Where to stay in Machico
A practical, likeable base by the airport end: golden town beach, real-town prices, and the east in your pocket, from Caniçal whale museum to the Ponta de São Lourenço trail.
Getting there and around
Ten minutes from the airport and 20 from Funchal. Buses serve it well, but the São Lourenço trailhead at Baía de Abra is far easier with a car or the popular early buses in season.
Common questions about Machico
Does Machico have a sandy beach?
Yes, a golden artificial beach in the town bay, sheltered and family-friendly, plus the natural dark-sand beach across the fort side. It makes Machico the east coast answer to Calheta.
Why is Machico historically important?
It is where Zarco and the Portuguese discoverers first landed in 1419; the island's first captaincy and chapel stood here before Funchal took over as capital.
Is the Ponta de São Lourenço walk hard?
It is 8 km return with constant up and down, no shade and real drops at the edges, but the path is clear and hugely popular. Start before nine for parking, carry water, skip it in high wind.