Madeira Lighthouse Hike & Cais do Sardinha Swim from Machico

Summary

Peninsula Walk & Lighthouse Visit with Local Insights

Start your day hiking across Madeira’s wild peninsula with a local guide, spotting rare birds and learning stories behind the 150-year-old lighthouse. Pause for a swim at Cais do Sardinha’s crystal waters before heading back to Machico — an experience you’ll remember every time you smell salt on your skin.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the color — not green, like most of Madeira, but this dry gold and rust, almost Martian. We started out from Machico with our guide Rui, who grew up nearby and seemed to know every rock by name. He pointed out a kestrel circling overhead (I’d have missed it), and the wind carried this salty tang that stuck in my nose for ages. The path was rough in spots, but nothing too wild — just enough to feel like you’re somewhere different.

I didn’t expect the lighthouse to look so… solid? It’s 150 years old, oldest in the archipelago, standing there on the edge like it’s holding its breath. Rui told us stories about shipwrecks and how his grandfather used to fish off these cliffs before they made it a reserve. We could see Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro out in the haze, and I tried (badly) to pronounce it — got a laugh from Rui for that one. There were gulls everywhere, screaming over the wind, and tiny lizards darting between rocks if you looked close enough.

On the way back we stopped at Cais do Sardinha. The water was so clear I could see my toes even when I waded out past my knees — cold enough to make me gasp but worth it after the walk. Some folks just sat on the rocks eating sandwiches; I couldn’t blame them. There’s something about drying off in that sun with salt on your skin that makes you forget emails exist.

I still think about that view from the lighthouse — all those cliffs dropping into blue, nothing between you and Africa except sea and sky. If you want a day trip from Machico that feels honest and a little raw (in a good way), this lighthouse hike is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lighthouse and Coastal Exploration

• Visit 150-year-old Madeira lighthouse
• Stop at Cais do Sardinha for a swim
• Relax at Prainha black sand beach
• Explore São Lourenço volcanic peninsula and nature reserve

Top questions

How long does it take to hike to Madeira’s oldest lighthouse?

The walk typically takes several hours round-trip from Machico, including stops for views and swimming at Cais do Sardinha.

Is swimming at Cais do Sardinha included on this tour?

Yes, there’s time for a swim in the clear waters of Cais do Sardinha during the return leg of the hike.

Are there any unique animals or plants along this route?

You can spot endemic plants found only in Madeira, several bird species like kestrels and pipits, plus lots of lizards along the trail.

Do I need special hiking experience for this tour?

No special experience is needed; suitable for all fitness levels according to tour info.

Is there a guide during the hike?

Yes, a local guide leads the group and shares information about wildlife and history along the way.

Where does this day trip start?

The hike starts near Machico on Madeira island.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What makes this lighthouse special?

This is Madeira Archipelago’s oldest lighthouse at over 150 years old, located on a dramatic peninsula edge.

What’s included

Your day includes walking with a knowledgeable local guide through Madeira’s unique peninsula landscape, visits to historic sites like the 150-year-old lighthouse, time for birdwatching and plant spotting along volcanic trails, plus a refreshing swim stop at Cais do Sardinha before returning toward Machico.