Santa Cruz holidays

Every bar, restaurant and shop will contain a bottle of Poncha, you can’t miss this bright orange rum-based drink. It’s the island’s sugarcane and honey infused spirit, served directly over ice or as a cocktail for those who can’t quite handle its strength. Decio Lounge Bar pairs it with passion fruit for added zest. If you’re a lover of seafood you’re in luck! Madeira is renowned for its fish dishes, most commonly the black scabbard which is often fried and accompanied with vegetables. Taberna Do Petisco is famed for its garlic-bathed octopus and is among the best traditional restaurants in Santa Cruz. Tapas eateries are popular here, as are Mediterranean-style pubs such as Restaurante Lily’s and O Gala. And if you can’t escape the flavours of home, there are a wealth of kebab spots.

There’s only one rocky stretch in this resort, its dark sands reflect off the Madeira sun ensuring sunbathing is aplenty. Palmeiras Beach is lined with boutiques, intimate restaurants and cosy cocktail bars – covering all your essential amenities. And with changing rooms, showers, toilets and endless sunloungers, this beach is fully equipped. For golden grains head to Praia Machico, the only artificial beach on the island. With sands imported from Morocco, we’d recommend this stretch for families due to its toe-sinking texture and shallow ripples.

Although small in size, Santa Cruz is home to some of Madeira’s many highlights. It’s the starting point for Levada dos Tornos, an enchanting walking trail featuring waterfalls, natural pools and forest adventures. Not to mention the breathtaking Cristo Rei Garajau viewpoint, where panoramic scenery of Garajau Reserve, Canico de Baixo and the Atlantic Ocean await.

Santa Cruz Aqua Park: With Madeira’s only waterpark at your fingertips, holidaymakers can revel in its adrenaline-filled shoots. There are three family-friendly slides, a rapid river, wave pool and splash zone. Daredevils can plummet down the Black Hole, while thrill-seekers take on multi-racers. Holding 1,000 people, it’s safe to say this wet and wild spot caters for every generation. If you’re not taking on the many rides, relax by the lagoon-style pool with a cocktail in hand. The kids can spray water from cannons, play on mini slides and run through catapults of water.

Day trip to Porto Santo: Porto Santo is considered an extension of Madeira, it takes just over an hour by ferry to reach its sun-drenched shores. Waiting there you’ll find natural sandy beaches, the town of Vila Baleira and its historic whitewashed houses, as well as challenging hiking routes up Miradouro da Portela. It’s well worth the journey with attractions such as the house of Christopher Columbus storing ancient artifacts dating back to the 14th century. It’s also a prime golfing spot with an 18-hole course based in the heart of the island!