The Best Beach Hotels in Madeira, From Saltwater Sea Pools to Ocean-View Infinity Pools


Whilst golden sandy beaches are not Madeira’s strong point (its sister island Porto Santo is better for that) there are some wonderful hotels with direct access to the sea, across pebbles or just a lick of beach. The majority are on the sunny south coast which is better for a sun-seeking holiday than the north, which is cooler and wetter. For a base with ocean views, infinity pools, luxury services and spas, in locations including Funchal, Arco de Calheta, Porto Moniz and Ponta do Sol, here's our pick of the beach hotels in Madeira.

 

Belmond Reid's Palace

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Though Reid’s Palace lies in the heart of Funchal, it also enjoys a glamorous location on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. And the property makes the most of its setting: traditional interiors celebrate the hotel’s British heritage through period features and various artifacts, and look onto lush subtropical gardens, seawater and freshwater pools, and the sea beyond (which guests can access directly via stairs built into the rocks). Elsewhere, the hotel organises wine tastings for its guests, as well as dancing classes for everything from the tango to the waltz. Don’t miss afternoon Tea at Reid’s – long famed for its scones and finger sandwiches on the terrace. Read the full travel article here. 

Madeira