Porto Santo Plans Nine New Holes, Public Tender Expected This Month
Porto Santo is preparing to expand its only golf course, adding nine new holes in a project set to go to public tender later this month, according to recent remarks by the Regional Secretary for Equipment and Infrastructure, Pedro Rodrigues.
The expansion would transform the existing 18-hole Porto Santo Golfe, into a larger complex, by adding a new nine-hole-development - which is expected to be transformed into a new 18-hole course in the future.
A new nine-hole development is planned further down the line, with a view to expanding this to a second 18-hole course in the future.
Albuquerque Previously Confirmed He Would Like to See Two New Golf Courses in Madeira’s North
While the Porto Santo expansion moves forward, President Miguel Albuquerque - as previously reported - has publicly confirmed that he would like to see two additional golf courses on Madeira’s main island — one in Ribeira do Faial and another possibly in Ribeira de São Jorge. In an interview with RTP Madeira, he said the government’s priority is to “finalize the Ponta do Pargo course” before making decisions on the next projects.
At the moment, as you know, we are finalizing the Ponta do Pargo course, which is an exceptional course (…) But I have no doubt that Madeira needs another one to become a top golf destination.
Miguel Albuquerque RTP Madeira
These new courses, together with the existing and planned developments, including Porto Santo - could bring the total number of golf courses across the archipelago to seven - a notable increase for a region with fewer than 260,000 residents.
Existing And Potential Golf Courses on Madeira and Porto Santo
Existing Golf Courses
Porto Santo Golfe (Porto Santo) - operational 18-hole course designed by Seve Ballesteros; a 9-hole pitch-and-putt also exists.
Santo da Serra Golf Club (Madeira Island) - 27 holes; long-established and used for European Tour events.
Palheiro Golf (Madeira Island) - 18 holes overlooking Funchal; operational since 1993.
Golf Course In Development
Ponta do Pargo Golf (Madeira Island) - designed by Sir Nick Faldo; under construction, with regional authorities confirming a €12 million investment and expected completion around 2026.
Planned / Under Study
Ribeira do Faial (Madeira Island) - identified by President Miguel Albuquerque as the next potential project; feasibility study would be next.
Ribeira de SĂŁo Jorge (Madeira Island) - mentioned by Miguel Albuquerque and former vice-president Miguel de Sousa as a future possibility, but not yet planned.
Expansion / Future Phase
Porto Santo Golfe expansion - public tender expected in November 2025 for an additional 9 holes, part of a development that could later evolve into a second 18-hole course.
What Jobs Do New Golf Courses Create?
Most of the employment created by new golf developments falls within the low-income range. These are the positions that keep the courses and clubhouses running day to day — essential roles, though often modestly paid.
Jobs include groundskeepers, gardeners, irrigation assistants, cleaning and security staff, caddies, and restaurant or kitchen workers serving guests and members.
Such positions usually have low entry requirements, making them accessible to local residents. However, the work is physically demanding and offers limited career progression, except through experience or internal promotion.
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