Facing the Atlantic, Paúl do Mar is a fishing village where life follows the rhythm of the sea. Along the sunny promenade, from swims at the pier to sunsets at Maktub, this is one of Madeira’s most authentic west coast experiences.

At first glance, Paúl do Mar captivates with its setting: a natural amphitheatre of whitewashed houses pressed against the cliffs, the seafront promenade stretching parallel to the Atlantic. This historic fishing village, now easily accessible, still lives by the sea’s rhythm, with fishing shaping both its identity and daily life. The seafront is the village’s social stage. Walking the promenade, breathing the salt air and watching the boats return from offshore are rituals that reveal the soul of the place. On warm days, the pier doubles as a springboard for refreshing dives, and the terraces invite lingering evenings accompanied by the sound of the waves. Among its most emblematic spots is the Maktub Bar, known for its laid-back atmosphere and unrivalled sunset views. It has become a gathering point for surfers, travellers and locals who raise a glass as the horizon turns golden. Maktub is also renowned for its relaxed dining, echoing the ocean that sets the tone for the experience. Paúl do Mar also attracts those with a taste for sport. The strong waves of Madeira’s west coast make it a favourite among surfers, who regard it as one of the island’s best spots. But hiking too has its place here: trails starting from the surrounding cliffs lead to panoramic viewpoints with sweeping ocean vistas. Everyday life in the village remains loyal to its roots: quiet lanes, old fishing warehouses and the warm simplicity of a community that welcomes without hurry. It is this balance between tradition and discovery, between authenticity and the sea’s ever-present force, that makes Paúl do Mar a must for anyone wishing to feel Madeira at its most genuine. 📍 Paúl do Mar, Calheta

Total area: 1.40 km²

Coordinates: 32° 45′ 15″ N, 17° 13′ 36″ O

Total population (2021): Calheta

População total (2021): 635 hab