Seixal Natural Pools
Seixal Natural Pools: Madeira's dramatic volcanic rock pools meet a striking black sand beach for a truly unique coastal escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safest swimming, fewer crowds
Seixal Natural Pools
Best Time
Safest swimming, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seixal Natural Pools: Madeira's dramatic volcanic rock pools meet a striking black sand beach for a truly unique coastal escape.
"A truly authentic and breathtaking natural swimming experience on Madeira's stunning north coast."
Check Tide Times First! :world_map:
Visit during low tide for safer swimming and to see the pools at their best. Waves can make it dangerous at high tide.
Water Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:
The volcanic rocks can be slippery. Water shoes provide better grip and comfort for exploring the pools.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seixal Natural Pools
North coast of Madeira
Stunning volcanic rock pools with crystal-clear water, set against a dramatic black sand beach.
Seixal Black Sand Beach
Adjacent to the pools
A unique and picturesque black sand beach offering a striking contrast to the turquoise waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Seixal's Pools
Embrace the Natural Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :world_map:
Visit during low tide for safer swimming and to see the pools at their best. Waves can make it dangerous at high tide.
Water Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:
The volcanic rocks can be slippery. Water shoes provide better grip and comfort for exploring the pools.
Arrive Early or Late :clock1:
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits.
Authentic Experience :star2:
Enjoy the natural, less commercialized vibe compared to Porto Moniz. It's a truly unique spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :world_map:
Visit during low tide for safer swimming and to see the pools at their best. Waves can make it dangerous at high tide.
Water Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:
The volcanic rocks can be slippery. Water shoes provide better grip and comfort for exploring the pools.
Arrive Early or Late :clock1:
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits.
Authentic Experience :star2:
Enjoy the natural, less commercialized vibe compared to Porto Moniz. It's a truly unique spot.
Pack Snacks & Drinks :ice_cream:
While there's a bar, bringing your own refreshments is a good idea, especially if you plan to relax on the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and authentic feel of Seixal Natural Pools, often preferring it to more commercialized options. The unique black sand beach and volcanic rock formations are major draws. However, the water can be quite cold, and visitors should be mindful of tide times for safety and optimal enjoyment. Some find the facilities basic and the parking challenging during peak times.
"We came here as our last stop on an all day jeep tour of the island while on a cruise. We came in mid-April and the water was quite cold, about 18C / 64F, but some people like me were braving the cold for a few minutes in order to swim and hopefully get some health benefits! Very picturesque area and safe to swim here because it is naturally protected from the ocean."
Eileen Weed
"Free parking after 11am is very challenging. The pools have parking for 4€, and the entrance to the pools is 2.5€ per person.
We went there in the morning and there were already lots of people there, the tide was full so with the waves the pools can become a bit dangerous specially for small children. Rubber shoes are highly recommended for a better experience.
For better enjoyment come at low tide and on a sunny day. They have a bar there that serve drinks and food."
Joana Batista
"What a cool place!!!! We visited both the rock pools in Seixal and Porto Moniz and they are equally lovely. There's not much space to lie down and for sun bathing there's the rock cliff causing a lot of shade, but the pools are great and as a bonus you can see crabs and fish that get washed in with the waves."
Felix Heymann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The best way to reach Seixal Natural Pools is by renting a car, offering flexibility to explore Madeira. The drive from Funchal takes approximately 1 hour. Public buses are also an option, but schedules can be infrequent. +1
Yes, there is parking available. It costs around 4€, but free parking can be found after 11 am, though it can be challenging to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Many full-day jeep tours of Madeira include a stop at Seixal, offering a convenient way to see it alongside other attractions.
From Funchal, take the VE1 highway towards the north coast, then follow signs for Seixal. The scenic drive offers beautiful island views.
The pools are located near the black sand beach and are generally accessible, though some rocky areas might require careful footing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee of 2.50€ per person. This fee helps maintain the facilities.
Some visitors mention a 1€ discount at the bar with the entrance ticket, making it a good deal if you plan to grab a drink.
The pools are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check local conditions or ask at your accommodation for the most up-to-date information.
While the beach itself is free to access, there is a fee to enter and use the designated natural swimming pools.
There are no explicit time limits mentioned, but it's advisable to be mindful of closing times for facilities like changing rooms and the bar.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The pools are naturally protected from the open ocean, making them safer for swimming than the beach itself. However, always check tide conditions and heed lifeguard warnings.
The water can be quite cold, around 18°C (64°F) even in April. Some brave visitors still enjoy a dip for the experience and potential health benefits.
Yes, there are toilets and changing rooms available for visitors.
There is a small bar on-site that serves drinks and some food, offering a convenient option for refreshments.
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and perhaps snacks and drinks. A camera is a must for the stunning scenery!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic contrast of the black sand beach against the turquoise water. The volcanic rock formations and the surrounding cliffs offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos. Midday sun can be harsh, but still offers dramatic contrast.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check current local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
Yes, the black sand beach is incredibly photogenic. Try to capture the waves crashing on the shore for dynamic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventurous Road Trippers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Seixal's Volcanic Pools
When visiting, it's crucial to be aware of the tides. At high tide, the powerful ocean waves can surge into the pools, making them unsafe for swimming and potentially dangerous, especially for children.
Experiencing Seixal Beach and Beyond
While Seixal is a highlight, it's often visited as part of a larger exploration of Madeira's north coast. Many travelers combine a visit to the Seixal Natural Pools with stops at nearby attractions like Porto Moniz, known for its larger, more developed natural swimming pools.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit