Seixal — Madeira's Dramatic Black Sand Beach with Waterfall
Seixal is a small village on Madeira's north coast with one of the island's most dramatic beaches — black volcanic sand with a waterfall falling directly onto the shore, backed by towering cliffs. The village is surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery and is conveniently close to Fanal Forest (20 min inland) and Porto Moniz natural pools (25 min west).
Things to Do in Seixal
- Swim at Seixal beach — black volcanic sand and natural seawater pools carved from coastal rock
- Walk under the waterfall that falls directly onto the beach — one of Madeira's most unique experiences
- Use the natural seawater rock pools at Seixal for calmer, safer swimming conditions
- Hike the PR18.2 coastal levada walk from Seixal to São Vicente (8 km, 3 hours)
- Drive the dramatic north-coast road for views of volcanic sea stacks, arches and sheer cliffs
- Day trip combining Fanal Forest (20 min inland) and Porto Moniz pools (25 min west)
Where to Stay near Seixal
- Estalagem da Ponta do Sol — Clifftop boutique hotel on the south coast, 1 hour from Seixal
- Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa — Luxury spa resort in Calheta, 55 min from Seixal
- Quinta do Furão — North-coast vineyard estate in Santana, 30 min east of Seixal
- Pestana Quinta do Arco — Botanical garden resort in Arco de São Jorge, 20 min from Seixal
Practical Information
Seixal is 60 km from Funchal (about 1 hour 10 min by car via the north-coast road or the Encumeada pass). Bus 139 connects Funchal to Seixal but takes approximately 2 hours. The beach is free with a café and basic changing facilities. No lifeguard — swim with caution as the north coast can have strong swell.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Seixal beach safe to swim?
- Seixal beach is generally safe for swimming in calm weather, but the north coast can have significant swell, particularly in winter and early spring. Always check sea conditions before swimming. The natural rock pools adjacent to the beach offer calmer, safer water and are better for families with children.
- Is the waterfall at Seixal beach accessible?
- Yes. The waterfall flows directly onto the black sand beach and is freely accessible. You can walk right up to it and even stand underneath — a bracingly cold experience. The flow is strongest in winter and spring, lower in summer after a dry spell.