A practical guide for first-time visitors to Seixal Beach in Madeira, Portugal, covering how to get there, parking, facilities, the best times to visit, and nearby attractions you can easily combine into the same day.
A patch of jet black sand, steep green mountain slopes and the Atlantic’s steady rhythm make Seixal Beach a memorable first stop on Madeira’s north coast. Known locally as Praia do Porto do Seixal, the beach sits beside the village harbour and feels refreshingly low-key. Mornings are often quiet, with only gulls overhead and the smell of salt in the air.
The black sand comes from ancient volcanic activity, gradually shaped by centuries of waves. For generations, locals used this stretch of coast for fishing and swimming long before visitors began arriving. Even now, despite better facilities and growing popularity, it still feels more like a local beach than a resort attraction.
How to get to Seixal Beach
The easiest way to reach Seixal Beach Madeira is by car. From Funchal, the drive takes around 45 minutes via ER101 and ER104, climbing into the hills before dropping down to the north coast.
Public buses run between Funchal and Seixal, but services are infrequent and do not stop directly at the beach. Expect a downhill walk of about ten minutes from the main road. Taxis are possible, though harder to find for the return journey.
If you plan to visit several north coast spots in one day, having your own transport makes life much easier.
Alternatively, take a tour. Madeira jeep tours visit Seixal Beach, along with other top spots including Cabo Girao, the Fanal Forest, the Miradouro do Véu da Noiva and the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.
What to expect at Seixal Beach
Seixal Beach is open 24 hours, as it is a public beach, and there is no entrance fee. You simply arrive and walk straight onto the sand.
Parking is free, with a small car park close to the beach. Spaces fill quickly in summer, especially late morning onwards, and you may need to park slightly uphill and walk down.
Facilities include toilets, outdoor showers, and a small beach bar where you can buy drinks and light snacks. Many visitors bring their own food and picnic on the sand.
The sand is soft but dark and warm underfoot. The sea can be rougher here than on Madeira’s south coast, so check conditions before swimming.
🌟 Why book the Northern Wonders Jeep Tour?
- ✓ Off-Road Adventure: Get off the beaten track in a 4×4 Jeep to reach spots standard tour buses can’t access.
- ✓ Iconic Natural Pools: Includes a dedicated stop to swim in the famous Porto Moniz volcanic pools.
- ✓ The “Veu da Noiva” View: Witness the dramatic Bridal Veil waterfall dropping directly into the Atlantic.
- ✓ Ancient Fanal Forest: Walk through the mystical, fog-shrouded Laurel forest (UNESCO World Heritage).
Best time to visit Seixal Beach
For smaller crowds, aim for weekday mornings before 10am. Early light on the cliffs is particularly beautiful, and it is often calm enough for a quick dip.
Spring and early autumn offer pleasant temperatures without peak summer crowds. Weekends in July and August are busiest, especially from late morning through mid-afternoon.
Nearby attractions to combine in one day
After your beach visit, it is easy to continue exploring the north coast:
- Véu da Noiva waterfall viewpoint, a short drive east with dramatic coastal views.
- Seixal natural pools and Poças das Lesmas, volcanic rock pools just west of the beach.
- Porto Moniz natural swimming pools, about 15 minutes by car.
- Short walks into the Laurissilva Forest for a change of scenery.
I usually pair Seixal with Porto Moniz, stopping for coffee in between. It makes for a relaxed loop rather than rushing from place to place.
Practical questions about visiting Seixal Beach
Is Seixal Beach wheelchair-friendly?
Access near the beach is relatively flat, but some parking areas involve uneven surfaces and slopes. Accessibility is limited.
Can you bring your own food?
Yes. Picnics are common. Please take rubbish with you.
Are there places to eat nearby?
Yes. Small cafés and restaurants are within walking distance in Seixal village.
When is it quietest?
Weekday mornings before 10am are usually the calmest.
Is public transport practical?
Buses run, but schedules are limited. If you are short on time, driving is far more convenient.
Is it suitable for children?
Older children enjoy the beach, but currents vary, so close supervision is important.
Best time for photos?
Early morning light brings out the contrast between black sand, green hills and deep blue sea.
Seixal Beach rarely feels rushed or over-managed. It is the kind of place where you arrive for a quick look and end up staying longer than planned, listening to waves and watching clouds drift over the cliffs.
