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Where to Watch the Sunset in Madeira: 9 of the Best Locations You Can’t Miss

Chris Knight

Madeira, known for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. Whether you're standing atop the island's highest peaks or by the serene coastline, Madeira’s sunsets promise an unforgettable experience.

In this guide, we'll explore seven of the best sunset locations across the island, each offering a unique vantage point to capture the beauty of the setting sun. The majority of them are very accessible and can be reached in under 5 minutes, meaning that you dont need wonder too far.

At a glance

  • Pico Ruivo

  • Pico do Arieiro 

  • Miradouro da Raposeira

  • Ponta do Pargo lighthouse

  • Calheta beach & harbour 

  • Paul do Mar - Fish factory 

  • Miradouro do Ponta da Ladeira

  • Cascata dos Anjos

  • Fly Lounge Bar - Saccharum Resort & Spa

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Pico do Arieiro

  • Location

  • Popularity: 4/5

  • Time needed to reach the viewpoint: 5-30 minutes

Pico do Arieiro is one of the highest peaks in Madeira, standing at 1,810 meters, although more commonly favoured for sunrise i’d argue its much better for sunset.

I did both sunrise and sunset on this peak and sunset was both more impressive and less busy. Firstly the sun sets behind PR1 trail which leads out towards Pic Ruivo. Not only will you have a backdrop of jagged peaks but you will have multiple vantage points to watch the sunset from. From the observatory you will have the famous sections of cabled and cobbled path which lead out the stairway to heaven, which you can use to create a more impressive foreground.

Other benefitss of heading up here at sunset over sunrise is youre more likely to secure parking spot near the summit of the mountain, you dont have to sacrifice your sleep to get up here early, and it will be much warmer than the morning. You can also check and monitor the webcams to see if conditions are favourable and if you will get a cloud inversion. In my experience youre just as likely to get a cloud inversion at sunset as you do at sunrise

Although winding and long, the drive up is relatively easy, making it accessible for all visitors. Rather than crowding around the Observatory next tot he car park, I would recommend walking 1km out towards the stairway to heaven to get the best vantage point. This should take 15-30 minutes depending on your fitness.

Pico Ruivo

  • Location

  • Parking

  • Crowds: 2/5

  • Duration to viewpoint: 45-90 minutes from Achada do Teixeira

Pico Ruivo is the highest peak in Madeira, towering at 1,862 meters. The view from its summit is unrivalled, offering a 360-degree panorama of the island. On clear days, you can see from one end of Madeira to the other, with rugged cliffs, valleys, and the ocean stretching out below. Although it is more difficult to reach than Pico do Arieiro, as you have to hike to its summit, it will be significantly quieter.

When I went here i had one of the most intense and impressive sunsets i have ever seen, and only shared it with around a dozen people. Howver because the summit has sevral vantage points it felt very quiet.

The shortest route to the summit its from Achada do Teixeira which is a 2.7km one way hike which involves 270m of elevation gain. The fitter individuals will be able to get up to the summit in under an hour, but its better to give yourself a bit of extra time so you dont rush.

Miradouro da Raposeira

This hidden gem on the western side of the island provides a tranquil spot to watch the sunset. Overlooking rolling hills and the vast Atlantic Ocean, Miradouro da Raposeira is s small man built platform which offers an impressive and secluded retreat from the more crowded viewpoints.

Parking here can be little bit of an issue, the viewpoint is located above a dead end road with space for a handful of cars. I’d arrive early to make sure you snag a sapce, if not you’ll have to park further up the road and make the short walk down.

Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse

Standing at the edge of the island’s westernmost point, the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the ocean and sky. The sunsets here are particularly special as the sun appears to sink directly into the ocean, creating a stunning horizon. The lighthouse, perched on dramatic cliffs, adds an extra layer of beauty to the scene. It also allows you to have amazing views both down the South an and west coast.

As you can park right next to the lighthouse, this location is very popular so don’t expect to have it to yourself. I’d also arrive early to not only get a parking space but to also secure a good spot.

Calheta Beach and Harbour

Calheta Beach and its harbour provide a laid-back spot for sunset lovers. As one of Madeira's few sandy beaches, it offers a different sunset experience compared to the island’s rugged cliffs and mountains. Relaxing by the water’s edge as the sun sets over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the boats in the harbor, is a tranquil way to end the day. This spot is perfect for families or anyone looking for a more relaxed sunset setting.

Theres plenty of free parking on the roadside above the marina and from there its a 5 minute walk to the beach

Paul do Mar - Sabor aMar

  • Location

  • Popularity: 1/5

  • Duration to viewpoint: 1 minute

Paul do Mar, a charming fishing village, offers one of the most off-the-beaten-path sunset experiences on the island. The rugged coastline, paired with the fishing village’s rustic charm, creates a peaceful and authentic experience. The village itself is a great place to explore before the sunset, offering a glimpse into Madeira's traditional fishing culture.

The Fish factory (Sabor aMar) is located on the promenade and serves as a quiet, atmospheric location to watch the sunset over the Atlantic. They have a balcony which you can watch the sun dip below the horizon whist dining some of the freshest and tastiest fish I have ever eaten. This is no exaggeration as the restaurant was so good we went there twice (and almost a third time)

Miradouro do Ponta da Ladeira

Located on Madiera’s western coastline, this hidden gem of viewpoint offers a fantastic panoramic view of the southwestern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. The sunsets here are stunning, with the sun slowly disappearing behind the cliffs and the ocean glowing in golden hues. It’s a quieter location, away from the more popular spots, offering a peaceful and undisturbed view of the sunset. Whats more the viewpoint is located right next to the small car park, meaning it takes very little effort to reach.

Photo by David Becker

Cascata dos Anjos

Cascata dos Anjos is a unique sunset location thanks to its cascading waterfall that flows directly onto the coastal road. The waterfall itself is mesmerizing, but the real magic happens during sunset. As the sun sets over the ocean, the sky reflects off the water, creating a glowing golden spectacle. Unfortunately this spot is incredibly popular due to social media. There will definitely beother people here and more likely you weill have a queue of people waiting for a photo.

Google maps says the road is closed to cars but you are able to still drive along it. Alongside being able to drive beneath a waterfall and get a free car wash, if you stay there long enough it will piss off all the people queueing for a photo, double the fun.

Whilst you are in the area, I would recommend eating at 90° Bar, Grill, and Restaurant, its located 5 minutes from the waterfall and also has a beautiful terrace where you can watch the sunset

90° Bar, Grill, and Restaurant

Fly Lounge Bar - Saccharum Resort

Located in the luxurious Saccharum Resort, the Fly Lounge Bar offers a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a sunset in style. Perched above the ocean, the bar provides stunning panoramic views of the horizon, making it one of the best places to watch the sun dip into the sea while sipping a cocktail. The modern design and chic ambiance, combined with the golden hues of sunset, create an unforgettable experience for those looking for a more upscale sunset spot.

Located next to the bar is the rooftop infinity pool which again creates a stunning foreground and reflections of the sunset. Myself and my partner stayed here for the duration of our honeymoon in Madeira and we wern’t disappointed, if you can afford it i would recommned staying here.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hiking up Madeira’s highest peaks, relaxing on its beaches, or standing at the edge of a dramatic cliff, the island offers some of the most spectacular sunset spots in the world. Each location on this list provides a unique experience, from high-altitude vistas to peaceful coastal views. So, the next time you visit Madeira, be sure to catch a sunset from one of these incredible locations for a moment of pure natural beauty.

I will also say that the islands unique location means that as long as you can find a good vantage point then the entire southern and western coastlines have an endless number of spots to watch the sunset.

If I was to pick a top three it would be Pico Ruivo for the views, Pico do Arieiro for ease of access, and then Miradouro da Raposeira as a coastal option.

What is the best way to get around Madeira? 

The most effective way to get around Madeira is by car as it allows you freedom to visit the locations you want, whenever you want, in the shortest time possible. Meaning you can take advantage of the many incredible locations on the island to watch the sunrise and sunset. 

If you do rent a car I would advise the following: 

  • I would avoid renting a big car as many of the mountain roads and residential streets in Madeira are very narrow. 

  • I would avoiding renting a car with a low powered engine, otherwise you will be spending most of your uphill journey changing between 1st and 2nd gear. 

  • If you struggle with clutch control then I would definitely opt for an automatic car as some of the junctions are savagely steep. 

I booked my car rental through discovercars.com, I have used them all over Europe and they search both international and local operators for the best deal. 

Let me know what you think about the article in the comments below, have I missed any locations out, and which is your favourite?

For more Madeira travel inspiration check out the following blog posts:  

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