Caniço is a town and civil parish in the municipality of Santa Cruz, on the south coast of Madeira, a few kilometres east of Funchal. It is the most populated parish in that municipality and its built-up area runs almost continuously on from Funchal. It takes in the coastal strip of Caniço de Baixo and Garajau, above the marine reserve.
The area
Most of the buildings here are modern: apartment blocks, gated developments and resorts facing the sea. A large share of the flats serve as second homes or short-term rentals, often with owners living off the island. That produces continuous demand for cleaning, assembly, key-holder access and small repairs between stays.
What people look for here
- Changeover cleaning in holiday apartments
- Furniture assembly in newly finished flats
- Pool and communal area maintenance
- Repairing shutters and frames near the sea
- Air conditioning installation in apartments
- Small repairs with key handover arranged
Parishes and neighbourhoods
Caniço (town centre)Caniço de BaixoGarajauAssomadaVargem
Most requested services
ElectricianPlumberHandyman / hourlyHome cleaningFurniture assemblyGardeningPaintingMoving serviceAir conditioningAppliance repairBabysitter / nannyTutoring
Other municipalities
FunchalCâmara de LobosMachicoSanta CruzSantanaRibeira BravaPonta do SolCalhetaSão VicentePorto Moniz
Frequently asked questions
Is Caniço its own municipality?
No. Caniço is a town and civil parish belonging to the municipality of Santa Cruz, even though it is larger than the town of Santa Cruz itself. In practice, when looking for a professional it is clearer to say Caniço, Caniço de Baixo or Garajau, since that is how local professionals divide up their areas.
Many residents here do not speak Portuguese. Is that a problem?
Caniço has a large foreign resident community and many professionals are used to it. Write in chat in whichever language you are comfortable with, and check first that the other person understands it. Photos and measurements prevent misunderstandings better than any long explanation.
How do I agree a price if I am off the island?
Set out the job in writing, send photos and agree the amount in chat before the professional travels. Payment goes directly between you and them, on the terms you settle. Ask for photos of the finished work if you cannot be there.