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Step onto Cais do Carvao, and you’re stepping into a living seascape—crimson-and-white lighthouse standing guard, sea breeze brushing your skin, the endless Atlantic stretching beyond. This isn’t just a dock; it’s the romantic heartbeat of Funchal. Morning light dances on the waves, evening fishing boats return in silence—every moment here is pure magic, begging to be captured in a single frame.
This hotel is a perfect getaway for families! With kids' pool and playroom, your little ones will never want to leave. Adults can unwind at the spa center with massages and sauna, or enjoy a drink by the pool—pure bliss! Rooms feature sea-view balconies offering breathtaking Atlantic sunsets. Conveniently located near the city center yet peaceful, the buffet breakfast is diverse, and they even serve special kids' meals. A stay here promises relaxation and fun for all!
Dreaming of a family getaway or business trip in Portugal? This hotel is perfect for you! Overlooking the stunning Formosa Beach, it features an outdoor pool, kids' pool, and playroom to keep children entertained. The executive floor and meeting rooms cater to business needs, while the GoldenSpa offers rejuvenating hot stone massages and a Turkish bath. Enjoy fresh ingredients from the hotel’s garden at Golden Flavours Restaurant, or sip cocktails at the seaside bar. Just 3.5 km from Funchal city center, take a stroll to admire the breathtaking views of Cabo Girão Cliff!
This hotel in Funchal is the perfect choice for family vacations! Packed with kid-friendly amenities like a children's pool, game room, and specially curated kids' menus, your little ones will have the time of their lives. Enjoy the private beach or unwind by one of the two outdoor pools, soaking up the sun and sea breeze. For adventure seekers, don’t miss diving and water sports for an unforgettable experience. Wind down at the poolside bar with a refreshing drink in the evening. Conveniently located near Funchal Farmers’ Market and shopping centers, you’ll never run out of things to explore.
Everything you need to know about Coal pier
Hotel Santa Clara is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Cais do Carvao, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic sea cliffs through floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel provides complimentary boat transfers to the dock, enhancing accessibility for visitors.
Another excellent option is Pousada da Madeira - Funchal, a historic 19th-century property with modern amenities. Some rooms offer sweeping vistas of Funchal Bay, and guests can easily access Cais do Carvao via a scenic footpath. The on-site restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and local Madeiran cuisine, allowing travelers to savor authentic flavors while enjoying cultural immersion and breathtaking coastal scenery.
Reaching Cais do Carvao from Funchal city center is highly convenient. You can walk in about 15 minutes along Avenida do Infante D. Henrique, enjoying scenic views of the city blending into the coastline. Alternatively, take the local bus (lines 20 or 21), which stops directly at "Cais do Carvao" in just 5 minutes, with frequent departures and affordable fares.
For a unique experience, book a private guided boat tour departing from the harbor, circling the rugged cliffs and sea caves surrounding the site—perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Local car rental services also provide accessible navigation, ideal for independent travelers seeking flexibility. With multiple options available, reaching this iconic landmark is effortless and well-connected.
The must-try experience near Cais do Carvao is a guided sea HopeGoo or boat tour through the dramatic cliffs and hidden sea caves, where natural formations reveal stunning geological history. Many tours offer bilingual commentary, highlighting local ecosystems, seabird habitats, and rare rock formations.
Don’t miss the daily morning seafood market beside the pier, where visitors can select freshly caught fish and shellfish, then have them cooked at nearby restaurants. Try the traditional Madeiran grilled fish (Peixe Assado na Brasa) served with local red wine for an authentic taste of the island.
As dusk approaches, relax on the waterfront terrace, watch the sun set over the Atlantic, and enjoy a glass of Madeira wine—a perfect way to embrace the island’s serene charm and rich cultural ambiance.
Yes, several family-friendly accommodations are available near Cais do Carvao. Hotel Santa Clara offers spacious family suites with dedicated children’s play areas, safety barriers, and a heated swimming pool with kid-friendly zones, ensuring fun and comfort for young travelers.
Another great option is Pousada da Madeira - Funchal, featuring large, airy rooms and garden-style layouts ideal for multi-generation stays. The hotel hosts regular family activities, including marine biology talks and hands-on craft workshops, turning leisure time into educational fun.
The area also features safe walking paths with shaded seating, perfect for parents to stroll with kids while enjoying ocean views. All properties provide baby cots, child-sized meals, and welcoming staff, making it easy for families to enjoy a relaxed, stress-free vacation.
The nighttime view at Cais do Carvao is truly magical, especially during summer months when the harbor lights reflect across the calm sea, creating a shimmering silver glow reminiscent of a dreamlike painting. As darkness falls, the lighthouse atop the cliff gradually illuminates, becoming a striking focal point that draws photographers and stargazers alike.
Outdoor cafés along the pier begin operating, serving aromatic Madeira coffee and handmade pastries. Guests can sit on seaside benches, listen to the rhythmic waves, and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Some venues feature live acoustic music, often played on traditional Portuguese guitar, adding cultural depth to the evening.
Cool sea breezes make nightfall ideal for escaping daytime heat. On moonlit nights, the ocean sparkles with radiant ripples, enhancing the poetic beauty of the scene. This spot isn’t just a sightseeing destination—it’s a sanctuary for tranquility and romantic moments.
Hotel Mira-Mar is a top choice located just a 3-minute walk from Cais do Carvao. This boutique hotel features modern Mediterranean-inspired rooms with sea-view terraces, offering stunning vistas of the Atlantic waves crashing against rocky cliffs. The property provides free parking and 24-hour concierge service, making it ideal for exploring nearby hiking trails like the Levada do Norte. Nearby, restaurants such as "O Forno" serve fresh seafood and traditional Madeiran dishes, allowing guests to savor authentic local flavors while enjoying the coastal ambiance.
The most convenient option is taking the local bus (routes 20 or 21) to the "Cais do Carvao" stop, which takes about 15 minutes with frequent departures and low fares. For more flexibility, taxis are readily available, costing around €10–15 from central Funchal and arriving in 8–10 minutes. Additionally, there’s a free bike rental station nearby, perfect for travelers who enjoy cycling along the scenic coastal path. All options provide easy access to this iconic spot, often referred to as the "Eye of Madeira."
Near Cais do Carvao, visitors can take a boat tour to explore cliff faces and sea caves, where sightings of wild dolphins are common. The open-air seaview café adjacent to the pier offers local Madeiran coffee and handmade pastries—perfect for photography and relaxation. Sunset here is especially breathtaking, with golden light reflecting on the Atlantic Ocean, creating a serene atmosphere. Nature lovers can also follow the coastal walking trail extending from the pier to hidden coves, ideal for discovering unique rock formations and marine life.
Cais do Carvao was originally a major coal import port in the late 19th century, serving as a vital hub when coal was the primary fuel source on Madeira. The name reflects its historical function. Though no longer in active use, the site retains its historic stone quay and breakwater, now preserved as a cultural heritage site. Today, it stands as a symbol of the island’s industrial past. During summer months, the area hosts small art exhibitions and community markets, blending history with contemporary culture and inviting visitors to experience the island’s evolution through its architecture and traditions.
Yes, staying near Cais do Carvao offers excellent accessibility for day trips. The area is close to multiple eco-trails leading to Punta de São Miguel and the mountainous interior, as well as short ferry rides to Pico Island, where volcanic landscapes and pristine forests await. Many hotels provide travel concierge services, including guided tours, car rentals, and dinner reservations at local seafood restaurants, ensuring seamless itinerary planning. Whether you're hiking through nature or exploring cultural sites, a full-day adventure can be effortlessly arranged within half a day, showcasing Madeira’s rich diversity.
Near Cais do Carvao, O Forno is renowned for its freshly baked Madeiran bread and seafood stew, made with locally caught fish and bold regional flavors. Another favorite is Café da Ponta, offering outdoor seating with ocean views, serving signature cocktails like the "Madeira Sour" alongside creative Mediterranean tapas. For a quieter, sustainable dining experience, try Terra & Mar Café, which emphasizes organic ingredients and seasonal menus updated daily. These spots not only deliver exceptional taste but also reflect the island’s deep-rooted culinary culture, allowing visitors to savor authentic Madeiran life.
