Porto Santo is a small island in the Madeira archipelago, often called the Golden Island for its unique and spectacular 9 km long beach of light, therapeutic sand. It is the ideal destination for those seeking a luxury and wellness stay with a slow and relaxed pace of life. Famous for having hosted Christopher Columbus in the past, the island offers a mix of history, exceptional seaside resorts, and an arid but fascinating landscape. Our local experts recommend it for total relaxation, natural thalassotherapy, and diving.

What Our Travel Designers Recommend to See: Sea, History, and Wellness

• Porto Santo Beach (Praia de Porto Santo) – The 9 km of sand are the main attraction. We recommend long walks at sunset; the sand is renowned for its orthopedic and rheumatic properties (psammotherapy).
• Christopher Columbus House Museum (Casa Museu Cristóvão Colombo) – Although Columbus lived there for a short period, the house, now a museum, is a fundamental historic stop.
• Pico do Facho – The highest point of the island, offering a panoramic view of the entire golden beach and the ocean. Ideal for a morning hike.
• Beaches: Ponta da Calheta – The western tip of the island, offering a view of the nearby island of Cal (Ilhéu da Cal).

Gastronomy and What to Taste

• Bolo do Caco – Typical bread of Madeira and Porto Santo, baked on a basalt stone, often served warm with garlic butter. Not to be missed.
• Lapas Grelhadas – Grilled limpets, a flavorful and typical seafood appetizer.
• Vinho da Terra de Porto Santo – Wine produced on the island, often in small quantities, with a unique flavor due to the volcanic soil.

Activities and Experiences

• Thalassotherapy and Psammotherapy – Wellness treatments using the island's natural resources (sand and seawater).
• Diving and Snorkeling – The wreck of the Madeirense is one of the most famous diving spots in the Atlantic.
• Golf – The Porto Santo Golf, designed by Severiano Ballesteros, offers a spectacular course with ocean views.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Porto Santo
• Official Tourism Website of Madeira and Porto Santo

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations by Our Travel Designers

• Pestana Porto Santo All Inclusive & Spa Beach Resort – One of the most complete luxury options, directly on the beach.
• Vila Baleira Thalassa & Spa – Known for its thalassotherapy clinic that utilizes the properties of water and sand.
• Hotel Porto Santo & Spa – Comfortable structure with direct beach access.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Restaurante Panorama – Offers a splendid sea view and fresh fish dishes.
• Chico's (O Churrasco) – Known for grilled meat specialties.
• Restaurante Torres – Traditional Porto Santo cuisine with an emphasis on local catch.