Pestana Ocean Bay Resort

Pestana Ocean Bay Resort is a four-star resort at Praia Formosa, at the western end of the hotel zone in Funchal, Madeira. Praia Formosa is the city's long pebble beach, and the resort sits above it, well away from the old town, which is a few kilometres east. A free shuttle runs to central Funchal, solving the main drawback of the distance, and taxis and buses are also available. The airport is about 20 kilometres away. The property is a large resort with a relaxed, family-oriented character, with a guest rating of about 4.2 in the data held for this guide. Rooms are sold as classic, superior, premium and junior suite categories, with the premium and suite rooms offering more space and better outlooks over the bay. Facilities include an outdoor pool with sea views, a children's pool, a sauna, a steam room and a Turkish bath, with on-site parking available. Dining centres on the Arlequim buffet restaurant, which serves breakfast and dinner in a buffet format with international and Madeiran dishes, and a bar with live music provides evening entertainment. The resort does not have the extensive spa or multiple restaurants of the larger five-star properties, but its combination of beach proximity, a children's pool and a shuttle makes it practical for families and groups. Service is resort-style, with staff able to arrange excursions such as levada walks, Cabo Girão, the Botanical Garden and whale watching trips. Praia Formosa has a promenade used for walking and jogging, and several cafes and restaurants are close to the beach. The hillside location means that walking to the beach involves a descent and return climb, so the shuttle and taxis are widely used. It suits families and travellers seeking a quieter western base with beach access, rather than those wanting to be in the historic centre.