See what other travelers say about Coal pier
Wow, we got upgraded to a better room upon check-in—what a pleasant surprise! The view from the hotel is absolutely stunning, with panoramic sea and mountain vistas. It’s super convenient too: just a short walk up a slight hill leads to restaurants and supermarkets, so you’ve got everything you need right nearby. The only downside? The city center is a bit of a distance away, but there’s a bus stop right outside the hotel, making transit easy. Breakfast was a bit underwhelming—mostly standard Western-style options with very few warm or hearty choices like soups or stews. That said, the bathroom amenities were decent, at least they came from a recognizable brand. Overall, this place offers great value, comfort, and a beautiful setting. Definitely worth staying again!
Staying at Golden Residence Hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive—always smiling, ready to help with anything, and genuinely made me feel welcome. The location is perfect: just a short walk or quick metro ride away from the heart of Funchal, putting all the local shops, restaurants, and attractions right at your doorstep. What truly stood out was the view from my room—wide-open windows framing breathtaking sea vistas, especially stunning during sunset. Waking up to that sight every morning felt like a little vacation in itself. The area is also full of charming boutiques and local stores, making it super easy to pick up souvenirs or gifts. Everything about this hotel—from the comfort to the service and scenery—was top-notch. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. I’d absolutely come back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Madeira.
Staying at Quinta Da Penha de Franca was an absolutely delightful experience. The rooms are simple but impeccably clean—nothing fancy, but very comfortable and well-maintained. The restaurant stood out with its standout dishes: the banana swordfish and pasta were both flavorful and fresh, definitely worth trying. What truly impressed me though was the level of service. Upon check-in, staff took time to walk me through the property in person, even showing the route to the beach pool via the garden—very thoughtful and helpful. On departure, I witnessed a real-life emergency when a guest suddenly choked in the lobby. Without hesitation, the front desk staff sprang into action, immediately performing the Heimlich maneuver and successfully saving the person’s life. That kind of quick thinking and compassion speaks volumes about the team’s professionalism and care. High room turnover rate? That makes perfect sense—this place clearly delivers exceptional value and hospitality. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Funchal.
We stayed at this apartment in summer 2019 and absolutely loved it—so much so that we rebooked the very next day for a two-week stay in 2020. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we couldn’t visit in 2020 or 2021, but we held a voucher valid for two years, which finally allowed us to return in 2022. The location is excellent—quiet, narrow street just a five-minute walk from La Vie Centre, Ritz, and the old town. We were in a two-bedroom duplex with a terrace and balcony. The unit had been fully modernized shortly before our first visit, offering generous space inside and out, a sleek kitchen with high-end appliances, and well-equipped bathrooms (two en suites and one half-bath downstairs). However, despite the great memories from 2019, our 2022 stay was far less enjoyable. The apartment desperately needs a deep clean. Furniture looked worn, dirty, and some were visibly damaged. There were scuff marks and what appeared to be wine or food stains on the walls. Both bedroom sash windows were broken—one side snapped completely, making it impossible to keep open without propping something underneath; the other had a cracked frame, so I felt unsafe reaching under to adjust the shutters (no one wants a broken arm!). As a result, neither room received natural daylight during our entire two-week stay. The French doors leading to the rear bedroom and living area wouldn’t open on one side due to swelling caused by humidity. Outdoor furniture was also in poor condition—the terrace sofa set was falling apart, with large holes in the arms and backrests, and the cushions needed either a thorough cleaning or replacement. The umbrella was broken and tied up so it couldn’t be lowered properly. On the upper balcony, one sunbed had ripped through on one side, making it unsafe to use. Despite having enjoyed our time here three years prior, we found ourselves wishing we were anywhere else during this trip. To make matters worse, despite multiple messages to the manager weeks before arrival, we were surprised to receive a last-minute message on check-in day—just an hour before heading to the airport—stating we’d need to pay 60 euros in cash upon arrival for a “cleaning fee.” We asked for clarification but had no time to investigate further. We paid the amount anyway. Once home, I checked the company’s website—there was no mention of any cleaning fee whatsoever. In fact, the site clearly states that cleaning and fresh linens are included, especially for stays over a week. Yet we only received towel and linen changes. This felt like a basic service shortchange. I followed up with the Madeira Tourist Board, who provided information to file a formal complaint with the Madeira Trade Board. So where did that 60-euro payment go? Honestly, no one knows.
