Discover Ponta

Ponta offers several perspectives on the coast and its surroundings: the geography of Ponta da Calheta, the protected island of Ilhéu da Cal, traces of lime production, and a cycle path to Praia da Calheta. From Miradouro da Ponta da Calheta, the view extends as far as Madeira.

Geography, Nature and History

Ponta da Calheta forms the southern tip of the island of Porto Santo. A 400-metre-wide channel separates Ponta da Calheta from Ilhéu de Baixo, also known as Ilhéu da Cal. In the vicinity of Ponta, Ilhéu da Cal is part of the Natura 2000 network and the Porto Santo Marine Protected Areas network. The channel and protected-area status describe different aspects: the geographical separation between Ponta da Calheta and the island, and Ilhéu’s inclusion in these networks.

On Ilhéu da Cal, also known as Ilhéu de Baixo, there are galleries in limestone deposits that were used for lime production. Here, the geological character of the site meets its former industrial use. The lime galleries thus represent a distinct historical aspect of the area, alongside its coastal and natural features.

Beach and Practical Information

Praia da Calheta marks the end of Porto Santo’s nine-kilometre-long golden beach. It combines sand and rocks. Its sandy areas are described as therapeutic, and the bathing waters are warm. Both the beach’s composition and the properties of its water are among Praia da Calheta’s described features.

Praia da Calheta has parking, changing rooms and toilets. Facilities may change, so check before your visit. This lets you plan around the current situation on site, while the beach’s length and its combination of sand and rocks give you an idea of the coastal landscape.

Cycle Path and Viewpoint

A cycle path along Estrada Regional 111 runs from Ribeiro Cochino to Praia da Calheta, offering a route of nearly five kilometres. Check local path conditions before planning your ride. The named route and approximate length provide a specific outline of this cycling option.

Miradouro da Ponta da Calheta offers a different perspective: from there, you can see the rugged contours of the island of Madeira. The cycle path and viewpoint appeal to different interests—one focuses on a bike ride, the other on the view of Madeira. Considering both gives you two distinct sides of the landscape.

Restaurant and Hotel Choice

Restaurant Ponta da Calheta serves fish and seafood dishes and overlooks Calheta Beach on Porto Santo. The menu may change, so check it in advance if you plan to make your choices based on it.

Then compare the specific details of each hotel with your plans. This will help you base your choice on your travel interests and the services actually offered.

Discover more destinations: Campo De Baixo, Porto Santo, Dragoal.

Go to the main travel overview: Porto Santo.