If you’re looking for a Madeira spot that combines natural drama with easy access, Ponta da Oliveira deserves a place on your list. This headland on the island’s south coast offers striking sea views, rugged cliffs, and a sense of calm you won’t always find in busier areas. It’s not just about standing at the edge of the land and looking out, though. Ponta da Oliveira is a destination where you can swim, walk, and take in some of the island’s best scenery without having to trek for hours.
Where is Ponta da Oliveira?
Ponta da Oliveira is in Caniço, just east of Funchal. From the capital, it’s about a 15-minute drive along the VR1 motorway, and the airport is even closer (roughly ten minutes away). If you’re staying in Caniço or Caniço de Baixo, you can easily reach the headland on foot.
For those relying on public transport, buses run regularly between Funchal and Caniço with companies like SIGA. Routes 155 and 157 are the most useful if you want to get close to the viewpoint. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk downhill towards the coast. Driving is more straightforward if you prefer flexibility, but parking near the headland is limited, so go early or outside peak times.
What to see and do
The main draw here is the Ponta da Oliveira viewpoint. From the edge of the cliff, you get a panoramic sweep of the Atlantic and a clear look back towards Funchal’s coastline to the west. You’ll also notice the famous Cristo Rei statue and viewpoint about 2 km away in the same direction. It’s particularly good in the early morning for sunrise or late evening for sunset.
The area is also known for its volcanic rock formations and coastal paths. You can stroll along paved walkways around the hotels and gardens, or follow smaller trails leading to the shoreline. One spot worth seeking out is the Jardim dos Sentidos (Sensory Garden), a small but beautifully kept sensory garden just inland from the headland. It’s designed to engage all five senses, with fragrant plants, textured paths, and quiet corners for reflection. It’s free to enter and often overlooked, making it a peaceful counterpoint to the busy swimming areas.
Swimming, views and walking routes
If you’re planning a stop at Ponta da Oliveira, the good news is you can combine it with a dip in the Atlantic. The rocky platforms nearby have been adapted into access points for swimmers, and Reis Magos Beach is only a short stroll away with its mix of pebbles, clear waters, and handy facilities. It’s a safe and popular spot for snorkelling too, thanks to the calm conditions on the south coast. The surrounding hotels also offer access to their Lidos if you’d prefer a more relaxing swim and sunbathe. Entry costs, however, do apply.
The Ponta da Oliveira viewpoint itself is best known for its sweeping coastal views. On a clear day you can see along the cliffs in both directions, with the ocean stretching endlessly out in front of you. The sunsets here can be striking, so it’s worth timing your visit for late afternoon if you can.
Walking-wise, there’s the Promenade dos Reis Magos, a paved coastal path that links Reis Magos Beach with the lower part of Caniço de Baixo. It’s a pleasant, flat stroll with benches and landscaped stretches, perfect for an easy walk with constant sea views. If you’re after something longer, you can continue inland and connect with other local walking trails, but the promenade itself is more about relaxation than endurance. It’s popular with locals for morning jogs or evening walks before dinner, and it’s a great way to enjoy the coast without tackling anything too strenuous.
Tips for your visit
Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon if you want the headland to yourself. Midday can be busier with hotel guests heading to the water. Take water shoes if you plan on swimming, as the rocks can be slippery and sharp.
Bring a snorkel set if you have one. The waters around Ponta da Oliveira are surprisingly rich in fish due to the volcanic rock , and visibility is often excellent. If you’re walking the coastal paths, wear comfortable shoes. The promenades are easy going, but some of the side trails are uneven.
Finally, don’t just dash in and out. The cafés and small restaurants around Caniço and Caniço de Baixo are worth a stop, especially if you like fresh seafood. It turns a short sightseeing trip into a proper afternoon outing.
Where to stay nearby
Staying close to Ponta da Oliveira puts you in a convenient location for both the coast and Funchal. As mentioned, you’ll find plenty of large hotels in the immediate surrounds of Ponta da Oliveira, including Hotel Rocamar, Hotel Royal Orchid, Sentido Galosol, and Sentido Galomar.
However, if you’d prefer something more private, there’s also a mix of modern villas and sea-view apartments available through Atlantic Stay. Many of these properties have their own pools, hot tubs, and gardens with direct access to swimming spots or just a short walk from the promenade.
If you prefer a quieter base, Caniço de Baixo offers smaller-scale holiday rentals with terraces overlooking the ocean. For those who like to be in the middle of the action, Funchal is only a short drive away and has a wide selection of accommodation. Atlantic Stay lists central apartments that keep you close to the markets, gardens and restaurants, as well as larger homes for families and groups.
Why include it in your Madeira itinerary
Ponta da Oliveira combines everything that makes Madeira appealing: sea access, scenic views, rugged nature, and a touch of calm. So, whether you swim off the rocks, walk the coastal trails, or just sit at the Ponta da Oliveira viewpoint and watch the world go by, it’s the kind of place that balances activity with relaxation.
If you’re planning your trip, Atlantic Holiday Rentals has a wide range of options near the headland and across the island. From cliff-top villas with sweeping views to cosy apartments in the heart of Funchal, you can find something that suits your travel style. Book early to make sure you get the best base for exploring Madeira, and don’t forget to add Ponta da Oliveira to your itinerary while you’re at it.
