Madeira is famous for its beautiful natural pools, formed from ancient volcanic rocks. Here’s a guide to the 4 best Natural Pools in Madeira.
1. Seixal Natural Pools
Located on the stunning north coast of Madeira, Seixal Beach & Natural Pools are a series of naturally formed volcanic lava rock pools that will take your breath away.
With beautiful pools to swim in, caves to explore and rock pools to delve into this is a great place to visit and spend some time.
Don’t forget these pools are filled by natural sea water from the Atlantic Ocean. So you will be swimming alongside plenty of sea life. Great for snorkelling enthusiasts!
There are toilets, changing rooms, a cafe/bar and pathways and stairs throughout the area to make accessing the pools easier.
A main feature of Seixal natural pools is a stunning, giant arch created naturally from lava rock that you can swim under and which also makes for a great photo opportunity.
Seixal pools has to be on the list of best natural pools in Madeira!
2. Doca Do Cavacas Natural Pools
Doca do Cavacas natural pools complex is located on the south west coast of Funchal and has to be included as one of the best natural pools in Madeira.
The swimming areas are divided into 3 separate pools, with some parts being quite shallow and others pretty deep, so you need to take care.
However, the swimming area does benefit from lifeguard monitoring. There are also changing rooms and showers as well as bars and restaurants nearby.
Platforms and steps have been added around the complex for visitors to be able to enjoy the different areas of this naturally created complex.
In addition there is plenty of sea life to see in these natural pools, including fishes, shellfish, urchins and seaweed.
This naturally formed swimming area is very beautiful and has a unique charm. I would definitely recommend spending some time here.
3. Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Located on the far north west of the island, the famous Porto Moniz Natural Pools are in the town of Porto Moniz.
They’re also rated as one of the best things to do in Madeira.
The Pools stretch over quite a large area which is kept clean and well maintained. Furthermore, the rocks have been smoothed and shallow areas created to ensure a safe swimming environment.
You will find stairs and platforms to help you access all the different areas, as well as a children’s pool and playground if you have little ones with you. There are also lifeguards on duty all day.
When swimming in the pools you can enjoy the beautiful panoramic views out over the rugged cliffs and coast, as well as watch the Atlantic waves crashing out in the ocean.
There are showers and changing rooms available as well as plenty of snack bars and restaurants. Also, you can hire sun beds, parasols and lockers for €5 each.
With their lovely relaxed vibe and beautiful setting, Porto Moniz Natural Pools are definitely one of the best natural pools in Madeira, especially if you have children.
4. Piscinas Naturais Velhas
Also located on the far north west of the island in the town of Porto Moniz are the Piscinas Naturais Velhas.
These natural pools are much less man-managed than the Porto Moniz Natural Pools and are also free to visit.
However, there are no facilities (apart from a shower) for changing or places to eat and more importantly no lifeguards. So it’s probably a good idea to only swim here when there are other people about.
There are 2 different pools with varying depths of water that are quite protected from the sea, with steps to get in and out. In addition, there is plenty of different marine life to discover ,making this an ideal spot for some snorkelling.
So if you enjoy something less commercial and a more natural swimming experience then this beautiful spot is definitely the place for you. It definitely had to be on the list of best natural pools in Madeira!
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide. These tours are available to book in advance and include visits to the natural pools.
Where To Stay In Madeira
Luxury – The Vine Hotel
Recently awarded as Europe’s Leading Design Hotel, the luxurious Vine Hotel is located in Funchal.
It offers a fusion restaurant with stunning views, a Wine Therapy Spa, access to the fitness centre and a rooftop infinity pool.
Each room features an LCD TV with in-room movies, free WiFi and a laptop-size safe.
The roof terrace sports a heated infinity pool, massage facilities as well as a 20 yard hot tub, with views of Fort São João and the mountains.
Mid-Budget – Hotel Baia Azul
The newly renovated 4-star Hotel Baía Azul is ideally situated a 4-minute walk from Funchal’s beachfront.
It offers 3 swimming pools, 3 restaurants, a Spa and a sun deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the gardens.
The hotel has a total of 215 bedrooms with sea-inspired decor. All rooms come with an en suite bathroom, bath amenities and a hairdryer.
Not only that, but a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar, a kettle and a safe deposit box too.
Free WiFi access is provided in all rooms and common areas.
Budget – Funchal Apartments – City View
Funchal Apartments – City View is venue is set in Se district, around a 10 minute walk from Funchal center, and features a terrace with the cathedral view.
The property includes free WiFi, plus express check-in and check-out.
There is also a shared kitchen, ATM and currency exchange for guests.
All rooms include a wardrobe, a desk and a shared bathroom.
For more places to stay in Madeira, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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