Machico, Portugal

Machico is the second largest town of Madeira Island in Portugal. It is the most ancient town in the island. Machico is a beach town located on the south-eastern coast of the island. The city of Machico is not only popular as an active fishing port but is also considered to be one of the major tourist destinations in the island.

Location of Machico

Machico is located at the further most south-eastern corner of the island. Funchal, the largest city in Madeira is located on the south-west side of the city.

History of Machico

The land was first explored in 1419 and is considered as the part of the Madeira Island where humans first set their foot. At the beginning Machico was the only safe harbor in the island where the navigators could dock their boats. The sea water of Machico since 1981 has been acknowledged as a marine mammal sanctuary.

Places to visit in Machico

• Machico is a beautiful city full of fascinating sandy beaches ideal location to spend a perfect beach holiday. Some of the most popular Machico beaches are:
  • Beach of Machico
  • Beach of Prainha
  • Beach of the Lagoon
• Museu da Baleia is a very famous whaling museum. The museum is located in Canical, a major fishing village.
• The Sao Roque Chapel is another popular tourist destination in the city. The chapel consists of some of the precious paintings from the 16th century.
• Machico is very famous for the golf course located at the range of Saint of the Mountain.

Machico is a very lively city with exciting activities. Surfing is a very popular activity done here. The sea has perfect conditions required for surfing.