Santa Cruz

#360 among destinations in Portugal

Locality

Gallery (2)

Map

Map

Gallery

Facts and practical information

Santa Cruz, located in the Madeira region of Portugal, is a picturesque coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Situated on the southern coast of Madeira, Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the main attractions in Santa Cruz is the Praia das Palmeiras, a beautiful beach with clear blue waters and golden sands. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a refreshing swim in the ocean, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline.

For those interested in history and architecture, Santa Cruz offers a number of fascinating landmarks to explore. The Igreja Matriz de Santa Cruz, a 16th-century church with a striking facade and ornate interior, is a must-see for visitors interested in religious art and history. The nearby Forte de São José, a historic fortress overlooking the sea, provides a glimpse into the town's military past and offers panoramic views of the coastline.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic charm, Santa Cruz is also known for its vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine. Visitors can wander through the town's charming streets, lined with colorful houses and quaint cafes, and sample traditional Madeiran dishes at the local restaurants. The town's lively markets, where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods, are also worth exploring for a taste of authentic Madeiran life.

Alternative names: Population: 6 thous. (2019)Area: 31.47 mi²Coordinates: 32°41'17"N, 16°48'1"W

Location

MadeiraPortugal

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Day trips

Santa Cruz – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Madeira Botanical Garden, Cristo Rei, Furnas do Cavalum, Jewish Cemetery of Funchal.

5.8 miW
Park, Garden, Botanical garden
Madeira Botanical Garden, Funchal
148 min walk • Nestled within the verdant slopes above the city of Funchal, the Madeira Botanical Garden is a verdant paradise that showcases the rich flora of Madeira, Portugal, alongside a diverse collection of plants from around the globe.
4.5 miSW
Sculpture, View point, Monuments and statues
Cristo Rei, Madeira Island
115 min walk • The Christ the King statue also known as the Sacred Heart statue, is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Garajau, Madeira.
3.2 miN
Cave
Furnas do Cavalum, Madeira Island
82 min walk • The Furnas do Cavalum are a group of four caves located in Machico, Madeira. Named after a local legend about a demon called Cavalum, who was imprisoned in the cave.
6.2 miSW
Cemetery
Jewish Cemetery of Funchal, Funchal
158 min walk • The Jewish Cemetery of Funchal is a Jewish cemetery located in Rua do Lazareto, Funchal, Madeira. Sephardi Jews as well as Ashkenazi Jews are buried here.
3.1 miNE
Beach, Outdoor activities
Praia de Machico, Machico
78 min walk • Praia de Machico is a beach located near the town Machico, on the island of Madeira, Portugal. It is one of the few sandy beaches of Madeira, with sand imported from North Africa.
4.4 miSW
32°39'35"N • 16°52'2"W
Palheiro Gardens - Madeira Island, Funchal
111 min walk • Park, Garden
2.8 miNE
32°43'7"N • 16°46'3"W
Núcleo Museológico do Solar do Ribeirinho, Machico
73 min walk • Museum
3.7 miW
Forts and castles
Fort of São Tiago, Madeira Island
95 min walk • The Fort of São Tiago is located in the historical centre of Funchal, Madeira.
5 miW
Football, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Estádio da Madeira, Funchal
128 min walk • Estádio da Madeira, formerly named Estadio Eng. Rui Alves and informally known as Estádio da Choupana is a football stadium in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. It is primarily used as the home stadium for C.D. Nacional.
4.8 miSW
National park
Garajau
124 min walk • The Garajau Partial Nature Reserve is a Portuguese marine reserve located on the Funchal Bay offshore Madeira Island. The protected area has existed since 1986. It is a location for snorkelling and scuba-diving. Dive centres exist in the Garajau Reserve.