I’m treating Pontinhas as the locality on Porto Santo, Madeira, which works really well for a quieter island golf holiday with beach time built in. For golfers who like Madeira but want something softer, sunnier and more laid-back than Funchal, Pontinhas gives you a peaceful base close to Porto Santo’s famous golden coastline.

For golf, the big draw is Porto Santo Golf Club. Designed by Seve Ballesteros, it opened in 2004 and includes an 18-hole course plus a 9-hole par-3 course, making it suitable for both serious golfers and mixed-ability groups. The main course is a proper island experience, with lakes, wide Atlantic views and dramatic cliffside holes, so it feels very different from a standard resort round.

Away from the course, Porto Santo is all about slowing down. The island is famous for its nine-kilometre sandy beach, with golden sand and warm waters, making it ideal for relaxed afternoons after golf. We would also recommend the Porto Santo Promenade, Portela Viewpoint, Calheta Beach for sunset, and a wander around Vila Baleira for food, drinks and local island atmosphere.

Our tip: choose Pontinhas if your group wants a Madeira golf break that feels calm, scenic and easy, with great golf, beach days and proper island charm.