Porto Moniz Natural Pools are beautiful, naturally formed lava rock swimming pools that fill with Atlantic sea water. Here’s a complete guide.
How To Get To Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Located on the far north west of the island, Porto Moniz Natural Pools are in the town of Porto Moniz.
By Car:
It’s approximately 50km (31 miles) from the capital city of Funchal to Porto Moniz Natural Pools and takes about 50 minutes to drive there.
There is parking in Porto Moniz near to the pools. Most of the parking is paid and there are parking machines that take card/coins nearby.
By Bus:
There is a bus service from Funchal to Porto Moniz once a day. The journey takes over 3 hours on weekdays and slightly less on weekends due to fewer stops.
By Tour:
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
One such tour that is highly recommended is From Funchal: Best of Madeira’s West Tour which is a day trip visiting all the best spots on the west side of the island including the Porto Moniz Natural Pools.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools Entrance Fee
Entrance fee is €3 per person.
Children under 3 years free.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools Opening Times
Summer opening hours: 9am – 7pm
Winter opening hours: 9am – 5pm
Best Time To Visit Porto Moniz Natural Pools + Tips
These natural pools would be best enjoyed on a beautiful sunny day, although they are a popular attraction with locals and tourists alike, so are often pretty busy on nice days.
Therefore, I would recommend getting there early to grab a spot to put your towel down or alternatively, if you visit later in the day it is often quieter.
August and September are the hottest months of the year in Madeira, so if you are a sun worshipper you will love visiting the Natural Pools during that time.
Although, for those that don’t like it too hot, Madeira has a sub-tropical climate that offers sunshine throughout the whole year.
Don’t forget your snorkel!
What To Pack
What To Expect At Porto Moniz Natural Pools
The natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz are the most famous volcanic pools on the island.
Made up of Atlantic sea water sitting in volcanic lava rock formations, all with beautiful surroundings. There’s a reason they are one of the top 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.
Platforms and steps have also been added around the complex for visitors to be able to enjoy the different areas of this naturally created complex.
This is sea-swimming with all the fun that that brings but in a really safe and controlled environment.
There is also the added benefit of lifeguards being on duty all day at Porto Moniz pools.
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.
Be Careful
Also, don’t forget these pools are filled by the tide, so there is plenty of sea life to swim with including fishes, shellfish, urchins and seaweed. Great for snorkelling enthusiasts!
The various pools differ in depth so you need to be mindful of this. However, there is a children’s pool and playground if you have little ones with you.
There are showers and changing rooms available. Also, you can hire sun beds and parasols for €5 each as well as lockers.
In addition there are plenty of snack bars/restaurants for you to get refreshments during the day.
With their lovely relaxed vibe and beautiful setting, Porto Moniz Natural Pools are definitely worth visiting, especially if you have children.
Not only are they one of the top natural pools in Madeira, but they are great for the family.
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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