Praia da Calheta

Praia da Calheta is the western half of Calheta's twin artificial beach. It shares the same imported Moroccan sand and the same protective breakwaters, but sits a little further from the marina bars, which keeps it marginally quieter in high season.

Access is the same as for the eastern cove: VE3 to Calheta, parking above the marina, then a short walk along the sand. Sunbeds and parasols rent on both coves; the marina restaurants are a five-minute stroll.

If the eastern cove looks crowded, walk west — the water is equally calm, the sunset view is identical, and there is usually space for a towel even in August. Swim inside the breakwater line; the open Atlantic begins just beyond it.