What's the weather like in Madeira in September
On average, September is the hottest month of the year in Madeira, when clear blue skies and hours of sunshine are practically guaranteed every single day.
Temperature
During this month, the average temperature for the island slowly falls as the month progresses, dropping from 23.5°C at the start of the month down to 22.5°C by the end of the month. Daily highs and daily lows follow a similar pattern, falling from 26°C to 25°C and 21°C to 20°C, respectively, as the month progresses.
Rain
Across September, Madeira is subject to an average rainfall of 36mm (one inch) which is divided between nine days. With rain falling on just short of 1/3 of days throughout the month, there is a good chance you'll experience some of the wet stuff, but because the overall rainfall is so low, it will hardly affect your holiday at all.
The likelihood of precipitation falling at any point during September in Madeira is at its highest around September 30th, when it occurs in 36% of days. On the other hand, precipitation is least likely to occur around September 1st, when it only falls on 29% of days. If you do experience some sort of precipitation during your holiday in Madeira, it will most likely be light rain, drizzle or moderate rain.
Average Sunshine Hours
Throughout the month, Madeira enjoys an average of eight hours of sunshine each day that's two hours less every day than the previous month. With so much sunshine, you'll have loads of opportunities to work on your tan at the beach.
Daylight Hours
Across September, the length of the day is gradually decreasing, with a difference of 58 minutes between September 1st and September 30th. The shortest day of the month is September 30th, with 11 hours and 52 minutes of daylight, whilst the longest day of the month is September 1st with 12 hours and 50 minutes of daylight.
Visibility
In September, the sky in Madeira is best described as being partly cloudy, with an average cloud coverage of 45% - that's a little bit higher than the previous month. This average figure is created from highs of 47% around September 30th and lows of 44% around September 1st.
Wind
During an average September in Madeira, typical wind speeds normally vary between 1 m/s and 7 m/s (light breeze to moderate breeze), almost never exceeding 9 m/s (fresh breeze). The highest average wind speed of 4 m/s tends to occur around September 1st, when the average daily maximum wind speed is 7 m/s.
On the other hand, the lowest average wind speed of 4 m/s normally happens around September 18th, when the average daily maximum wind speed is 6 m/s. Throughout the month, the wind is most often coming from a north easterly direction.
Humidity
The relative humidity for Madeira during September fluctuates between 53% (mildly humid) and 81% (humid), almost never dropping below 41% (comfortable) or exceeding 90% (very humid). The air is usually at its driest around September 8th, when the relative humidity levels drop below 58% three days out of every four. September 30th is when the air is normally at its most humid, when the relative humidity levels exceed 75% three days out of every four.
Average Sea Temperature
During this month, the average sea temperature for the island is 24°C, making it the best time of year to go swimming. Even though everyone feels sea water differently, most visitors to the island will agree that this temperature is perfect for scuba diving, snorkelling and swimming, which is why you'll see so many people on the beaches at this time of year.
Madeira Hotels in September
When it comes to traditional Madeiran accommodation, it doesn't get much more authentic than Quinta do Abouco. This manor house provides a home-away-from-home atmosphere, with single and double rooms, as well as suites and houses. There is a handful of facilities available, including restaurant and gardens.
Travellers on a tight budget should think about staying at White Waters. This low-cost complex provides guests with access to standard rooms, accessible rooms and junior suites, providing something for everyone. Onsite services and amenities include: restaurant, snack bar, WiFi access, garden terrace and children's corner.
The Four Views Oasis is another budget-friendly option. Here you'll find standard studios, superior studios and suites, many of which come with sea or garden views. Onsite facilities include swimming pools, bars, restaurants, spa, gym and private shuttle.
Bars and Restaurants
Stop by Pastelaria Boutique Lido in Funchal for a light lunch, afternoon coffee or slice of cake. This friendly and unassuming cafe serves up a mouth-watering variety of sweet treats at reasonable prices; the savoury snacks are just as pleasing too.
Seafood lovers must pay a visit to Gaviao Novo in Funchal. Located in the historic heart of the town, this reputed restaurant presents fine food using locally-sourced ingredients. The shellfish and chef's specials both come highly recommended, but there is also a wide range of meat dishes, appetisers and soups to choose from if you're in the mood for something else.
Jam is another great choice when it comes nightclubs in Madeira. Located next door to Vespas, this club is known for playing popular 80s tunes which usually attract an older, fun-loving crowd.
Things to do in Madeira in September
The Jardim Botanico in Funchal is one of the attractions that offers free entry on World Tourism Day. This garden displays over 2,500 varieties of exotic plants and flowers and is so large it even offers cable car transport in order for visitors to see it all. The garden is open daily from 9am - 6pm.
With high temperatures and loads of sunshine, September is a great month to hit the beach.
Praia de Machico is one of the most popular on the island and features golden sands lapped by clear blue waters which are perfect for swimming in. There are plenty of services and facilities to enjoy on the beach, including sun loungers, parasols, children's swimming pools, showers, toilets, lifeguards, changing rooms, water sports and parking. There are many bars and restaurants nearby, too, so you won't be stuck when it comes to lunch.
For swimming opportunities without the sand, you can't beat the Lido located in Funchal. This area is situated on the coast and is made up of large and small sea water open-air swimming pools, solarium, sun loungers, shade, changing rooms, lockers, babysitting facilities, table tennis, diving centre, water slide, shop, restaurant, snack bars, life guards and a car park.
If the heat of the September sunshine is just too much, keeping in the shade of Madeira's many shops is an ideal way to spend an afternoon.
The Dolce Vita Shopping Centre
boasts more than 70 different shops under one roof, as well as a well-populated food court offering both Madeiran delicacies as well as home comforts such as Burger King.
