Barreirinha
Portugal — Excellent water quality
Barreirinha is a beach complex on Funchal's east side, near Forte de S. Tiago in the old city. You reach the water by stairs. The beach has a bar, showers, and toilets (including accessible facilities), plus a First Aid Post.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Barreirinha
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Barreirinha?
Barreirinha is a beach complex on Funchal's east side, near Forte de S. Tiago in the old city. You reach the water by stairs. The beach has a bar, showers, and toilets (including accessible facilities), plus a First Aid Post.
It is part of a wider group of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Visitor Feedback
What Visitors Say About Barreirinha
What visitors appreciate
- showers|sun umbrellas|deck chairs|sunbathing|access to the sea|entrance fee|sun loungers|sea swimming|clean toilets|central location
- Well-staffed with lifeguards during season
- Excellent EU-rated bathing water quality
Points to consider
- Can be busy during July and August peak season
- Facilities may be reduced outside peak months
Based on aggregated public visitor feedback. Themes are synthesised from multiple sources — not individual quotes. Zeach does not reproduce individual reviews.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Barreirinha faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Feb | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Mar | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Apr | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| May | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| Jun | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Jul | 22°C | 19°C | High |
| Aug | 24°C | 21°C | High |
| Sep | 23°C | 20°C | Med |
| Oct | 21°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| Dec | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
The best time to visit Barreirinha is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 22.3°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 19.3°C in July.
How crowded does Barreirinha get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Barreirinha sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Barreirinha open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-06 – 15-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Barreirinha
Is Barreirinha safe to swim?Barreirinha is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Barreirinha?Peak water temperature at Barreirinha reaches around <span class="inline-stat">19.3°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 16.2°C.
What is the beach like at Barreirinha?Barreirinha of Portugal. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Barreirinha have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Barreirinha meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Showers are available. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Barreirinha sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Planning a trip to Portugal? Blue Flag Beaches Portugal — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Barreirinha
How do I get to Barreirinha by car?Barreirinha is approximately 1.11 km from Funchal. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Barreirinha?The nearest airport is Madeira Airport (FNC) (FNC), approximately 12.8 km away.
Can I get to Barreirinha by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Funchal.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-06 – 15-09 |
| Beach Type | Rocky shore |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 32.6466°N, 16.8974°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Barreirinha FAQ
Is Barreirinha suitable for children?
Barreirinha is a Blue Flag certified beach in Portugal. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season, providing an important safety layer for families. Shower facilities are available. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Barreirinha free to access?
Yes, access to Barreirinha is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including showers and toilets are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Barreirinha?
The best time to visit Barreirinha is June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 19.3°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 22.3°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Barreirinha?
Barreirinha is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Barreirinha?
Barreirinha is located in Portugal. It is approximately 1.11 km from Funchal. The nearest airport is Madeira Airport (FNC) (FNC), 12.8 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Portugal
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
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