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Calheta Marina is a beautiful and modern harbor located in the town of Calheta, on the southwest coast of Madeira Island, Portugal. Nestled between green hills and the Atlantic Ocean, the marina is one of Madeira's top coastal attractions. It is not just a docking area for boats and yachts, but also a popular leisure zone for tourists and locals. Surrounded by restaurants, cafés, shops, and close to the famous Praia da Calheta, the marina is ideal for anyone seeking relaxation, sightseeing, or ocean adventures.
Its modern infrastructure, calm waters, and scenic views make Calheta Marina a peaceful place to walk, enjoy the ocean breeze, or start a sea excursion. Whether you want to take a sailing trip, go dolphin-watching, or simply relax by the waterfront, Calheta Marina offers something for everyone.
Calheta Marina is about 35 to 40 minutes from Funchal, Madeira’s capital, by car. It is easily accessible via the VE3 expressway, which is a scenic drive through the hills and tunnels of Madeira’s rugged landscape. Free and paid parking is available close to the marina for those arriving by car.
Public buses also connect Calheta to other parts of the island, although they run less frequently than in the city. The Rodoeste bus service provides routes from Funchal to Calheta. Taxis and organized tours are also available, making access convenient even without a personal vehicle.
The weather around Calheta Marina is warm and pleasant year-round, thanks to its location on the southwest coast of Madeira. Summers are sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging between 24°C and 28°C (75°F to 82°F). Winters are mild, averaging between 17°C and 20°C (63°F to 68°F).
The area enjoys more sunshine than other parts of the island, making it perfect for outdoor and water activities throughout the year. Light breezes from the ocean add to the refreshing atmosphere by the marina.
Calheta Marina is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. While boat services, shops, and restaurants have specific operating hours, the public areas such as the promenade and seating zones can be visited any time.
Restaurants and cafés usually open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and tour operators typically run boat trips between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. It’s best to check with individual vendors in advance if you plan specific activities.
Calheta Marina is famous for its calm waters, scenic ocean views, and excellent facilities for yachts and boats. It’s a central hub for marine tourism in Madeira, offering everything from sailing excursions and whale watching tours to diving and sport fishing.
Its location next to Praia da Calheta adds to its appeal, as visitors can enjoy both the beach and marina in one trip. The clean, modern design of the marina and its peaceful environment make it a favorite for leisure walks, waterfront dining, and watching the sunset.
There is no entry fee to visit Calheta Marina. The promenade is open to the public and suitable for all ages. Boat rentals, sailing tours, and other activities come with their own charges, which vary depending on the service provider and activity duration.
Amenities available at Calheta Marina include:
Calheta Marina is a relatively recent development, built to boost local tourism and provide better access to maritime activities. Designed with a modern aesthetic, the marina features clean lines, robust infrastructure, and functional elegance that blends well with the coastal scenery.
Its construction marked an important step in Calheta’s transformation into one of Madeira’s most tourist-friendly towns. Though it doesn’t have ancient history, the marina plays a key role in the cultural and economic growth of the area by supporting marine transport, tourism, and recreation.
Visitors to Calheta Marina can enjoy a variety of activities for all ages:
- Calheta Marina is one of only a few fully equipped marinas on Madeira Island.
- It offers over 300 mooring spots for boats and yachts of various sizes.
- The marina connects easily with Praia da Calheta, a man-made sandy beach.
- Many boat tours from the marina offer sightings of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
- The calm waters make it a preferred starting point for water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak tourist season (June to September).
- Try local Madeiran seafood dishes at marina restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Visit during the late afternoon or evening for a relaxing walk and beautiful sunset views.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket if visiting in the evening.
- Combine your marina visit with a trip to the nearby arts center or Praia da Calheta for a full-day outing.
