Find hotels in Santa Cruz from $86

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Cruz is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic hiking trails and golf courses for a fun day out.
• Beautiful Beaches: The area features stunning rocky beaches that provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and breathtaking views.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a range of attractions, including an amusement park and botanical gardens, perfect for visitors of all ages.
• Water Sports: Take advantage of easy marina access for exciting water sports and boat trips around Madeira Island.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Explore local shops and experience the friendly atmosphere that enhances your visit to this coastal town.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Santa Cruz, Madeira, perfect for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, planning a family vacation, or on a business trip, you'll find a variety of options from cozy guesthouses to luxurious star-rated hotels. Explore the best hotels that cater to your needs and enjoy a memorable stay in this beautiful coastal town.

• Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina: This charming 3.5-star resort boasts a guest rating of 8.8 and is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. Located 6 miles from Santa Cruz, Dreams Madeira offers direct beach access and a variety of outdoor activities like mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and Segway tours. The property is pet-friendly, allowing dogs with specific amenities like food and water bowls. Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with adventure sports on-site or nearby, making it an ideal choice for those looking to embrace the great outdoors while enjoying a beach vacation.
• Dom Pedro Madeira: A family-friendly 4-star hotel, Dom Pedro Madeira has a guest rating of 8.0 and is situated 2 miles from Santa Cruz. This property offers direct access to the beach and provides a range of amenities tailored for children, including a children's pool, babysitting services, and an arcade game room. Parents can relax knowing that their little ones are entertained while they enjoy the beach or unwind at the hotel. The welcoming environment and convenient location make Dom Pedro Madeira an excellent choice for families looking to create lasting memories on their vacation.
• TURIM Santa Maria Hotel: Rated 9.4, this 4-star gem is located 7 miles from Santa Cruz, right in the heart of the city. TURIM Santa Maria offers direct beach access and emphasizes a nature-themed, wellness-focused experience. Guests can unwind on the rooftop terrace, surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring. With its blend of city charm and natural beauty, this hotel is perfect for those who want to enjoy both the vibrant urban life and the serenity of nature.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, located in the stunning Madeira Region of Portugal, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and beach relaxation for families and couples alike. Explore its charming neighborhoods, unwind on rocky beaches, and soak in breathtaking views. Nearby shops provide a taste of local culture, while the friendly atmosphere ensures a memorable experience. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, Santa Cruz has something for everyone.

• Machico: Located a mere 3 miles from Santa Cruz, Machico offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. This charming city sees a steady stream of visitors, especially during the peak months of June to July and September. Machico is renowned for its beautiful beaches and a well-equipped aquatic center, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. Enthusiasts of golf can take advantage of the nearby golf courses, while the picturesque marina and parks provide scenic spots for relaxation and exploration. With its welcoming atmosphere and engaging activities, Machico is a must-visit destination.
• Canico: Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz area, Canico is a parish with a moderate tourist influx, peaking in March to April and September. Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures, Canico is ideal for sports lovers and leisure seekers alike. The local golf courses offer challenging play, while the cable car provides breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. Close to the marina and lush parks, Canico invites visitors to immerse themselves in natural beauty and engage in a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Canico has it all.
• Camacha: Another charming parish in the Santa Cruz area, Camacha attracts visitors year-round, with a notable rise in arrivals during April and the summer months of July to August. This idyllic locale is perfect for families looking to enjoy outdoor experiences and beach fun. The area's accessible golf courses and the scenic cable car gondola add to its appeal. Visitors can also explore the beautiful beaches, marina, and parks nearby, making Camacha a fantastic destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. With its blend of activities and stunning scenery, Camacha is sure to enhance your Madeira experience.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of outdoor and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. Enjoy golfing at local courses or explore scenic hiking trails. Don't miss out on tours around Madeira Island, a visit to the yacht club, and fun at the amusement park. With easy marina access, you can also indulge in water sports and boat trips, ensuring a memorable stay in this charming destination.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Madeira Shopping, located about 10 miles away, featuring a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment for a complete shopping experience.

Recreation

In Santa Cruz, the Aqua Madeira Spa provides rejuvenating treatments with ocean views, perfect for relaxation. Engage in yoga sessions at the nearby Eden Madeira, where you can connect with nature while practicing mindfulness in a serene atmosphere surrounded by lush gardens.

Adventure

Explore the stunning trails of the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, a picturesque hike through lush vegetation and waterfalls. For an adrenaline rush, try canyoning in Ribeira das Cales, where you can jump, slide, and rappel down natural rock formations while enjoying breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

In Santa Cruz, the nightlife buzzes with charming bars and lively restaurants. Enjoy a drink at Bar O Pescador for local wines, or dance at the trendy Pacha Madeira, known for its vibrant atmosphere and DJ sets. The coastal views add a magical touch to your night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Cruz are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Santa Cruz about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Cruz is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Cruz is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results to display the lowest prices first, helping you find the most affordable hotels right away. Plus, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, located in the Madeira Region of Portugal, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including beautiful botanical gardens, scenic beaches, and private gardens. The area's points of interest cater to those seeking outdoor adventures, romantic experiences, and family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable getaway for travelers of all ages.

• Ponta da Oliveira: Experience stunning coastal views at Ponta da Oliveira, a picturesque cape in Santa Cruz. The area offers beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery, perfect for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty of Madeira.
• Madeira Botanical Garden: Located 6 miles from Santa Cruz, the Madeira Botanical Garden is a serene escape featuring lush gardens and vibrant flora. Ideal for families and couples, this outdoor space invites leisurely strolls and moments of romance among nature.
• Palmeiras Beach: Just 0.1 mile from Santa Cruz, Palmeiras Beach boasts golden sands and inviting waters. Relax, sunbathe, or enjoy water activities while soaking up the vibrant beach atmosphere.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	68.4°F (20.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

If you're planning a visit to Santa Cruz in the Madeira Region, your best option is to fly into Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo), located 0.9 miles away. Nearby, you can find excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 0.2 miles from the airport. Other luxury options include Savoy Palace and The Cliff Bay, both approximately 9 and 10 miles away, respectively, with transportation services available. Alternatively, you could fly into Porto Santo Airport (PXO), situated 37 miles from Santa Cruz, with hotels like Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa and Vila Baleira Porto Santo located just 2 miles away, providing convenient access to the airport.