Explore the charming Jardim do Mar and the tranquillity surrounding this magical place, where houses blend with the lush landscape by the ocean.
For other attractions, check Things To Do In Madeira. Need a guide to Funchal? See Things To Do In Funchal.
- Coordinates: 32.735687, -17.209891
The initial personal impression is that it is a refuge from the world, where time has stopped and nature reigns.
The name given to the region, Jardim do Mar, alludes to the transition between the arid vertical slopes and the lush coastal landscape, once full of wildflowers. In the 18th century, this small fajã became independent of Prazeres or Paul do Mar.
Within its limits, we find the parish church dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, built in the 1970s. Everything is small, and in a flash, we reach the small promenade where the waves break and the breeze touches our faces.
Map
Jardim do Mar Beaches
However, don’t be fooled by the apparent tranquillity, as Jardim do Mar is a destination for adrenaline junkies and water sports enthusiasts.
The sea, merciless in the winter, displays its power in violent waves that challenge the village. But in the summer, it transforms into a sweet enchantment. Here, surfing is the star of the show.
The Madeiran surfer Orlando Pereira dropped an 11-meter wave in Jardim do Mar. He was one of the first surfers on Madeira island and was born in Jardim do Mar.
Consider contacting Orlando at +351 963 269 028 or via email at orlandomendespereira@gmail.com to schedule a surfing lesson and improve your skills in Jardim do Mar.
Moreover, Jardim do Mar is an excellent spot for diving. Madeira is renowned for its rich and colourful underwater world, teeming with diverse marine species such as barracudas, Indian mackerels, giant anemones, rays, seahorses, and octopuses.
Praia do Portinho
We were amazed by the natural beauty of the place. It’s an idyllic setting. We spent hours there, diving, reading a book and admiring the scenery.
Despite the lack of surveillance, it is popular among locals and tourists, with a parking lot and some amenities such as a bar and a restaurant nearby.
Enseada Beach
In Jardim do Mar, there are three pebble beaches, with this one being the most serene and isolated compared to Portinho beach, which is ideal for surfing.
There are no beach facilities, but the view of the ocean and mountains is splendid. The tranquillity is only interrupted by the gentle sound of the waves and the warmth of the golden sun that embraces us.
Ponta Jardim Beach
The most remote beach in Jardim do Mar is a hidden gem on the south coast.
With crystal-clear waters and an incredible natural setting, it is the least frequented by swimmers but a paradise for professional surfers.
The challenging waves offer an exciting challenge and attract international surf competitions.
The wild beauty of the coast is breathtaking as it descends into the sparkling ocean. Silence reigns, punctuated only by the sound of the waves – a place of reflection and introspection.
It is perfect for those seeking a bit of adrenaline.
Jardim do Mar has hosted international big wave surf championships, such as the famous Big Wave World Tour 2011, which brought together some of the world’s best big wave surfers.
Another recent event was the Free Surf at Jardim do Mar, which took place in December 2021.
Hiking in Jardim do Mar
Several hikes pass through Jardim do Mar. One is the Vereda do Jardim do Mar, a 1.9 km trail connecting Prazeres parish to Jardim do Mar. Along the way, we can enjoy the ocean views and the surrounding vegetation.
PR 20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar
This trail is recommended for intermediate-level hikers seeking a serene and enchanting experience. During our hike, we encountered a group of tourists struggling to find their way.
We offered to help them and ended up completing the trail together. It was an incredible opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and share the surrounding beauty.
PR19 Caminho Real do Paul do Mar
A 6.1 km trail with an estimated duration of 3h30 that connects the Lombo da Rocha Viewpoint, Paul do Mar, and Jardim do Mar.
The trail has an elevation gain of about 675 meters and passes through agricultural, forest, and coastal areas.
The trail difficulty is considered moderate. It is a challenging but rewarding hike that allows for the admiration of the rugged coastline and imposing cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Get from Funchal?
Head west on the Via Rápida (VR1) towards Ribeira Brava. Then take the Via Expresso (VE3) towards Calheta.
Finally, take the Caminho Lombo da Rocha until you reach Jardim do Mar. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, covering a distance of around 48 km.
When to visit Jardim do Mar?
The climate in Jardim do Mar is mild throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. The best time for surfing is between November and April, especially in December and January.
There are accommodation options available in the village, including vacation homes and hotels.
Where to stay?
If you are looking to stay in the charming Jardim do Mar, there are several options available:
The Hotel TarmarPlace (3 stars) is just a short distance from the beach, allowing you to enjoy the sun and sea breeze. The rooms are spacious and come with a balcony. This hotel offers good value for money.
The Recanto Jardim do Mar is a two-story house with an additional attic, in the second row from the sea, with a beautiful garden and free Wi-Fi. On the spacious veranda, we find two sun loungers and a large parasol.
The Hotel Jardim Atlântico (4 stars) is the most popular option. With a restaurant and bar, it also offers panoramic views of the ocean, a short distance from the beach. The room is large, bright and airy, with a kitchenette equipped for preparing homemade meals. It also has a balcony with a privileged view that will make you want to stay in the room.
Where to eat?
The Portinho Restaurant is one of the most popular in Jardim do Mar. It specializes in seafood and typical Madeiran food, such as grilled limpets. Located by the beach, the restaurant has a magnificent view of the sea and a cosy atmosphere. It is open every day from 10:00 to 00:00.
The Beach Bar Paul Do Mar: A bar and café is 2 km from Jardim do Mar. It has a sea view and serves burgers, salads and sandwiches. It has a beautiful view of the sea and a relaxing atmosphere. It is open from 12:00 to 21:00.
Chico Tradicional Restaurant: A restaurant located 1.6 km inland in Prazeres. It serves regional food, such as fresh fish, espetada, bolo do caco. It is open from Monday to Sunday, from 12:00 to 21:00.
Things to do nearby:
Calheta is a village located on the south coast of Madeira, renowned for its banana production. It is also a delightful place to further explore during your visit.
Take a trip to Calheta Beach, one of the few artificial beaches in Madeira. Here, you can swim, partake in water sports or relax in the sun.
Visit the marina, where you will find several restaurants, bars and shops. You can also embark on boat trips to observe dolphins and whales or go fishing.
Explore the Casa das Mudas Arts Centre, a museum of contemporary art housed in a modern building with stunning sea views. Here, you can admire works by local and international artists.
Visit the Engenho da Calheta sugar cane factory, where you can learn about the manufacturing process of this typical Madeiran product. You can also purchase sugar cane honey and other products made from sugar cane.
At the island western end, we find the Farol da Ponta do Pargo, the tallest lighthouse in Portugal. Here, we appreciate the sunset and observe seabirds.
