Porto Moniz Natural Pools - Porto Moniz
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Porto Moniz Natural Pools

4.7
·14k reviews·Porto Moniz, Portugal

Swim in natural volcanic pools carved by the Atlantic, offering a unique and refreshing experience with dramatic ocean views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May & September mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Porto Moniz Natural Pools - Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Best Time

May & September mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Swim in natural volcanic pools carved by the Atlantic, offering a unique and refreshing experience with dramatic ocean views.

4.7
(14k reviews)

"A little piece of paradise with crystal-clear seawater and dramatic volcanic rocks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥿 Bring Water Shoes

Concrete gets very hot! Essential for walking around the pools comfortably .

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online

Skip the lines by purchasing your admission in advance .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Volcanic Pools

The Main Volcanic Pools

Porto Moniz

Immerse yourself in crystal-clear seawater surrounded by dramatic volcanic rocks. A truly unique swimming experience.

Children's Swim Area

Children's Swim Area

Adjacent to main pools

A safe and shallow section perfect for younger visitors to splash and play in the seawater.

Ocean Views

Ocean Views

Along the pool edges

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the rugged coastline while you swim.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during shoulder seasons (May, September) for fewer crowds. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid the midday rush, especially during summer months when popularity soars.Reddit

Footwear & Essentials

The volcanic rock and concrete around the pools can get extremely hot under the sun, making water shoes or sturdy slippers a must-have.Reddit Consider bringing your own towel and snacks, as on-site rentals and purchases can add up.

Best Times

When
May & September mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden sunset views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Naturpool auf Teneriffa 🩵 #vacation #urlaub #islandlife #ocean #schwimmbad #bucketlist #traveltips #hiddengems
@lisa.wecker
250.4K likes • 3.5M views

🥿 Bring Water Shoes

Concrete gets very hot! Essential for walking around the pools comfortably.Reddit

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online

Skip the lines by purchasing your admission in advance.Reddit

reddit.com

Help us choose: A day near Porto Moniz/Seixal or Ponta de São Lourenço

reddit.com

Porto Moniz in Feb/March?

🌊 Watch for Waves

Ocean waves can wash into pools; be mindful with children.Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early

Secure a good spot before it gets too busy, especially in summer.Reddit

reddit.com

Absolute must see/do at Madeira

Tips

from all over the internet

🥿 Bring Water Shoes

Concrete gets very hot! Essential for walking around the pools comfortably.Reddit

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online

Skip the lines by purchasing your admission in advance.Reddit

🌊 Watch for Waves

Ocean waves can wash into pools; be mindful with children.Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early

Secure a good spot before it gets too busy, especially in summer.Reddit

💰 Parking Fee

Expect to pay around 2€ per hour for parking nearby.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(14k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Porto Moniz Natural Pools as a highlight of their Madeira trip, marveling at the unique volcanic rock formations and crystal-clear seawater. The refreshing swim experience, coupled with stunning ocean views, makes it a memorable destination. Some note that the pools can get crowded, and advise on wearing water shoes due to hot pathways.

"One of our highlights on our trip! We loved it here because it felt very secluded however there was plenty of space to sunbathe and plenty of rock pools to enjoy, it wasn’t too busy when we visited in May but as the summer rolls on, the popularity will increase as it is a popular stop on tours. The facilities are good with showers and toilets being clean and around the area there’s the old pools up the other end and there are a lot of shops such as a spar and a restaurant in the place. Once you go in you cannot leave without buying a new ticket so be aware of this."

Maya

"Nice place to stop by after a hot day. The pools are good with chill water. The ticket fee is only 3€ per person, recommend to buy it online before so you don’t have to wait in line. It can get pretty busy, parking is near by for 2€/h."

Tilen Puhar

"The natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz, Madeira, are a little piece of paradise. Crystal-clear seawater, dramatic volcanic rocks, and breathtaking views make this place a unique and refreshing experience.

That said, timing is everything. It’s definitely worth paying attention to when you go and making sure you’re well-prepared. One key tip: bring slippers or water shoes , the concrete around the pools gets very hot under the sun and can be painful to walk on barefoot.

If I could offer one suggestion to the management, it would be to consider implementing a reservation system or time slots. This would help control the number of visitors and ensure that everyone can fully enjoy the space without it getting too crowded, especially during peak times.

Parking, sunbeds, and space to relax shouldn’t be in short supply and with some organization, they aren’t. Overall, it’s an amazing experience and absolutely worth visiting. If you go prepared, you’re in for a real treat."

Carlos Miguel

What People Like

Unique volcanic pools
Refreshing seawater
Stunning ocean views

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Hot pathways

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is by car, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the ER101. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Funchal to Porto Moniz, though this will take longer. Many guided tours also include Porto Moniz as a stop.Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near the pools. It typically costs around 2€ per hour and can fill up, especially during peak season.Reddit

Yes, you can take a bus from Funchal to Porto Moniz. However, the journey can be quite long. Renting a car offers more flexibility and allows you to explore other scenic spots along the way.

