Piscinas Naturais de Porto Moniz

The natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz are one of Madeira’s best-known places for a swim – and the setting is definitely special. Formed among black volcanic rocks and filled naturally with Atlantic seawater, the pools let you swim right next to the ocean while being protected from the open sea. There are actually two different options in Porto Moniz. The main paid complex has large swimming areas, easy access to the water, changing facilities, showers and lifeguards. A little further along the seafront, you’ll find the older natural pools, which are free to access and feel much more rugged, with volcanic rocks surrounding the smaller swimming areas and fewer facilities. Porto Moniz is a very popular stop on Madeira, so don’t expect to have the pools to yourself. Especially around midday and during the summer, the main complex can get busy. If you can, we’d recommend coming earlier in the morning, when the atmosphere is usually a little calmer. Conditions also depend heavily on the Atlantic. On days with strong waves or rough seas, parts of the pools – or the entire complex – can be closed for safety reasons, so it’s worth checking the conditions before making a special trip. On a calm, sunny day, swimming between the dark volcanic rocks with the Atlantic right beside you is a pretty unique Madeira experience. And even if you don’t want to swim, Porto Moniz is worth combining with other stops along the spectacular north-west coast.