Seixal beach and natural pools is a beautiful area on the north coast of Madeira that is perfect for swimming, exploring or relaxing. Here is a complete guide.
How To Get To Seixal Beach & Natural Pools
Located on the stunning north coast of Madeira, Seixal Beach and Natural Pools are just off the main VE2 road.
By Car:
It’s quite an easy 42 km (26 miles) drive from the capital of Madeira, Funchal, to the city of Seixal that takes about 45 minutes. Or if you are driving from Porto Moniz it is only 15 minutes along the VE2.
Once you get to Seixal you take the main road, Estrada de Setor Antao, towards the coast until you find a small road, Frente de Mar do Seixal, that takes you to Seixal Natural Pools.
There is some free parking half way along this road and more further down at the pools.
By Bus:
There are buses from Funchal that will take you to Seixal City, bus no’ 139 being a direct route. Once in the city you will have to walk down to the beach and pools.
Walking down the Frente de Mar do Seixal road you will see that there are steps leading down to the pools in various places.
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.
A little expensive, but guaranteed to take you to Seixal Beach and Natural Pools if you choose, the Madeira: 6-Hour Customized Experience is a private tour where you get to pick from the best destinations in Madeira!
Seixal Beach & Natural Pools Entrance Fee
It is free to visit.
Seixal Beach & Natural Pools Opening Times
Open every day, all year round.
Best Time To Visit Seixal Beach & Natural Pools + Tips
These natural pools would be best enjoyed on a beautiful warm day, although it can get busy on these days so get there early!
It’s also one of the best viewpoints in Madeira.
August and September are the hottest months of the year in Madeira. Although Madeira has a sub-tropical climate that offers sunshine throughout the year.
There is not a massive amount of parking space, so if driving, again, I would get there early in the day especially during peak season.
To get to the pools you have to climb down quite a lot of steps, which might be difficult for some visitors.
Don’t forget your snorkel!
What To Pack
What To Expect At Seixal Beach In Madeira
As you head down the main stairs you’re greeted by the beautiful black sand beach. Backed by rugged green cliffs with views of mountains beyond.
Unique to this part of the island, the lush green cliffs that drop away into the ocean are certainly impressive and could be why Madeira has sometimes been called ‘Europe’s Hawaii’.
This is a stunningly scenic spot and you should get some great photos here especially at sunset.
It can get busy in the day time so be prepared for a lot of locals and tourists. However there is plenty of space for everybody and it’s one of the top things to do in Madeira.
If you are staying in Funchal and prefer everything arranged for you the Private Transfer to Seixal Black Sand Beach is a good option.
Chill at the beach, get hot and then head through the cove down towards the natural pools.
Seixal Beach Natural Pools
Also known as Poca das Lesmas, Seixal natural pools are another series of naturally formed volcanic lava rock pools on the island of Madeira 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.
They are certainly one of the best natural pools in Madeira.
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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