The most scenic route is often via the coastal roads, offering stunning views. The ER101 is a direct and well-maintained road. Be prepared for winding roads typical of Madeira.

The facilities have been improved with slopes instead of steps in some areas, enhancing accessibility. However, the natural volcanic terrain can still present challenges in certain spots.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around 3€ per person. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing and consider buying tickets online to avoid queues.Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, they are open daily from morning until early evening. It's best to check the official website for exact times before your visit.Reddit

Once you exit, you typically cannot re-enter without purchasing a new ticket. Plan your visit accordingly.Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to save time and guarantee entry.Reddit

Information on discounts for children, seniors, or groups is usually available on their official website or at the ticket counter. It's worth inquiring when you arrive.

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

The water is seawater and can be quite cool, typically ranging from 17-20°C (63-68°F), depending on the season and ocean currents. It's refreshing, especially on a warm day.Reddit

You can often spot small fish, starfish, and crabs in the pools, adding an element of discovery to your swim.Reddit

Yes, lifeguards are usually on duty during opening hours to ensure visitor safety, especially with the incoming ocean waves.Reddit

Facilities include clean showers, changing rooms, lockers, and toilets. Sunbeds are also available for rent.Reddit

Yes, there's a dedicated children's swim area that is shallower and safer. However, always supervise children closely due to the natural environment.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots from the elevated walkways, the edges of the pools with waves crashing, and the surrounding volcanic rock formations. The sunset can also create magical golden hour photos.Reddit

Be cautious when photographing near the edges as waves can unexpectedly splash over. A waterproof phone case or camera is advisable for close-up shots of the waves.

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Sunset provides dramatic colors, turning the pools golden.Reddit

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.

Focus on the contrast between the dark volcanic rocks and the clear blue water, the power of the ocean waves, and the unique swimming experience. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scale.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are a fantastic destination for families. There's a dedicated children's swim area that is shallower and safer, allowing younger ones to enjoy the seawater experience without the risks of the deeper main pools.Reddit The presence of lifeguards also adds a layer of security for parents.Reddit

While the natural volcanic terrain is beautiful, remember to bring water shoes for everyone, as the pathways can get very hot. The facilities include changing rooms and showers, making it convenient for families. Consider packing some snacks and drinks, as on-site options might be limited or pricier. Visiting earlier in the day can help avoid the biggest crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools offer excellent value for money, with an admission fee typically around 3€ per person.Reddit This makes it an affordable yet spectacular experience. While parking has a fee (around 2€/hour), it's generally reasonable for the duration of your visit.Reddit

To save further, consider packing your own lunch and snacks. While there are shops and restaurants nearby, bringing your own can significantly cut down on expenses. Renting sunbeds is an option, but if you're on a tight budget, bringing a towel to lay on the volcanic rocks (though they can get hot!) is also feasible. The bus is a more economical way to reach Porto Moniz compared to renting a car, though it takes longer.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Volcanic Origins of Porto Moniz

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are a testament to Madeira's fiery geological past. Formed by volcanic lava flows that cooled upon meeting the Atlantic Ocean, these pools have been naturally sculpted over millennia. The dramatic black rocks that surround and form the pools are a constant reminder of this powerful geological process. This unique formation creates a sheltered environment within the open ocean, offering a safe and distinct swimming experience.

These natural swimming pools are not just a tourist attraction; they are a living part of the island's ecosystem. The seawater circulates freely, bringing in marine life and creating a dynamic environment. Visitors can often spot small fish, starfish, and crabs within the pools, adding an element of discovery to the swim. The contrast between the rugged, dark volcanic rock and the clear, inviting seawater is visually striking and a key part of the appeal.Reddit

While the natural beauty is paramount, the area has been developed to enhance visitor experience. Walkways, changing facilities, and a children's play area have been integrated thoughtfully, aiming to complement the natural landscape rather than overpower it. This blend of raw nature and accessible amenities makes the Porto Moniz Natural Pools a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique connection with Madeira's volcanic heritage.Reddit

Making the Most of Your Visit

To truly enjoy the Porto Moniz Natural Pools, preparation is key. As highlighted by many visitors, wearing water shoes or slippers is non-negotiable. The concrete pathways surrounding the pools can become scorching hot under the Madeiran sun, making barefoot walking uncomfortable, if not painful.Reddit Bringing your own towel and perhaps some snacks can also enhance comfort, though facilities for changing and showering are available on-site.

Timing your visit can significantly impact your experience. While the pools are popular year-round, visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, September) or on weekdays can mean fewer crowds. Arriving early in the morning is often recommended to secure a prime spot and enjoy the tranquility before the peak hours.Reddit If you visit during sunset, you're in for a treat as the entire pool area can turn a mesmerizing golden hue.Reddit

For those looking to capture the stunning scenery, the best photo opportunities are often found from the elevated walkways or the edges of the pools, especially when the Atlantic waves crash dramatically. Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination, while sunset provides a spectacular backdrop. Remember to be mindful of the incoming waves when taking photos near the water's edge.Reddit

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