What to See in East Madeira by Car: Machico, Caniçal and Ponta de São Lourenço
East Madeira is the most accessible area from the airport and packs in some of the island's most dramatic scenery. Ponta de São Lourenço — Madeira's easternmost volcanic tongue of land — is the east's must-do excursion. 30 minutes from the airport by car, the east combines the historic town of Machico, Caniçal's dark sand beaches and the peninsula's nature reserve. Ideal for your first or last day of the trip. Book your car at Discover Cars.
East Madeira road trip itinerary
Starting point: Funchal Airport or central Funchal
Stop 1 — Santa Cruz (10 min from the airport)
The town closest to the airport. Has a lovely square with a Gothic church and a small market. Good quick stop of 20-30 minutes.
Stop 2 — Machico (20 min from the airport)
Madeira's second most important town, with a sheltered bay and an imported sand beach. The triangular fort by the sea is the town's symbol. Recommended time: 1-1.5 hours.
Stop 3 — Caniçal (35 min from the airport)
The last village before the nature reserve. Has a small whale museum and a dark sand beach. Starting point for the Ponta de São Lourenço trail.
Stop 4 — Ponta de São Lourenço (45 min from the airport)
Madeira's easternmost point. The round-trip trail is 8 km with a 2-3 hour walk. Spectacular Atlantic views on both sides. Free parking at the trailhead.
Distances and times from Funchal
| Destination | Distance | Drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz | 15 km | 15 min |
| Machico | 25 km | 25 min |
| Caniçal | 35 km | 35 min |
| Ponta de São Lourenço (car park) | 45 km | 45 min |
Ponta de São Lourenço: what you need to know
The trail: 8 km round trip, medium level. Requires comfortable footwear. Little shade for most of the route. Bring water and sun protection.
Hours: the nature reserve is open all year, dawn to dusk. No entry fee.
Parking: free at the trailhead, but fills up in summer before 9am. Arrive early.
Best time: spring (March-May) when vegetation is green. In summer the landscape is more arid but skies are clearer.
Frequently asked questions about east Madeira
How much time do I need to see east Madeira?
A full day to do the itinerary at a relaxed pace. If you're only going to Ponta de São Lourenço, 4-5 hours (including the trail) is enough.
Is there a beach in east Madeira?
Yes. Machico has a golden sand beach (imported) protected by a breakwater. Caniçal has dark volcanic sand beaches. These are the island's most accessible beaches.
Can you visit Ponta de São Lourenço with children?
The start of the trail is accessible, but the final stretch has narrow sections and strong wind. With young children, the first 2-3 km already offer spectacular views without needing to reach the tip.
Are there restaurants in east Madeira?
Yes. Machico has several fresh fish restaurants along the seafront. Caniçal also has simple options near the beach.