Caniçal is a small fishing village, where the main catch is tuna. The name Caniçal originates from the abundance of reeds (Caniço) that grew in the more arid areas of the parish. These reeds were initially used as fishing rods, demonstrating the importance of the activity from the very beginning of the settlement.

The Whale Museum serves as a testament to the cultural and socioeconomic roots of Caniçal and invites you to explore the historical and natural importance of Whales.

Today, Caniçal is a regional and national reference in respects to tuna fishing. Tuna is a gastronomic symbol on the Island. Caniçal is home to some of the largest shipowners on the Island who export large quantities all over the world including to Australia, China, Japan and Venezuela (where there are large communities of Madeiran emigrants).

Ponta de São Lourenço is undoubtedly the biggest tourist attraction in the parish and one of the most popular places to visit on the Island. Most visitors make PR8 part of their plans and are taken aback by the unique landscape and geological beauty.

The Madeira Free Trade Zone, located in Caniçal is managed by Sociedade de Desenvolvimento da Madeira which is also responsible for the International Shipping Register - MAR and the International Services. The Madeira Free Trade Zone is a unique instrument in economic development, with its own tax benefit regime which has contributed to the economic growth of the Island by attracting investment and foreign capital.