Santa Cruz Holidays from £532

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Your Santa Cruz Holiday

The lively atmosphere, beaches and cultural experiences are three of the many reasons why travellers adore this beachfront city. Discover this exciting destination in whatever way you choose with a Santa Cruz holiday package. Ready to explore your new surroundings? Palheiro Gardens, Madeira Stadium and Palmeiras Beach are three of the most popular places to visit during a trip to Santa Cruz. Whoever you're escaping with and whatever your budget, your dream Santa Cruz holiday is only clicks away with Expedia.

Top Santa Cruz Flight + Hotel Deals

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pestana Quinta Perestrello

Pestana Quinta Perestrello

4 out of 5
Price was £1,170, price is now £532 per person
£532
per person
23 Sept - 29 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
London (LGW) to Funchal (FNC)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (43 reviews)
Beautiful property. Great unfussed professional staff.

Reviewed on 1 Jul 2026

Pestana Royal All Inclusive Ocean & Spa Resort

Pestana Royal All Inclusive Ocean & Spa Resort

5 out of 5
Price was £1,398, price is now £719 per person
£719
per person
23 Sept - 29 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
London (LGW) to Funchal (FNC)
8.2/10 Very good! (140 reviews)
Pestana Royal is a very outdated hotel. If you are looking for clean modern look that is not the place for you. If you are looking for a place with high quality food that is not the right place. Food quality is very poor. It is a very mediocre place with clean rooms and very mediocre food.

Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026

Pestana Promenade Ocean Resort Hotel

Pestana Promenade Ocean Resort Hotel

4 out of 5
Price was £1,652, price is now £884 per person
£884
per person
13 Sept - 20 Sept
found 21 hours ago
Return flight included
Manchester (MAN) to Funchal (FNC)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (690 reviews)
Good

Reviewed on 15 May 2026

Pestana Casino Park Ocean and SPA Hotel

Pestana Casino Park Ocean and SPA Hotel

5 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
Price was £1,065, price is now £581 per person
£581
per person
23 Sept - 29 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
London (LGW) to Funchal (FNC)
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
This location was beautiful. Staff amazing! Breakfast buffet the best, I’ve ever had. The lobby and surrounding grounds amazing. Great room! Highly recommend.

Reviewed on 30 Jun 2026

Hotel Riu Madeira - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Madeira - All Inclusive

4 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
Price was £1,428, price is now £814 per person
£814
per person
23 Sept - 29 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
London (LGW) to Funchal (FNC)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (283 reviews)
The resort is amazing, super clean. The buffets are excellent, tons of selections, staffs are very friendly. The room was spacious and perfect. We really enjoy are stay, and we will be back.

Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026

Things to do in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz in Madeira is perfect for outdoor and beach family holidays, offering activities like golf and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy Madeira walking holidays, thrilling boat trips, and fun at Aquaparque Madeira. For those seeking adventure, there are opportunities for outdoor pursuits and scuba diving, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, you can visit the Santo da Serra Market for local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, the Funchal Farmers Market offers vibrant city vibes with fresh products, while Centro Comercial Forum Madeira is perfect for family entertainment and shopping, located 16.1km away.

Recreation

At Madeira Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying various fitness activities just 8.0km from Santa Cruz. The Lido Bathing Complex, located 14.5km away, offers family-friendly aquatic fun, while the Porto Moniz Natural Pools, 28.0km away, invite you to relax amidst stunning natural beauty.

Adventure

The Funchal Cable Car offers a thrilling ride to Monte Station, showcasing breathtaking views. For hiking enthusiasts, the PR11 Vereda dos Balcões trail presents stunning scenery and adventure. Meanwhile, the Garajau Cable Car provides a fantastic experience within Santa Cruz, perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Nightlife

Santa Cruz offers a vibrant nightlife with charming bars and local entertainment. Visit the Bar Onda on the seafront for refreshing cocktails and stunning views. For a lively atmosphere, check out the sports bars like Bar da Praia, where you can enjoy a mix of music and friendly locals.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz in the Madeira Region is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering beautiful beaches and scenic lookouts. Visitors can explore local attractions such as botanical gardens, perfect for romantic strolls or family outings. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Santa Cruz provides a delightful blend of experiences to enjoy during your stay.

