The upper-middle-range, 198-room Porto Mare features a plethora of on-site facilities and dining options, as it sits in the center of the Vila Porto Mare resort complex. The hotel is close to Lido Promenade and free shuttles run into Funchal's old town multiple times a day, but the closest beach is roughly a 30-minute walk away. Though there are ample restaurants and shops nearby, guests may be content to stay at the hotel, as there are an array of pools -- both indoors and outdoors -- a kids' club, and sports facilities. Earth-tone rooms have flat-screen TVs, docking stations, and mini-fridges, while suites add kitchenettes. Some areas are looking a bit dated, but overall, it provides a solid stay for couples and families. Couples may prefer the more modern and stylish Pestana Promenade Ocean Resort Hotel.

The adult-only Porto Santa Maria Hotel is a three-and-a-half-pearl property popular for its amazing beachside location in the heart of Funchal's old town. There's plenty to do nearby: Some of the island's best restaurants are within walking distance, along with cultural and tourist attractions such as the marina and the famous Mercado dos Lavradores. On-site, there are an outdoor pool, rooftop terrance with a whirlpool, spa with indoor pool and treatment rooms, and a generally well-reviewed restaurant. The 146 rooms are comfortable, albeit with some dated furnishings, and equipped with kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, and outdoor spaces -- some with sea views. It's worth comparing rates with Pestana Palms Ocean Aparthotel, which has a few more features, including an on-site diving school.

Hotel Baia Azul is a four-pearl property located a 10-minute walk outside the center of Funchal. While the hotel has always had a fabulous, walkable waterside location directly on the promenade, it didn't reach its full potential until undergoing a complete makeover and reopening in 2016. Now, the 218-room resort is a gorgeous, bright property with top style to boot. Expect spacious and modern rooms with mini-fridges, kettles, glass showers, and balconies with views. Features include an indoor and outdoor pool, small gym, restaurant with good breakfast buffet and terrace seating, well-priced bar, and spa options, but be prepared to pay extra for the safe inside your room and fresh towels. The beachfront here is pebbled, so if you are looking for sand, check out the nearby Golden Residence Apartment Hotel in the same price point.

One of the best-positioned properties on Madeira, the upscale, 76-room Pestana Palms Ocean Aparthotel is located along the water and a 20-minute walk from Funchal's center. It boasts private, direct access to the sea from the large pool area, as well as an on-site dive center. A spa, sauna, whirlpool, and full gym with a sea view add to the property's relaxation factor. The generously sized rooms are admittedly aging -- think brown striped carpet, honey-toned wood furniture, and plaid throws on the bed. However, many offer sea-view balconies and all have basic kitchenettes. The two restaurants and bars receive positive reviews, and meal plans are available. Note, however, that in-room safes and umbrellas by the pool require fees. Travelers looking for a bit more modern property may prefer the Melia Madeira Mare Resort & Spa.

The three-pearl Orca Praia Hotel cuts a dramatic figure, seemingly hewn out of the cliffside that tumbles down to a beach with black volcanic sand. Inside, the 124 long and narrow rooms -- which get wider the farther down you go -- have large, furnished terraces looking out over the bay, but no air-conditioning or fridges. A steep sloping path passes through a garden dense with desert plants and leads to the beachfront pool, however, the incline may be difficult for those with mobility issues. A spa offers massages, a hydrotherapy tub, and steam room, while the restaurant serves local and international cuisine. There's not a ton in the immediate surrounding, so travelers looking to be closer to town might want to consider Enotel Lido Madeira.

The Pestana Bay Ocean Aparthotel is an mid-range all-inclusive property set right on a popular stretch of Praia Formosa. Although not strictly apartments, all 217 rooms have kitchenettes and balconies, most with superb sea views. The decor is bold, but dated. Complaints typically focus on the very crowded buffet restaurant, though the hotel provides surprising extras like cocktail hours and free shuttles into Funchal. Pool and spa facilities are adequate, with plentiful loungers and a poolside whirlpool tub. There's also a grassy playground and a game room. Self-catering apartments with better child-friendly facilities (including a kids' pool, club, and entertainment) can be found at the Suite Hotel Eden Mar, where rates tend to be lower.