Things To Do
in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, on Madeira's southeastern coast, offers a relaxed coastal vibe with easy access to the island's natural beauty. Its palm-lined promenade, picturesque harbor, and compact streets give it a friendly, walkable feel. From here you can explore levadas, nature reserves, and the east coast's volcanic landscapes within short drives.
With fresh seafood, small cafés, and a welcoming Madeiran hospitality, Santa Cruz makes a great base for both relaxation and discovery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and strong Portuguese coffee. After that, take a guided walking tour through the historic center, marveling at the beautiful architecture and rich history of the town. Don't miss the chance to visit the Santa Cruz Church, where the intricate tile work tells stories of the past.
For lunch, enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal at a quaint restaurant, where you can try dishes like bacalhau à brás. Post-lunch, stroll through the charming streets, visiting local shops and boutiques that showcase handmade crafts and regional products. Take some time to relax at the Praça da República, soaking up the sun and the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a local wine bar for a tasting of some of the region's best wines paired with delicious tapas. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach promenade, where the sound of the waves creates a serene ambiance. Conclude your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Begin your day at Praia de Santa Cruz, known for its stunning cliffs and golden sands. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, and enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café, listening to the gentle sound of the waves. If you're feeling adventurous, join a surfing lesson to experience the thrill of riding the Atlantic waves.
After a morning of surf and sun, take a break for lunch at one of the beach shacks that offer fresh fish and grilled meats. Spend the afternoon participating in various water sports, such as paddleboarding or kayaking, to explore the coastline from a different perspective. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the breathtaking scenery around you.
As the day winds down, relax on the beach and watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues. Later, dine at a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy grilled sardines while listening to live Fado music. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the beach, taking in the tranquil atmosphere under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful year-round climate
- Relaxed, walkable towns
- Easy access to levadas and nature
- Fresh seafood and Madeiran wine
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can be pricey for island transport and some restaurants
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some walkers
- Weather can change quickly in the mountains
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Pode falar inglês?" - Can you speak English?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz
Visit one of these nice places.
Palm-lined waterfront with moored boats and dramatic Atlantic skies at sunrise or sunset.
Modern marina with reflective water, yachts, and moody coastal light.
Dramatic cliffside coastal views and clear blue water—great for wide-angle shots.
Colorful triangular limestone houses with reed thatch provide a charming island backdrop.
Food in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Skewered beef cooked over charcoal, typically served with milho frito and onions.
Must-Try!
Garlic buttered flatbread baked on a hot stone, perfect as a starter or snack.
Grilled limpets with garlic butter, a classic Madeiran seafood treat.
Freshly grilled fish, often sea-bass or swordfish, with citrus and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small market with daily catch, fruit, vegetables, and regional produce—great for tasting the island's flavors.
Popular street food stalls selling warm garlic bread paired with local cheeses or chouriço.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings like Bom dia/Boa tarde; greet shop staff on entering.
Be patient in queues; try to respect personal space; avoid loud conversations in churches.
Smart-casual attire for churches and religious sites; swimwear only on beaches.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; round up or leave 5-10% for good service; taxis often expect small tips.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days, highs around 25-30°C. Expect sunny days with breeze; perfect for beach and outdoor activities, but higher crowds.
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, occasional rain showers; sea remains warm.
Milder than continental Europe, daytime highs around 16-20°C; occasional heavy rain; great for levadas with fewer tourists.
Blooming flora, comfortable temperatures, best for hiking and nature walks.
Santa Cruz at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal walk at the eastern tip of Madeira with dramatic cliffs and ocean views.
Short, easy hike through laurel forests to a lookout over the valley.
Lush levada path with waterfalls and forest scenery.
High-level ridge hike offering dramatic mountain vistas (sturdy footwear required).
Iconic levada walk through lush gardens to cascades and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz by plane.
Main gateway to Madeira, located near Santa Cruz; about 20-25 minutes by car from the town center.
Porto Santo's island airport; a short flight from Madeira Island for a day trip or beach escape.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Madeirans with traditional family roots and strong ties to the sea and agriculture.
Seasonal visitors seeking nature, seafood, and island culture.
A growing number of residents from other parts of Europe choosing Madeira as a base.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The island has a strong football culture with local clubs and public pitches.
Madeira is famous for levadas, coastal trails, and mountainous treks.
Snorkeling, kayaking, and sea swimming are common in sheltered coves.
There are golf courses on the island, including Santo da Serra nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can accommodate; look for veggie stews, salads, and grilled vegetables; ask for caldo verde without meat.
Request plant-based dishes or seafood-free meals; many places can adapt salads and pasta dishes.
Many restaurants can offer gluten-free options or adapt dishes; inform staff of gluten intolerance.