Madeira in Summer: Weather, Festivals and Things to Do

Summer in Madeira is warm rather than scorching, with the sea at its warmest, long days for hiking, and festivals filling the streets of Funchal. It’s the island’s busiest season, so planning ahead pays off. Here’s what to expect from June to September.

Quick answer: expect around 24 to 27°C in Funchal, sea temperatures of about 22 to 24°C, and lots of sunshine on the south coast. Highlights include swimming in natural lava pools, early-morning hikes, the Atlantic Festival fireworks in June and the Wine Festival in late summer. Book flights, cars and trail slots early.

Weather

• Warm and sunny on the south coast. The north is greener and cloudier.
• Mountains: cooler, and often above or in the clouds.
• Sea: the warmest of the year.

Things to do

• Swim in the lava pools at Porto Moniz and Seixal. See Porto Moniz.
• Beach day on Porto Santo’s golden sand. See Porto Santo.
• Hike early: sunrise at Pico do Arieiro. See PR1 and levada walks.
• Whale and dolphin watching. See the best Madeira tours.
• Festivals: the Atlantic Festival brings fireworks on Saturday nights in June, and the Madeira Wine Festival takes place in late summer.
• Canyoning and coasteering.

Tips

• Book early: summer is busy, especially in August.
• Trail slots: official trails need a booked slot and fee.
• Wildfires: check for trail closures in hot, dry spells.
• Where to stay: see where to stay in Madeira.

More: Madeira in winter, the Madeira itinerary and things to do in Funchal.

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