Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, located on the eastern coast of Madeira, is a bustling municipality known for its convenient location (housing Madeira’s airport), relaxed coastal vibe, and a blend of traditional charm with modern amenities. It’s often the first glimpse visitors get of the island’s beauty.

Historical Roots and Naming

Santa Cruz’s history dates back to the 15th century, shortly after Madeira’s discovery. The name “Santa Cruz” (Holy Cross) comes from the discoverer João Gonçalves Zarco, who found old cedars in the area and commissioned a cross to be made from them, christening the site. The parish was elevated to a town in 1515 and later became a city in 1996.

Gateway to Madeira

The most prominent feature of Santa Cruz is the Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (Madeira Airport), which lies within its municipal boundaries. This makes Santa Cruz the primary entry and exit point for visitors to the island, offering stunning views of the ocean and mountains upon arrival.

Beaches and Aquatic Fun

While Madeira is generally known for its rocky shores, Santa Cruz offers options for enjoying the sea:

• Praia das Palmeiras (Palmeiras Beach): Located in Santa Cruz city, this pebble beach features two saltwater pools (for adults and children) and is a popular spot for families, often awarded the Blue Flag for its water quality.
• Aquaparque Madeira: This water park, unique on the island, is a fantastic spot for family fun, especially during the warmer months. It boasts a variety of slides, fast lanes, a black hole, a lazy river, and multiple pools.
• Beaches in Caniço (part of Santa Cruz municipality): Further south in the municipality, areas like Caniço offer additional bathing complexes and pebble beaches such as Reis Magos Beach and Garajau Beach, the latter being part of a marine reserve and popular for diving due to its clear waters and rich marine life.

Attractions and Activities

Beyond the beaches, Santa Cruz and its surrounding parishes offer a diverse range of attractions:

• Garajau Partial Nature Reserve: A protected marine area famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine biodiversity, making it a prime spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. The iconic Cristo Rei (Christ the King) statue also stands here, offering panoramic views.
• Santo da Serra: Located on a high plateau within the municipality, Santo da Serra is known for its lush, green landscapes, particularly the Santo da Serra Golf Club, a renowned course offering stunning views. It also features beautiful gardens and a charming Sunday market.
• Camacha: A picturesque village famous for its unique cultural heritage, particularly its traditional wickerwork handicrafts and lively folklore, including the internationally known “Bailinho da Madeira.”
• São Salvador Church: Also known as the Santa Cruz Parish Church, this beautiful religious space is one of the most significant churches on the island.
• Municipal Market: A typical Madeiran market where you can find regional agricultural products and traditional items.

General Atmosphere

Santa Cruz offers a relaxed pace of life, often chosen by those who prefer to be close to the airport and have easy access to Funchal while enjoying a more local and laid-back atmosphere. It blends traditional Madeiran daily life with facilities geared towards visitors.