Trails
Passeio Marítimo (Praia Formosa - Câmara de Lobos)
The seafront link from Praia Formosa to the bay at Câmara de Lobos
The place
This seafront link runs from Praia Formosa to the bay at Câmara de Lobos on Madeira's south coast. Praia Formosa is the island's largest public beach, made up of four beaches with dark sand and pebbles. Beyond the beach the path climbs and follows the cliffs before it reaches the bay, known for its distinctive xavelha fishing boats.
The walk is easy and runs one way, so plan your return. Works closed the seafront between Funchal and Câmara de Lobos in early 2024, and the section from Praia Formosa to Câmara de Lobos had reopened by May 2024, so check the route before you set out. A taxi or ride-hailing car back to Funchal cost about €10 in 2025.
Highlights
- Stop at Praia Formosa, the island's largest public beach.
- Follow the path that climbs along the cliffs beyond the beach.
- Look for the sections built on pillars, which reduce the impact on the cliffs.
- Finish at the bay in Câmara de Lobos, where the xavelha fishing boats are.
When to come
Start early or walk in the late afternoon, since shade is limited on the cliff path and the sun is strong through the middle of the day.
Getting there
Start at Praia Formosa, between Funchal and Câmara de Lobos, and walk west to the bay at Câmara de Lobos, where a car park sits near the bay end.
Worth knowing
- Ground and difficulty: the walk is easy, with a climb after Praia Formosa and sections along the cliff edges.
- Facilities: toilets at the far end of Praia Formosa, snack spots along the beach and a car park near the bay in Câmara de Lobos.
- Return: a taxi or ride-hailing car back to Funchal cost about €10 in 2025.
- Shade: limited along the route, so bring water and sun protection.
- Cliffs: the path runs along the cliffs, so keep to the path.
- Beach: the sand is dark, with pebbles, so wear shoes that grip.
- Sea: check the surf before you swim at Praia Formosa.