The tiny road downhill from Estrada Elemental on Quinta da Calaça leading to the Promenade is one of those ideal little pockets in Funchal that packs almost everything you could want into a small area. It’s a mix of coastal beauty and charm with easy access to everything, including Forum and the Lido area It's nestled along the waterfront, with access to the sea and stunning views from every angle.

On the gateway to the Promenade is Ponta Gorda, an established public swimming complex, and a worthy draw for both locals and visitors. It’s a spot where people come to relax, swim in the saltwater pools, and enjoy the ocean.

The private Clube Naval, just nearby, adds a slightly sporty vibe and the key to privacy for the locals (with its expense and possible waitlist to join and hefty one-day pass price). But it's well worth being a part of that community. Many people bring laptops and work there all day. Everyone knows everyone and you can't beat the networking at a good, private beach club.

Unlike some of the more tourist-heavy parts of Funchal, this zone is more contained and laid-back with a few residential homes, both modern and traditional, tucked into this area, but it’s not as densely packed as areas like Lido.

Worth mentioning is the hard-to-miss condo tower named Apartamentos do Mar situated in an incredible location with amazing views.The do Mar building is a 7-level hotel-turned-condo and unfortunately looks to be poorly maintained from the outdoors and in the common areas. It only has tiny studios that are mostly are used as Airbnbs. Occasionally one will be listed for sale by owner, but they're hard to get.

Mostly the area is filled with long-term home owners living in an almost perfect location. Unfortunately, this neighborhood rarely has property for sale, so for some it's literally just a dream to live in.