, and accessibility make it a must-see destination for any traveler seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience. So, pack your sense of wonder and embark on a journey to discover the magic of Seixal Beach. And remember, waddle on! 

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