  • Palmeiras Beach: Located a mere 161m from Santa Cruz, Palmeiras Beach offers a delightful escape with its golden sands and inviting waves. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming, the beach boasts a relaxed vibe that allows visitors to unwind while soaking up the sun.
  • Madeira Botanical Garden: Situated 9.7km from Santa Cruz, this stunning botanical garden is a haven for nature lovers. With its beautifully landscaped gardens, exotic plants, and romantic pathways, it provides a serene environment for families and couples alike to explore and connect with nature.
  • Ponta da Oliveira: Nestled within Santa Cruz, Ponta da Oliveira is a picturesque cape that offers breathtaking coastal scenery. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views, explore the surrounding beach area, and capture the essence of Madeira's natural beauty.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.0°F (17.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May65.3°F (18.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June68.4°F (20.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July71.1°F (21.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.0°F (22.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Cruz

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling to Santa Cruz during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Santa Cruz Beach Holiday

Listen to the waves breaking onto the shore and look out over the glistening waters during your Santa Cruz holiday. If you're in need of some time out, a trip to Santa Cruz will work wonders. We have plenty of Santa Cruz holiday deals to pick from. Lock in one close to Santa Cruz Beach, just 1 mile from the city centre, and live out your holiday dreams without hurting your budget.

Things You Should Know About Santa Cruz

  • Imagine the smell of salty breezes drifting through your window and the sound of crashing waves lulling you to sleep at night. Nothing compares to a seaside escape. Check out our Santa Cruz beach hotels and see what you can find.
  • The apartments, such as Pérola dos Anjos by MHM and Garajau I by Travel to Madeira, are popular with travellers here. Book either of these options and your holiday in Santa Cruz is sure to be unforgettable.
  • The population of Santa Cruz is approximately 6,000. If you're eager for a few travel tips, there are lots of locals who'll be able to clue you in. Our Santa Cruz things to do page is also a wealth of useful information.
  • Santa Cruz Beach is a top attraction to tick off your itinerary. If you'd love to see even more sights, our Santa Cruz holiday deals will make your budget stretch further.

Santa Cruz Essential Information

Language
Portuguese
Currency
Euros
Local Welcome
Olá
Local Goodbye
Adeus
Closest Airport
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC)
Population
6,000
Max Temp Winter
18ºC
Max Temp Summer
21ºC
Top Sights
Funchal Cable Car - Monte Station, Se Cathedral and Funchal-Monte Teleferico

Top hotels in Santa Cruz

Sentido Galosol

Sentido Galosol

4 out of 5
Rua D. Francisco Santana Santa Cruz Madeira
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £156 per night from 17 Jul to 18 Jul
£156
17 Jul - 18 Jul
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (463 reviews)
"We loved our stay at sentido! The only thing to be warned about is the parking situation. There is not much parking available, and most spots you need to pay for parking."

Reviewed on 4 Jul 2026

Sentido Galosol
Hotel Riu Madeira - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Madeira - All Inclusive

4 out of 5
Praia dos Reis Magos Santa Cruz
The price is £284 per night from 22 Jul to 23 Jul
£284
22 Jul - 23 Jul
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (283 reviews)
"The resort is amazing, super clean. The buffets are excellent, tons of selections, staffs are very friendly. The room was spacious and perfect. We really enjoy are stay, and we will be back."

Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026

Hotel Riu Madeira - All Inclusive
Garajau Madeira Hotel

Garajau Madeira Hotel

3 out of 5
Estrada do Garajau, 131 Santa Cruz
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £81 per night from 13 Jul to 14 Jul
£81
13 Jul - 14 Jul
includes taxes & fees
7.4/10 Good! (496 reviews)
"No wifi other than in reception , and the room was alot different than in the pictures but other than that everything was good ."

Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026

Garajau Madeira Hotel
See all 717 properties in Santa Cruz
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
All Inclusive Holidays
All Inclusive Holidays
Beach Holidays
Beach Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays

Stay near popular Santa Cruz attractions

Ponta da Oliveira

9.2/10 (31 reviews)
This dramatic volcanic coastline plunges underwater, creating a haven for sea anemones and colourful damselfish. Explore the clear azure waters through guided diving excursions when marine life thrives.
See properties

What to do in Santa Cruz

City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

£22
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

£30
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching
Picture 3 for Activity Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal Jeep Tour

Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal 4WD Tour

£59
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal 4WD Tour
See all activities in Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Santa Cruz holiday with Expedia?
Choose Expedia to plan your next adventure with ease, all in one place. Our top tip for getting a terrific deal on a Santa Cruz getaway? Bundle your airfares, hotel and/or car hire into a package holiday. Then throw in a couple of awesome tours and activities. Many bookings also have flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to worry if you have to switch up your travel itinerary. Round-the-clock help with changing and cancelling your trip is on-hand via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Santa Cruz?
If you love the buzz of peak season, travel to Santa Cruz in August, September and October. Travelling during the quieter months of May, November and December will help you avoid the crowds. Organise your escape to Santa Cruz based on what kind of adventure you're looking for. January is the coolest time of year, when average daytime temperatures are 16ºC. In August, the warmest month, you'll experience averages of 22ºC during the day.
What is the top hotel for my holiday in Santa Cruz?
Offering plenty of amenities and a cosy place to relax between adventures, The Cliff Bay will make the ideal base for your Santa Cruz trip.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Santa Cruz?
Browse and lock in everything in the one place with our Santa Cruz holidays. We have deals on flights, hotels and more that'll keep your pocket happy and adventurous side satisfied. And, with more than 400 airlines and 321,000 properties around the globe to select from, you'll have the flexibility to mix and match however you please. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you bundle your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my Santa Cruz holiday?
There are so many things to keep you busy while enjoying your holiday in Santa Cruz. Madeira Botanical Garden, Monte Palace Gardens, Madeira Stadium and Palheiro Gardens are some of this city's top attractions.
Do I need a visa for my Santa Cruz holiday?
Look up the latest rules on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're visiting for business, leisure or study will determine if you require a visa for Santa Cruz. Get familiar with the application process, including any required documentation, fees and turnaround times. Finalise your application well in advance to allow sufficient processing time. Some visas may take many weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country and time of year.
What should I wear on my Santa Cruz holiday?
Do some research into the sorts of clothing people in Santa Cruz wear, and maybe even check out style blogs for some fashion inspiration. Try to create a versatile travel wardrobe with pieces that suit your destination and show off your unique style.
What does an Expedia Santa Cruz holiday include?
Much of that is up to you. Simply choose from a variety of Santa Cruz packages, such as a flight, hire car and hotel. You can also book a flight with a hotel, or a flight and a car hire. Once you've made your booking, add on the fun stuff like tours and activities. Whatever your dream Santa Cruz break looks like, get ready to save! Apartments and private holiday homes are a couple of the most highly sought-after property types in Santa Cruz. No matter your holiday style or group size, you can count on Expedia for the flexibility to personalise your next dream escape.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Santa Cruz holidays?
Expedia has joined forces with online lender Klarna to make booking your next trip easier on your bank balance. Paying in instalments means you can spread the costs of your next big adventure, leaving you with more money to spend while you're away. Klarna has several payment plans to choose from, so you're sure to find something that falls within your budget. Take a look at these flexible payment options:

  • Pay monthly holidays: If paying small amounts each month is something that would work for you, Klarna can help. Paying in easy monthly instalments will make your getaway dreams come true.
  • No-deposit holidays: Hitting the "book now" button is easier with this payment plan. With no deposit required for your holiday, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your suitcase.

Can I choose my airline with a Santa Cruz Expedia holiday?
Yes, and with more than 400 airlines to pick from globally, you've got lots of choice. Have a look through the available options and find out which airline best fits your budget and needs.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.