The staff at Suite Hotel Jardins Da Ajuda went above and beyond when our booking issue arose—super friendly, quick to respond, and they resolved everything seamlessly. The building has some age to it, but the rooms are spacious and come with a small kitchenette, which is perfect for self-catering or longer stays. Both the indoor and outdoor pools are well-maintained and surprisingly quiet, even during peak dates—great for relaxing without crowds. Breakfast was solid: generous, varied, and satisfying, though not quite exceptional. Overall, this place offers fantastic value and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Funchal.
The check-in experience was exceptional, thanks to Vera, who greeted us with genuine warmth and provided excellent recommendations and helpful tips—truly five-star service. Special mention also goes to Eduardo at the ground-floor bar, who was incredibly friendly and offered outstanding hospitality throughout our stay. His welcoming attitude made a big difference. From the moment we arrived, the staff’s dedication to guest comfort was evident. The atmosphere is relaxing, the setting beautiful, and every detail reflects care and attention. This hotel truly stands out for its personal touch and high-quality service—definitely worth staying at again.
Staying at Hotel Madeira was a fantastic experience! The room was spacious and incredibly clean—every corner, from the bathroom to the carpet, felt fresh and well-maintained. I appreciated how tidy everything was, even the smallest details. The location is perfect for exploring Funchal; it’s just a short walk or quick metro ride to the city center. With such comfort, cleanliness, and convenience, this place offers amazing value. I’d definitely book again without hesitation.
Everything was perfect! From the moment I arrived, the entire experience exceeded my expectations. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by local cafes, shops, and restaurants. The studio apartment was spotless, well-equipped, and incredibly cozy. The bed was so comfortable I slept like a baby every night. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality—always ready to help, yet never intrusive. It felt more like staying in a home away from home than a hotel. The value for money is outstanding, and I’d absolutely book again. Highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Funchal looking for comfort, convenience, and authentic charm.
I absolutely loved my stay here and can't wait to come back. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and local charm nearby. The apartment was spotless, well-maintained, and fully equipped with everything we needed, including a small kitchen that made cooking easy and fun. Even during weekdays, it was quiet and peaceful, making for a restful night's sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering great tips on local transport and attractions. This place offers amazing value for money and truly delivers on every level. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Funchal!
My stay at Next - by Savoy Signature was truly enjoyable. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and attentive service. Located in a charming neighborhood with a local vibe, I had plenty of great dining and drinking options just steps away. Plus, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the city center—perfect for exploring on foot. The room was spacious, clean, and quiet, offering a peaceful retreat after a day out. The only minor issue was a slight AC hum when the terrace door was open, but it didn’t disrupt my rest. The bed was incredibly comfortable—I’m usually not a fan of hotel pillows, but these were surprisingly good. Breakfast was generous and varied, with something for everyone. Whether you like fresh pastries, eggs, or local treats, there’s a little bit of everything. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value and a memorable experience. I’d happily come back.
The Villa Oliveira by Sea and Sun 4 You is a fantastic choice for a stay in Funchal. The apartment is modern, well-equipped, and impeccably clean—every detail was thoughtfully considered. We felt completely at home, with no need for anything extra. Communication with the platform was prompt and genuinely friendly throughout our trip. It’s clear that attention to guest comfort is a top priority. I’d happily return without hesitation.
Staying at Alojamento Local Trigal in Funchal was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—ideal for walking around the city, but also super convenient if you're driving, as it's easy to reach by car. Jose, our host, went above and beyond: he helped with parking arrangements, introduced us to a fantastic car rental service, and even arranged airport transfers. It felt like having a personal concierge who made everything seamless. Right next door is a cozy little café called Da Familia, where we had breakfast every morning—great selection, friendly vibe, and always fresh. Just steps away, there’s a lively pedestrian street packed with restaurants, so dining out was never an issue. The beds and pillows were incredibly comfortable, making for restful nights. Best of all? The price was outstanding for such a well-located, thoughtfully managed stay. The only minor downside is that the building isn’t very soundproof—on a couple of occasions, we were woken up by the noise of keys turning in locks or doors slamming shut. But honestly, that didn’t detract much from the overall experience. If you want a hassle-free, authentic stay in Funchal with great hospitality and unbeatable convenience, this place is a top pick.
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