Things to do in Machico

Machico is where Portuguese sailors first landed on Madeira in 1419, and the small museum and church by the harbour still lean on that history. The town's main draw today is its beach: a curve of golden sand, imported in 2008 and topped up since, not a natural feature like Porto Santo's coastline 43 kilometres away.

Sunloungers and a shaded promenade make it the easiest swim stop on the east side, a 20-25 minute drive from Funchal along the VR1. The fish market opens most mornings, and the parish church, rebuilt after storm damage over the centuries, dates its origins to the 15th century.

From May to October the water sits around 20-22°C; outside that, the wind off the bay can make the beach feel exposed, so check forecasts before planning a whole afternoon there.