Porto Santo’s main beach runs for almost 9 km, stretching nearly the full length of the island, and it’s hard not to end up here at least once a day. The sand is fine and golden, the sea is usually calm, and the scale of it all means there’s always room to spread out, even during summertime. Beach bars and cafés can be found right behind the dunes, and Vila Baleira, the island's main town, is just around the corner, making it easy to combine a swim with a coffee, a snack, or a stroll through the streets.

Founded more than 150 years ago, the Bürgerpark has more than enough space for people to relax or take part in sport. There's any number of ways of keeping active here – running, cycling, rowing on the lakes or playing mini golf. Children can let off steam in the many playgrounds or visit their furry friends (goats, sheep and guinea pigs) in the open air animal enclosures. The grassy meadows are the perfect place to have a picnic. Alternatively, there's a great selection of refreshments available at any of the park's four restaurants. The municipal forest is located right next to the Bürgerpark. Its lake (also known as the Unisee (university lake)) is a wonderful place for swimming in summertime.

The city's most staggering discovery is the brutalist National Library building, a structure so bizarre and seemingly out of place that many are left unsure as to what to make of it. It still is a perfectly functional library, so do drop in to get a good look at what's inside – you might just chance upon an English-language exhibition.

Located between Great Bay and Little Bay in the southern part of the island, Fort Amsterdam dates back nearly four centuries. It was constructed by Dutch settlers who claimed the island in 1631 and utilized shortly thereafter in battle with Spanish occupiers. There isn't much left of the fort itself, but the surrounding nature is spectacular. Wear comfortable shoes and look out for iguanas.