The small, well-kept spa town of Porto Moniz, situated on the very north-western tip of Madeira, attracts visitors not only for its attractive location with magnificent views of the steep mountain slopes.

The main attraction in Porto Moniz is the seawater spa pools built on the rugged coastline amongst natural lava pools. There are natural pools in two locations right in Porto Moniz.

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Natural pools

The first of these is the landscaped swimming pool at theAqua Natura Madeira hotel.

The pool has depths suitable for very young children as well as depths of over 2 metres for swimmers.

The pool measures approximately 80 by 20 metres and is accessed via concrete steps.

The complex is open all year round to the public from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, and until 7.00 pm in summer. Admission costs 1,50 eur. Changing rooms and showers are also available.

Even more beautiful is the area of truly natural pools near the Chacalote restaurant, where you can swim right amongst the lava rocks. There are just concrete walls to protect against larger waves and footpaths for easy access to the water. Although you have to go through the restaurant to get there, entry is free.

The water is relatively cold all year round, with temperatures ranging between 18 and 21 °C regardless of the season. 

A lovely seaside promenade runs between the two pools, lined with numerous restaurants and bars.

Accommodation in Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz is the largest town in north-western Madeira and serves as a good base for exploring the surrounding area. Although accommodation here is slightly more expensive than in Funchal, it is still quite cheap by Western European standards.

On average, you’ll pay around 50 eur per night during the peak season.

• Accommodation in Porto Moniz
• Our tips – Costa Azul, Recantos do Castanheiro - Palheiro, Hotel Euro Moniz 3*, Aqua Natura Madeira 4*

Getting to Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz is situated about 50 km from Funchal, and the quickest way to get there by car is through the tunnel in the centre of Madeira. Parking is charged at spaces marked with a blue line (0,80 eur per hour, 4 eur for 5 hours). All spaces marked with white lines are free of charge.

Bus services in this part of Madeira are operated by Rodoeste.

There are 2–3 daily services to Funchal via the fast route through the tunnel via São Vicente (approx. 2 hours and 10 minutes) and 2–3 daily services via the slower 3.5-hour coastal route via the towns of Calheta and Ponta do Sol. You can buy tickets from the driver; the fare to Funchal is 6 eur.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Madeira.