As summer fades into golden evenings, Madeira keeps serving sunsets that leave you speechless. The best part? You don’t need summer at all to enjoy them. Thanks to the island’s unique geography and mild climate, you can experience the best of sunset spots on Madeira year-round.
Whether you’re standing above the clouds or sipping wine by the sea, here are my absolute favorite places to catch those unforgettable last rays of light.
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1. Pico do Arieiro – One of my favorite sunset spots on Madeira
Most people know Pico do Arieiro as the sunrise spot – and it’s true, those early mornings can be spectacular. But honestly? I’m team sunset all the way.
There’s something incredibly peaceful about being up there in the evening. The crowds are smaller, the air cooler, and the views just as dramatic. You drive straight up to 1818 meters, where jagged volcanic peaks ripple across the horizon like something from a fantasy movie. As the sun drops, the sky lights up in every shade of orange, pink, purple, and deep blue. It’s absolutely mesmerizing.
Tip: Get there about 45–60 minutes before sunset. That gives you time to find parking, explore different viewpoints, and breathe in that crisp mountain air. After sunset, stick around. The afterglow can be even more magical than the sun itself. Also: bring a warm jacket or hoodie. The wind up here does not care that you were sweating at sea level an hour earlier.
Wondering whether to go for sunrise or sunset? I’ve compared both in detail in this post: Sunrise vs. Sunset at Pico do Arieiro
2. Ponta do Sol – oceanfront sunset spots on Madeira
For a more laid-back sunset experience, you can’t go wrong with Ponta do Sol. This quaint little town on the south coast lives up to its name “Sun Point”, and watching the sun melt into the ocean here feels like a daily ritual.
My favorite place to take it all in? The restaurant Sol Poente. It’s perched right on the old pier, with panoramic sea views and a golden glow that turns dinner into an experience. Order a glass of vinho verde, some fresh lapas or grilled swordfish, and just let time slow down. As the light fades, the village glows behind you and the horizon softens into dreamy pastel tones.
3. Ponta da Ladeira – Secluded and stunning on the West coast
If you’re in the mood for something wilder and more off the beaten path, head west to Ponta da Ladeira. Not many tourists make it out here, but that’s exactly why I love it. You stand at the edge of dramatic cliffs, with the endless Atlantic stretching out in front of you and nothing but the sound of wind and waves below.
There’s no restaurant here, no café – just nature and solitude. The kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want a quiet moment to reflect or just soak in the raw beauty of Madeira’s rugged coastline. Afterward, drive a few minutes north to Porto Moniz for dinner.
Madeira’s sunsets aren’t just beautiful – they’re soulful. Whether you’re up in the mountains, toes in the water, or standing at the edge of a cliff, they wrap you in this quiet sense of awe. And the best part? You never need to rush. The island gives you space to watch, wait, breathe, and take it all in.
Ready to discover more places like these? My Ultimate Madeira Travel Guide is packed with handpicked viewpoints, maps, and of course my favorite sunset spots on Madeira to help you explore the island your way.
