Beaches & Coast
When Calheta beach looks smaller
The sand is imported and held by breakwaters. After a southwest swell the beach can show more rock. Look before you drive.
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Calheta's beach is not a natural dune. Sand was brought in and is held by breakwaters. After a strong southwest swell, part of that sand moves and the shore can look thin or rocky until it is pushed back. The Calheta camera is the check. If you can see a strip of sand and people on it, the beach is there. If the frame is mostly rock and white water, it is a poor swimming morning even though the town is on the sheltered southwest.
This is not a works diary and it does not name a date when the sand will return. Open the camera on the day. If Calheta is rough, Ponta do Sol is the next town east, and Praia Formosa is the Funchal option in the beach guide.
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