Calheta is a popular destination on Madeira's sunny southwest coast. Known for having one of the island's few golden sand beaches (with sand imported from the Sahara), it's a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. Beyond the beach, Calheta offers a rich cultural experience with its modern art center and historic sugar cane factory.
How to Get to Calheta by Bus
Calheta is connected to Funchal by several Rodoeste bus routes. The journey takes approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on whether you take the express or the local scenic route along the coast.
What to See in Calheta
The golden sand beach (Praia da Calheta) is the biggest draw. Visit the "Centro das Artes Casa das Mudas," an award-winning modern art museum with spectacular architecture. Don't miss the "Engenho da Calheta" sugar cane factory, where you can see traditional rum and molasses production (especially active during the harvest in spring).
Best Time to Visit
Calheta is known for having the most hours of sunshine on the island. While it's a great beach destination year-round, the summer months (June-September) are best for swimming. Spring is ideal for visiting the sugar cane factory during harvest time.