Madeira Island is a beautiful destination that offers a wide range of activities for families with children. From swimming and snorkeling to hiking and exploring, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this blog, we will share some of the top things to do in Madeira with kids.
1. Swim And Snorkel At Madeira Beaches
Calheta Beach is a great spot for families with children. The beach is a mixture of golden sand and pebbles, and the sea is crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The water is also relatively calm, making it a safe spot for kids to swim. Plus, there are plenty of sun loungers and parasols available to rent, so you can relax and soak up the sun while the kids play in the water.
There are also other great beaches and swimming pools around the island:
- Praia Formosa (Funchal) – the largest beach around
- Prainha Beach (Caniçal) – a little smaller but equally charming
- Natural pools “Doca do Cavacas” in Funchal
- Seixal natural swimming pool
- Praia de Seixal – famous for its black sand
- Praia de Machico – golden sand
- Porto Moniz natural swimming pools – popular spot
2. Explore The Botanical Gardens In Funchal
The Madeira Botanical Garden is a must-see for families with children. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants, including exotic flowers, fruit trees, and succulents.
The gardens are also home to a playground, making it a great spot for kids to run around and explore.
You can take the cable car from the Madeira Botanical Gardens to Monte if you wish too.
Other beautiful gardens that you can visit in Madeira include:
- Monte Palace Tropical Gardens – beautiful Japanese-style gardens that offer lots of shade on a sunny day
- Quinta do Santo (Santo António da Serra) – FREE; a great place to cool off as you’ll be higher in the mountains. Tip: Bring some chopped carrots and apples to feed the horses, come on Sunday mornings and visit a local farmers market too (the normally sleepy time will be buzzing)
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Santa Catarina Park in Funchal – a lovely kids-friendly park near the marina. TIP: bring old bread to feed the ducks
3. Take A Cable Car Ride From Funchal To Monte
Taking a cable car ride from Funchal to Monte is a great way to see the capital city of Madeira from a different perspective.
The ride offers stunning views of the island and the sea.
Plus, there are plenty of activities at the top, including Monte Palace Tropical Gardens, a cafe/restaurant, local municipal gardens (also beautiful and free) and the famous 18th-century church. You can easily walk around and explore the nature around you.
When it’s time to go you can either take the cable car back to Funchal, or opt to ride the famous Madeira Toboggan Ride on traditional wicker basket sledges back to Funchal. Children under 5 go free but please do hold on to them!
4. Take A Tour Around The Island With Madeira Link
Going on a tour around the island is a great way to explore the island beyond what you can reach on foot around your hotel or accommodation.
Madeira island is very varied and you and your little explorers will be amazed to discover the spectacular beauty of the island, with its high peaks, deep valleys, greenest forests, banana plantations and more.
Check out our services page. All our tours are private and we can fit up to 8 people in one of our cars (buggies and any necessities like spare clothes or warmer clothes will travel in the boot of course). You can choose to explore the East or the West of the Island, or we’d be happy to plan your day with us for you.
Tours are a great way to get out and about in comfort and without the worry over having to drive on the often narrow and steep roads in Madeira.
5. Visit The Madeira Theme Park In Santana
The Madeira Theme Park is a great spot for families with children.
The park is dedicated to the history of Madeira, science and tradition, but it also offers a wide range of attractions for children.
Little explorers will love riding a train, going on a boat on the lake, playing in a huge sand pit or exploring indoor exhibits including a playground.
There is also a cafe and a restaurant on-site, making it a great spot for a full day of fun.
6. Go On A Boat Trip
Going on a boat or a catamaran trip is a great way to explore the island and see the sea life. There are plenty of boat trips available, including dolphin and whale watching trips. Plus, the boat trips are generally suitable for all ages, making them a great option for families with children.
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Madeira Island is a fantastic destination for families with children, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all ages.
From swimming and snorkelling to exploring the lush gardens and going on a tour and a boat trip, there is something for everyone to enjoy.