Calhau da Lapa is a rugged haven of tranquility. One of the hidden gems on Madeira Island, the untamed beach boasts crystal clear waters, and stunning vistas.
Tucked out of sight at the bottom of a steep slope, Calhau da Lapa beach overlooks the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by majestic cliffs.
If your idea of bliss is peace, quiet, and some of the clearest and warmest water in Madeira, this captivating haven is for you.
Here is our guide to charming Calhau da Lapa, for your own slice of paradise.
In a rush? Pin and read later!
PLANNING YOUR VISIT TO CALHAU DA LAPA
IS CALHAU DA LAPA WORTH VISITING?
With no lifeguard, sunbeds or facilities on offer, plus the steep path to get there, this beach is not visited by many tourists. Which makes it good news for those looking for a quieter, more unique place to explore.
If you decide to visit this off-the-beaten-track hidden beach, your adventure will reward you with:
- magnificent cliff and ocean views
- views of a hidden waterfall
- ancient caves
- a pebbled beach
- warm, crystalline waters ideal to swim, snorkel or bathe in
WHERE IS CALHAU DA LAPA?
The beach is located in the parish of Campanario, in the municipality of Ribeira Brava. Nestled on the south coast of Madeira, there is no direct road access.
- 20minute drive from Funchal
- 10 minute drive from Ribeira Brava
- 15minute drive from Ponta do Sol
CALHAU DA LAPA HISTORY
The town of Campanario with a strong agricultural history, owes its name to an islet situated along the coast. Goods were transported by sea before roads were built. Caves built into the cliffs safeguarded goods carried by ships, and were a refuge for workers and their tools.
Nestled at the foot of volcanic cliffs, Calhau da Lapa remains remote, and largely off the main tourist track.
HOW TO GET TO CALHAU DA LAPA
Renting a car and driving in Madeira is the best way to get around the island. Whether you take a cable car, visit towns, natural pools, or search for Madeira hidden gems, having your own set of wheels is best.
While many Madeira attractions are easy to reach by car, there is no direct road access to Calhau da Lapa. You can only reach the beach by boat or on foot.
Option 1: By Boat – During summer months (May to September), water taxis leave from Ribeira Brava with the journey time being about 10 minutes.
Option 2: On Foot – The most adventurous way to reach the beach is along the pedestrian route, via Vereda do Paco (PR12). This is the route we took, which I will describe below.
The Calhau da Lapa map below, shows the position of Campanario, and where to park.
With the school on your left hand side, walk along Estrada da Lapa and round the bend. A large sign marking the start of the trailhead, Vereda do Paco can be seen ahead of you.
Although there are a couple of spaces to park here, leave these for locals to use, and park by the school.
VEREDA DO PACO (PR12) TO THE BEACH
VEREDA DO PACO (PR12) STATS
- Length: 2.10km return (out and back)
- Difficulty: Medium
- Height Variation: 164m
- Time: Approx. 20minutes down & 25minutes up
Part of the Vereda do Paco is built on the Camino Real sidewalk, and the other on a rocky massif. Along the route, you can observe rock formations on the right side of the Lapa River. It is a route that essentially allows access to the sea.
The route connects Campanario by foot, to “Calhau da Lapa”, a place that is part of the Cabo Girao Site of Community Interest (Natura 2000 Network).
- The trail is well-maintained with handrails.
- With up to 700 steep steps, the walk may not be advisable if you have knee issues.
- Parts of the pathway can be slippery, and suitable footwear is necessary.
- Remember this is an out and back walk. You have to climb back up those steep steps.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and suntan lotion.
After some initial steps the first part of the relatively flat trail runs alongside a small gorge. You will be able to see the ocean very quickly.
From here, the trail descends in a series of steep stairs.
The vistas are stunning. Magnificent volcanic cliffs, dry arid landscape, and endless blue ocean.
This is where the real effort is required as you navigate the staircase as it descends the steep cliffs. The steps are uneven in height, and very steep, so take your time and take breaks to enjoy the views.
HIDDEN WATERFALL
On your way down you can see a waterfall over your shoulder to the right. Plummeting from a great height, along levadas, it will be most spectacular outside of the summer months.
The last section of the path is more uneven with steep slopes, and not paved, so be careful if it’s been raining. You will soon see the end of the pathway, and can start exploring this tranquil place with its unique landscape.
CALHAU DA LAPA ANCIENT CAVE HOUSES
There are about twenty caves or troglodyte houses which are encrusted into the cliff rock. Dating back about 300 years, they are a fragment of the areas history, when they served as a safe haven for fisherman and labourers during inclement weather.
Today, some have been transformed into accommodation, allowing an incredible stay with the sound of the rolling waves sending you to sleep. One of them appeared to be an Airbnb although the last reviews were in June 2022. Availability may just be during the height of the summer.
CALHAU DA LAPA BEACH AND PIER
The small pier provides access via steps to a small bathing area. The area is known for the excellent quality of water, which is ideal for a dip, swim, or to snorkel.
The pebbled beach is not ideal for sunbathing. Encircled by towering cliffs, and buffeted by waves, it is a serene place to enjoy nature.
Search the huge rocks and you will find scrambling black crabs. Discover sea urchins, starfish, and be lulled by gentle birdsong.
If you are lucky, you may be alone.
To the west, you can glimpse Campanario, together with a small rock formation. And to the east, you can see the cave houses scattered up the side of the cliff.
Sit and enjoy this unique and truly peaceful and beautiful environment, while you contemplate climbing those 700 steep steps!
Has this article inspired you to check out this secret beach Madeira has on it’s south coast? If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.
MORE POSTS ON MADEIRA
We have several interesting articles for you to read and help with your planning:
- Driving in Madeira – a guide for first timers
- Cable Cars in Madeira for a thrilling ride
- Visit Ponta do Garajau Madeira
- Renting a car in Madeira
- Best Towns in madeira
- Ponta Do Sol Madeira
- Madeira Hidden Gems
And click here to find guides to other destinations.
Found this guide useful? Don’t forget to bookmark it and share with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through this link. This income goes towards the sites running costs and enables us to provide our readers with free content. Read our Disclosure.