Best Sunrise Spots in Madeira
We spent a week in Madeira, Portugal, and tried to find the best sunrise spots on the island. We got really lucky most mornings and were able to catch a beautiful sunrise almost every morning. We found some pretty epic spots, and we think you will agree.
Pico do Arierio
This is the most famous sunrise spot in Madeira, and for good reason. But because of this, it is extremely popular and busy in the morning. We had came here a couple of times previously for sunset and to hike, and were shocked by how many people there were when we arrived for sunrise. We ended up having to park much farther away (in an overflow lot), and take a path to get to the viewing area. This took us an additional 10 minutes, which we did not really account for. Once we arrived to the viewing area, the sun was just moments from poking up above the clouds. I highly recommend getting here early if you come here for sunrise.
2. Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
This lookout is located on the northeast part of the island, close to Verada da Ponta de São Lourenço (another famous hike on the island). There is a small parking lot and a place to watch the sunrise behind a railing. You will have amazing views of the peninsula from this viewpoint. Another option is to walk sunrise from this rocky outcropping (see below), but it is a bit sketchy to get down here in the dark, especially when it is super windy out.
3. Miradouro do Guindaste
Miradouro do Guindaste is very close to the town of Santana, so we paired it with our stay in the town. There is an observation deck here, where several photographers were already lined up when we arrived. You have amazing views of the coast and the beach below.
4. Seixal Beach
Seixal Beach is a must visit place in Madeira, even if you cannot make it for sunrise. Many of the beaches are really rocky with huge waves, and are not quite suitable for swimming, but Seixal has fine black sand and is a beautiful beach to sit and enjoy the warm weather. It is also perfect to come here for sunrise, as the beach is located on the north part of the island and you get a beautiful glow.
5. Riberia Da Janela
We came across the location below on accident, as we were driving down the coast to the beach. There is a place to stop with parking and a restroom, as well a swing set. We parked here and had amazing views of the coast, as well as the road below during sunrise. If you keep driving down this road, you will eventually land at a rocky beach.
