Fort São João Baptista Porto Moniz
A historic fort on Madeira's coast, offering breathtaking ocean panoramas and housing the unique Madeira Aquarium.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views & fewer crowds
Fort São João Baptista Porto Moniz
Best Time
Best views & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic fort on Madeira's coast, offering breathtaking ocean panoramas and housing the unique Madeira Aquarium.
"It's straight out of a Google Windows screensaver with the ocean's divine color!"
Check the Weather ☀️
Waves can impact parking & access. Visit on calmer days for the best experience.
Parking Patience 🙏
Parking can be limited, especially with rough seas. Be prepared to search a bit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Views
Fort São João Baptista
Witness the ocean's divine colors and dramatic waves crashing against the fort. A truly breathtaking natural spectacle.
Porto Moniz Aquarium
Inside the fort
Discover marine life within this unique historical setting. A fascinating blend of history and nature.
Panoramic Photography
Fort ramparts
Capture postcard-perfect shots of the rugged coastline and the fort's strategic position. Ideal for nature and history enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Fort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather ☀️
Waves can impact parking & access. Visit on calmer days for the best experience.
Parking Patience 🙏
Parking can be limited, especially with rough seas. Be prepared to search a bit.
Photo Opportunities 📸
The fort offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for memorable photos.
Aquarium Inside 🐠
Don't miss the Madeira Aquarium located within the fort for a unique visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather ☀️
Waves can impact parking & access. Visit on calmer days for the best experience.
Parking Patience 🙏
Parking can be limited, especially with rough seas. Be prepared to search a bit.
Photo Opportunities 📸
The fort offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for memorable photos.
Aquarium Inside 🐠
Don't miss the Madeira Aquarium located within the fort for a unique visit.
Combine with Pools 🏊
Explore the famous Porto Moniz natural swimming pools nearby after your fort visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the 'divine' ocean colors and the 'beautiful piece of nature' surrounding Fort São João Baptista, often comparing it to a screensaver. The fort's historical charm and the unique setting for the Madeira Aquarium are also highly praised. However, limited parking and unpredictable wave conditions can sometimes pose challenges.
"We went there yesterday and it was wonderful. The parking lots were limited because of the weather warning and the waves that came over but with a bit of luck we found a free one and went to see this beautiful pice of nature.
U could say it’s straight out of a google windows screensaver."
Tabea O
"In this place, the ocean has a divine color. Highly recommended."
Flawox Hokage
"Interesting historical building, contains the aquarium of Porto Moniz."
Frank Hübner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fort is located in Porto Moniz, on the northwest coast of Madeira. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby, though it can be limited. Public transport options might be available but are less frequent.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times or when the sea is rough, as waves might affect access. It's advisable to arrive early or be patient.
Driving is the most convenient way, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via scenic routes. Buses are also an option, but the journey is longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the fort grounds for viewing the exterior and the panoramic views is generally free. However, there might be a fee for accessing the Madeira Aquarium located inside.
The fort itself is an historical structure, and its exterior can be viewed at any time. The Madeira Aquarium within the fort has specific operating hours, which are best checked in advance.
Yes, the Madeira Aquarium, housed within the fort, typically has an admission fee. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The ramparts of the fort offer incredible panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. Capturing the fort with the dramatic waves is also a popular choice.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and vibrant colors. Consider the weather for dramatic wave shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area to avoid fines.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historical structure, enjoy stunning ocean panoramas, and visit the Madeira Aquarium located inside. It's a great spot for photos and appreciating nature.
A visit to the fort itself, for the views and exterior, can take about 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to visit the aquarium, add an extra hour or more.
The exterior grounds might have some uneven surfaces. Access to certain parts of the fort and the aquarium may be limited for those with significant mobility challenges.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Day-Trippers from Funchal
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fort's History and Significance
Visitors often remark on the fort's picturesque setting, comparing it to a screensaver-worthy landscape. The dramatic interplay of the ocean waves against the ancient stone walls creates a powerful visual. While the fort itself might not offer extensive historical exhibits, its presence and the surrounding natural beauty are its main draws. It's a place where history meets the raw power of nature, offering a unique experience for those who appreciate both.
The fort's strategic position also means it's often subject to the full force of the Atlantic. This can lead to spectacular wave displays, but also means that access and parking can be affected by weather conditions. Travelers are advised to check the weather forecast and sea conditions before planning their visit to ensure the best possible experience.
Experiencing the Madeira Aquarium
The combination of historical architecture and marine exhibits makes the aquarium a distinctive attraction. It's a chance to learn about the biodiversity of the Atlantic surrounding Madeira while exploring a piece of its history. The fort's strategic location, facing the open ocean, adds to the immersive experience, connecting the exhibits directly to their natural environment.
While the fort itself provides stunning natural views, the aquarium adds another layer of discovery. It's a perfect complement to exploring the fort's exterior and enjoying the coastal scenery. Remember to check the aquarium's specific opening hours and admission fees before your visit, as these can differ from the fort's general access.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit