Praia Formosa - reviews,open hours,photo spots,things to do | WanderBoat AI Trip Planner

It took us a few trips to Praia Formosa before we realized that along the western end of the beach the voulcanic stones transform into stunning black sand. You get the impression that you're on an alien planet when you're surrounded by black sand. One of Funchal's largest and most picturesque beaches has a lovely promenade that runs along the end of it and leads directly to Câmara de Lobos. The beach is crowded on a sunny day with both locals and visitors, and because of the nice weather, we also had a dip in the Atlantic Ocean. There are a number of free amenities by the beach, including parking, restrooms, showers, and a few dining options.

Norbert KolozsvariNorbert Kolozsvari

60

Praia Formosa Beach, located on the stunning Madeira Island, is a true natural gem. This picturesque beach is known for its breathtaking scenery and unique blend of pebbles and black volcanic sand. Its name, which translates to "Beautiful Beach," is a testament to its captivating beauty. Nestled between the dramatic cliffs and the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Praia Formosa offers an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can unwind on the sunbeds, take leisurely strolls along the promenade, or simply bask in the sun while enjoying the sound of waves crashing against the shore.

Maria CármenMaria Cármen

30

They close the beach when the tide is in. This is some kind of misunderstanding. I understand that there are big tides, but all over the world a red flag is put up, not just closing the beach with access to the ocean in the west of Funchal. You cannot even enter the beach (everything is fenced with tapes). 2-3 booths. They also close the promenade to the west. The promenade to the east has no continuity and it is necessary to climb stairs about 100-150 metres to reach the nearest complex of pools in the sea (3 km, 100 metres up) plus free parking on one side of a beach, a nice view rock on which it is possible to climb when the beach is open.

RafałRafał

00

The beach is almost entirely very large rocks and pebbles, with some minor inlets of coarse black sand and pebbles into the ocean. The water wasn't really that clear either. However, given that there aren't many beaches in Funchal, this is an okay option. Definitely take something soft to sit/lie on and swimming shoes, otherwise you'll be hobbling in and out of the water. There were a couple of bars just above the beach pumping out decent dance music which looked great, and would provide amazing opportunities to have a drink which watching the sun set, but I didn't try them so can't comment.

Paul HPaul H

30

Дуже некомфортний для купання пляж. Так, чорний пісок виглядає захоплююче, гарний вид загалом, але вхід у воду надзвичайно дискомфортний, каміння велике і мале, гостре, а ще й хвилями у процесі заходу у воду піднімає каміння постійно і може добряче прикласти по нозі. Різкий спуск, в одному місці берег просто обривається. Я не знаю чи така ситуація упродовж усього берега, ви можете упізнати по фото саме ту частину пляжу, де були ми. Із-за каміння і чорного піску купатися трохи моторошно, бо не видно що відбувається під тобою, вода не прозора тому що хвилі каламутять дно. Принаймі це було того дня, коли ми відвідували цей пляж. Але якщо головною вашою метою є сонячні ванни і вас не бентежить перспектива лежати прямісенько на доволі великих каміннях - welcome. Я більше ніколи не відвідаю цей пляж задля купання. Значно більше задоволення принесло купання у природних бассейнах що знаходяться на протилежному боці цього пляжу, вхід до них зразу через скелю з пляжу - дуже близько. Там є можливість купатися і в самих басейнах і просто на відкритому просторі океана, що прилягає до цього ж пляжу але на глубині.

OlesiaOlesia

50

Quite nice beach, not a huge fan of sand beaches. Take care on the western part behind the big rock. There are much bigger waves and also it is much harder to get out from the water due to returning water stream & it might wash you endlessly out of reach of the beach. There is also Baywatch so they might be helpful in simillar situation.

Ivan PetráňIvan Petráň

00