Things to do in Santa Cruz

Activities, attractions and tours

Santa Cruz Beach which includes a coastal town and a pebble beach as well as a small group of people
Santa Cruz Beach showing tropical scenes and a pebble beach
Santa Cruz Beach showing rocky coastline
Santa Cruz Beach featuring a pebble beach and tropical scenes
Santa Cruz Beach showing a coastal town and a pebble beach

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Most popular experiences in Santa Cruz

Tours & day trips

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Funchal: Enchanted Terraces, Porto do Moniz & Fanal 4WD Tour

Funchal: Enchanted Terraces, Porto do Moniz & Fanal 4WD Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 320 per adult*
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Private & custom tours

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Monte Tobbogans + Old Town Tuk-Tuk Private Tour

Monte Tobbogans + Old Town Tuk-Tuk Private Tour

Activity duration is 2 hours
6.6 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 209 per adult
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Classes & workshops

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Madeira: Salsa and Bachata dance and discovery experience

Madeira: Salsa and Bachata dance and discovery experience

Free cancellation available
Price is RM 125 per adult*
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Holiday & seasonal tours

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From Funchal: Cabo Girao Sunset Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

From Funchal: Cabo Girao Sunset Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 199 per adult
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Shows & concerts

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Madeira: Pico Arieiro Sunset with Stairway to Heaven Option

Madeira: Pico Arieiro Sunset with Stairway to Heaven Option

Activity duration is 3 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 224 per adult
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What to do in Santa Cruz

Popular places to visit

Ponta da Oliveira featuring general coastal views and landscape views

Ponta da Oliveira

Find a secluded dive spot in the cove protected by this dramatic rocky bluff or walk along cliff-top paths to take in Atlantic coast views.

Ponta da Oliveira

Santo da Serra Market

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Santo da Serra Market during your visit to Santo da Serra. While you're in the area, wander around the gardens.

Santo da Serra Market

Quinta Da Junta

Explore the great outdoors at Quinta Da Junta, a lovely green space in Santo da Serra. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Quinta Da Junta

Palheiro Golfe

Enjoy a round of golf in Canico at Palheiro Golfe. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Palheiro Golfe

Garajau Cable Car

You can take time to visit Garajau Cable Car during your travels to Canico. Amble around the area's seaside or visit its spas.

Garajau Cable Car

Cristo Rei

You can learn about the history of Canico with a stop at Cristo Rei. Stroll along the seaside or attend a sporting event in the area.

Cristo Rei

Aquaparque Madeira

Enjoy an outing to Aquaparque Madeira during your stay in Pinheiro.

Aquaparque Madeira
Machico which includes a pebble beach

Machico

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Cruz worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Santa Cruz is visit CR7 Museum. Tick this leading attraction off your to-do list, then discover more of the area's fishing and coastal beaches.
How do I spend a day in Santa Cruz?
CR7 Museum and Lido Bathing Complex are two excellent places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Santa Cruz while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Cruz?
The top tourist attraction in Santa Cruz is CR7 Museum, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Cruz?
Three days is enough for a quick getaway to Santa Cruz — you'll tick off the main attractions and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you really want to soak it all in, plan at least a week to explore the nearby areas too.
What are some activities to do in Santa Cruz with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our ideas for what to do in Santa Cruz with kids.

What to do in Santa Cruz for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Santa Cruz, with experiences for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Museu da Madeira Wine Company or Civic Centre of Santa Maria Maior.
Are there free things to do in Santa Cruz?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Santa Cruz. If you're looking for inspiration, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Palmeiras Beach is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.