Windsurfing and Kitesurfing in Madeira

Enjoy the thrill of windsurfing and kitesurfing in Madeira! These radical sports are very popular on the island, which offers excellent conditions for people of all ages and skill levels. 


There are many potential spots for windsurfing all over the island, but the south of Madeira has the best beach access. Funchal, Porto da Cruz, Achadas da Cruz, Caniço, Caniçal, Paul do Mar and Porto Santo are some of the best places to windsurf all year round. Visitors can try kitesurfing in Funchal Bay, Praia Formosa and Porto Santo.

João Rodrigues is Madeira’s windsurfing world champion and one of the best RS:X windsurfers in the world. He has represented Portugal in the Olympic Games for over 16 years, in 121 international competitions, winning 51 medals – 22 gold, 16 silver and 13 bronze. He won his first world championship in Port Elizabeth, South Africa in 1995.  


On 14 June 2011, João Rodrigues entered the Guinness Book of World Records by windsurfing more than 160 consecutive miles (296 kilometres) across open Atlantic waters from Madeira Island to Selvagem Grande, successfully completing his dream challenge in only 10 hours.

For more information on courses or equipment rental, click the links below. Whether you are starting out or are a professional, be sure to follow safety regulations.


H2O Madeira – Calheta – Windsurf lessons & equipment rental

Clube Naval do Funchal – Windsurfing courses

Clube Força 5 Madeira – Funchal - Windsurfing courses


Upcoming events:
European Windsurfing Championships, Funchal, Madeira February 24th through March 1st 2012. Organised by Clube Naval do Funchal.