Santa Cruz Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Scenic Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts serene beaches perfect for sunbathing and relaxation amidst stunning coastal views.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails and a local golf course, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
• Charming Downtown: Stroll through the vibrant downtown area, filled with friendly locals, shops, and delightful eateries.
• Botanical Gardens: Explore beautiful botanical gardens that showcase the region's diverse flora and provide tranquil spaces.
• Versatile Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Explore a range of delightful accommodation options in Santa Cruz, Madeira, perfect for adventure seekers, families, and beach lovers alike. From luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, you will find an array of facilities to enhance your stay. Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or an active vacation experience, Santa Cruz has something to offer everyone. Read hotel reviews and discover the best places to stay in this picturesque destination.

• Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina: Nestled 10km from Santa Cruz, Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation, rated 8.8 out of 10. This 3.5-star hotel is ideal for those seeking a beach getaway with a sense of adventure. Guests can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities including mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and Segway tours. The property welcomes pets, providing dedicated amenities such as food and water bowls, ensuring your furry friends can join in on the fun. The direct beach access enhances the overall vacation experience, making it a popular choice for active travellers.
• Dom Pedro Madeira: A mere 3km from Santa Cruz, the 4-star Dom Pedro Madeira holds an 8.0 out of 10 rating, catering to families looking for a beach holiday. This hotel features direct access to the beach, alongside a range of child-friendly amenities such as an arcade game room and babysitting services. The dedicated children's facilities ensure that younger guests are well-entertained, allowing families to create cherished memories together. With its focus on family-friendly experiences, this hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere for those travelling with children.
• TURIM Santa Maria Hotel: Located 11km from Santa Cruz, the 4-star TURIM Santa Maria Hotel boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Set in the city centre, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a nature-themed escape while enjoying urban convenience. The property features direct beach access and offers a rooftop terrace, providing guests with a serene environment to unwind and connect with nature. With a focus on wellness, TURIM Santa Maria combines natural elements with modern comforts to enhance your stay.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, nestled in the enchanting Madeira Region, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Explore the serene Santa Cruz Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, or wander through the charming downtown area, bustling with friendly locals. Nearby, the stunning Canary Islands beckon with their captivating culture and scenic vistas. Whether seeking romance or a peaceful retreat, this destination promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Machico: Situated approximately 5km from Santa Cruz, Machico is a charming city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor and beach experiences. With a peak in visitor numbers during June to July and September, Machico is perfect for families seeking a fun-filled getaway. The city boasts an aquatic centre and a golf course, catering to both relaxation and recreation. Local landmarks such as the picturesque beach, marina, and park provide ample opportunities for leisurely strolls and scenic views, making Machico a must-visit destination.
• Canico: Nestled within the Santa Cruz area, Canico is a quaint parish that attracts visitors for its outdoor adventures and sports activities. The peak tourist season occurs in March to April and September. Here, you can explore the stunning coastline while enjoying activities like golfing and taking a scenic cable car ride. The local marina, beautiful beaches, and inviting parks create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that visitors can unwind amidst nature and partake in various recreational pursuits.
• Camacha: Also located in the Santa Cruz vicinity, Camacha is a lovely parish known for its family-friendly environment and outdoor attractions. With peak visitor numbers in April and during the summer months from July to August, Camacha is an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant holiday experience. The area features a golf course and a cable car gondola for thrill-seekers. The nearby beach, marina, and park offer stunning views and opportunities for relaxation, making Camacha a delightful spot to explore during your visit.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, you can enjoy local shops and boutiques offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Madeira Shopping Centre, located around 18km away, features a range of international brands, dining options, and entertainment to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

Spa do Vinho offers a tranquil atmosphere with rejuvenating treatments inspired by local wines, perfect for unwinding. Nearby, the scenic Praia das Palmeiras invites you to enjoy sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the coastline, while the lush surroundings make for a refreshing escape into nature.

Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating ride at the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, located 43km from Santa Cruz, where stunning vistas await. Explore the Funchal-Monte Teleferico, just 11km away, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. Experience the Funchal Cable Car - Monte Station, situated 10km from Santa Cruz, for more scenic adventure.

Nightlife

Enjoy a lively evening at the Bar do Povo, where you can sip on cocktails while mingling with locals. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Café do Mercado for a selection of wines and light bites, all set in a charming atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

To save money on your trip to Santa Cruz, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, February, and November for lower prices. Utilise the local bus services for affordable transport, and enjoy free attractions like the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte. Book your hotel a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Fridays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays tend to be the most expensive. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can also provide significant savings.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Cruz is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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 enables you to specify your budget, choice of location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your selection by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Madeira, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, offering a delightful blend of botanical gardens, beautiful beaches, and stunning lookouts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions that cater to those seeking outdoor adventures, family fun, or a romantic getaway, making it a versatile spot for all types of travellers.

• Cristo Rei: This impressive monument, located within Santa Cruz, offers a unique cultural experience. Standing tall, it provides a sense of peace and reverence, allowing visitors to reflect on its significance while enjoying the surrounding views.
• Monte Palace Gardens: A short drive away, these lush botanical gardens are a haven for families and couples alike. Explore the diverse flora, tranquil ponds, and stunning tile displays, making it an ideal spot for a romantic stroll or a leisurely family outing.
• Pico do Facho Viewpoint: Situated 5km from Santa Cruz, this lookout offers adventurous souls a chance to hike and soak in panoramic views of the coastline. The breathtaking scenery creates a perfect backdrop for memorable moments and romantic sunsets.

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

Accessing Santa Cruz in the Madeira region is convenient via two major airports. Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo) is located 1km away, with excellent hotel options nearby, such as the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 322m from the airport. The Pestana Casino Park Ocean and SPA Hotel and Savoy Palace are both 14km away, providing airport transportation services. Alternatively, Porto Santo Airport (PXO) is situated 60km from Santa Cruz, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa, 3km away, and the 4-star Torre Praia Hotel, just 2km from the airport, offering convenient access to the terminal.