Things to do in Santa Cruz

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Roberto Araújo
Photo by Roberto Araújo
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

Most popular activities in Santa Cruz

Tours & day trips

See all 418 activities
Funchal: Enchanted Terraces, Porto do Moniz & Fanal 4WD Tour

Funchal: Enchanted Terraces, Porto do Moniz & Fanal 4WD Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥11,087 per adult*
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Water activities

See all 69 activities
Funchal: Sunset Sailing Tour

Funchal: Sunset Sailing Tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
7.6 out of 10 with 5 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥9,502 per adult
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Classes & workshops

See all 18 activities
Madeira: Salsa and Bachata dance and discovery experience

Madeira: Salsa and Bachata dance and discovery experience

Free cancellation available
Price is ￥4,319 per adult*
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Holiday & seasonal tours

See all 11 activities
From Funchal: Cabo Girao Sunset Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

From Funchal: Cabo Girao Sunset Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥6,911 per adult
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Shows & concerts

See all 5 activities
West Madeira:, Laurel Forest, Waterfall, Rock Pools, Walk

West Madeira:, Laurel Forest, Waterfall, Rock Pools, Walk

Activity duration is 8 hours
8.8 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥5,183 per adult
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What to do in Santa Cruz

Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Cruz

Ponta da Oliveira showing landscape views and general coastal views

Ponta da Oliveira

Find a secluded dive spot in the cove protected by this dramatic rocky bluff or walk along cliff-top paths to take in Atlantic coast views.

Ponta da Oliveira

Santo da Serra Market

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Santo da Serra Market during your trip to Santo da Serra. While you're in the area, wander around the gardens.

Santo da Serra Market

Quinta Da Junta

Explore the great outdoors at Quinta Da Junta, a lovely green space in Santo da Serra. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Quinta Da Junta

Palheiro Golfe

Enjoy a round of golf in Canico at Palheiro Golfe. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Palheiro Golfe

Garajau Cable Car

You can take time to visit Garajau Cable Car during your travels to Canico. Amble around the area's seaside or visit its spas.

Garajau Cable Car

Cristo Rei

You can learn about the history of Canico with a trip to Cristo Rei. Stroll along the seaside or attend a sporting event in the area.

Cristo Rei

Aquaparque Madeira

Enjoy an outing to Aquaparque Madeira during your stay in Pinheiro.

Aquaparque Madeira

Popular day trips from Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Beach featuring a pebble beach and a coastal town as well as a small group of people

Santa Cruz

Machico showing a pebble beach

Machico

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Cruz worth visiting?
Santa Cruz has a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into nature, history or regional cuisine, there's plenty here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Santa Cruz?
When you've checked off major attractions like Quinta Da Junta, spend the rest of your day enjoying the food and retail options in Santa Cruz.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Cruz?
Quinta Da Junta is ranked the top tourist attraction near Santa Cruz, so don't go home without checking it out.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Cruz?
Book a getaway in Santa Cruz for three days and you'll have enough time to explore its key sights and get a taste for the local vibe. For the chance to see highlights in the surrounding areas and venture off the tourist trail, consider visiting for up to 10 days.
What are some activities to do in Santa Cruz with kids?
If you're looking for sights and tours for all of your group, have a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in Santa Cruz with kids.

What to do in Santa Cruz for adults?
From regional food and cultural gems to outdoor activities and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are loads of exciting things to do in Santa Cruz for adults.
Are there free things to do in Santa Cruz?
You won't have to hunt high and low for free things to do in Santa Cruz. If you ask a local tour guide and they'll tell you about places you can visit at no charge. One free option for your list is Quinta Da Junta.