Porto Santo Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
Laidback Porto Santo, a pleasantly low-key resort island renowned for a 9km (6-mile) stretch of fluffy golden sand that flanks the southern shore, has been attracting savvy holidaymakers for over 40 years. Part of the Madeira archipelago, this compact island, which encompasses just 42 sq km (16 square miles), boasts an appealing natural landscape, with barren hills in the north giving way to sandy beach in the south. Cast adrift in the Atlantic Ocean 40km (25 miles) northeast of its larger sibling Madeira and 100km (62 miles) from mainland Portugal, Porto Santo's relative isolation has prevented over-development. Folk traditions also thrive on this tranquil and unspoiled island. Porto Santo's serenity, good food, year-round sunshine, upmarket accommodation and a raft of outdoor activities that include almost every watersport imaginable make the island a winning destination.
Who goes there?
From spring to autumn the majority of visitors to Porto Santo are Northern and Western Europeans seeking a relaxing sand, sun and sea holiday. Upscale accommodation, good restaurants and a wealth of outdoor activities make the island especially appealing to families and empty nesters. In the mild winter months Porto Santo attracts older visitors escaping escape harsh winters further north.
Where in the world?
Porto Santo is located 1,000km (621 miles) southwest of mainland Portugal. Part of the Madeira archipelago, it is around 40km (25 miles) northeast of Madeira Island.
Porto Santo's resort hotels are located in the south of the island, overlooking 9km (6 miles) of sandy beach and the Atlantic Ocean. The island's main town, Vila Baleira, flanks one stretch of beach.
When to go?
Porto Santo experiences a mild climate year round. However, the best time to visit is between May and September when the rainfull is low and temperatures average 25°C (77°F).
Beach
The 9km (6 miles) of unspoiled golden sand that cling to Porto Santo's southern coast constitute the island's biggest attraction. Visitors gravitate here to plunge into the crystal-clear sea, or to try their hand at watersports that range from snorkelling to jet-skiing. Even in the height of summer, holidaymakers can always find room to unfurl their towels.
Beyond the beach
Island minibus tours that pick up from hotels allow you to appreciate Porto Santo beyond its golden sand and azure sea, with parched soil, craggy hills and the black volcanic cliffs on the interior and north coast rearing into view. Vila Baleira, Porto Santo's main town, rewards exploration with a warren of cobbled streets and white-washed buildings. Porto Santo also has a great golf course offering spectacular sea views, a riding centre and tennis courts.
Family fun
Family fun in Porto Santo is centred firmly on the beach, which is adjacent to the island's resort hotels. After tiring themselves out getting active in the sea, kids can refuel at child-friendly restaurants. Children will also enjoy the swimming pools and sports facilities at Porto Santo's hotels.
Retail therapy
One of Europe's least-developed island resorts offers equally low-key shopping options. Those hankering after a spot of retail therapy will be able to pick up souvenirs and other essential items in Vila Baleira. Fresh, affordable produce can be found at the town's small market. Vila Baleira also has a supermarket.
A night on the town
Like everything else on the island, nightlife in Porto Santo is relaxed. Numerous informal cafes and bars stay open beyond midnight, with those overlooking the beach especially popular. During the main summer season, seek out livelier nocturnal activities in Vila Baleira and the Penedo do Sono entertainment area, where pubs and bars buzz until the early hours of the morning. Open-air concerts are advertised locally.
Eating out
A surprisingly big choice of dining options belies Porto Santo's small size. Cuisine tends to be Portuguese or Madeiran with fresh and simply cooked seafood appearing alongside grilled meat. Hotel restaurants often offer a wider selection of international dishes. Opportunities for alfresco dining abound and some restaurants provide free transport. Feast on traditional Portuguese fare as the moonlight shimmers on the Atlantic at the beachfront Tia Maria (Praia - Ribeiro Salgado).
Getting around
Local buses run between Porto Santo's hotels and Vila Baleira, with some hotels, apartments and restaurants offering holidaymakers complimentary transport. Taxis also operate on Porto Santo and minibus tours are a good way to see the island. Those who want to get around independently can hire bicycles, scooters or cars.
Exploring further afield
Take the two-hour ferry ride between Porto Santo and Madeira Island. Porto Santo's larger sibling impresses visitors with the sights and shops of Funchal, the São Vicente Caves and the dramatic vistas from the pilgrimage church of Nossa Senhora de Monte, as well as the lofty heights of the Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo mountain peaks.
Splashing out
Banish the stresses and strains of everyday life at the Baleira Thalaso & Spa (Hotel Vila Baleira Thalassa, Sitio do Cabeco da Ponta). Put the fabled healing qualities of the island's salt water to the test in the spa's pools, tubs and showers, or let yourself be encased in therapeutic mud. Massage and other treatments are also available.
Flying in
Porto Santo Airport (PXO)
