• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to footer

ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

  • FRANCE
    • CORSICA
    • NORMANDY
    • PARIS
  • EUROPE
    • ANDALUCIA
    • CANARY ISLANDS
    • CRETE
    • ICELAND
    • ICELAND WINTER
    • MADEIRA
    • MALLORCA
    • PORTUGAL
    • SANTORINI
    • SCOTLAND
    • SLOVENIA
  • REST OF WORLD
    • NEW ZEALAND
    • OMAN
  • TIPS
  • EBOOKS
  • SHOP
  • ABOUT

Porto Moniz (Madeira) – Visit tips + photos + things to do

Last updated on July 11, 2022 By Claire, the Travel Planning Geek

Let's discover the best things to do in Porto Moniz, Madeira.
The most-Western town of the island is famous for its natural pools (a great experience!) but will offer you more.
Below is my guide to help you plan your visit with tips, photos and map.

Things to do in Porto Moniz Madeira natural pools Pin

Table of Contents
Why visit Porto Moniz in Madeira?
Planning Tips - Porto Moniz, Madeira
The Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Other things to do in Porto Moniz
Things to do around Porto Moniz
Activities around Porto Moniz

This article contains affiliate links (Disclosure page). If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you.


Why visit Porto Moniz in Madeira?

Porto Moniz is considered one of the top attractions on the island of Madeira.
Many people stop here during a day tour.
This is because of the natural pools created by volcanic rocks. Just have a look:

visit Porto Moniz in Madeira

Porto Moniz Natural Pools

But Porto Moniz is also a charming town that was isolated for a long time.
It offers steep mountains, beautiful plantations, a fort and a laid-back atmosphere. I will share it all further in this article.

About the name & short history

Porto Moniz is named after one of the first settlers on Madeira: Francisco Moniz O Velho. He was an aristocrat from the Algarve region.
Porto means port.
Because of the geography of the island, Porto Moniz was isolated from the rest of the island for a long time. It was a whaling town until the 1980s.
Today the population of the town is around 1700.

More photos after the planning tips.


Planning Tips - Porto Moniz, Madeira

How to get to Porto Moniz

  • Located on the North-West tip of Madeira island
  • Nowadays, it is easy to access with the tunnels
  • Funchal to Porto Moniz = 1h drive
  • Sao Vicente to Porto Moniz = 20min drive
  • Below is a map to locate it and get oriented:
Porto Moniz Madeira Map

This highlight (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) is included in my travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Madeira trip:

Plan your perfect trip around Madeira!

small Madeira ebook cover
  • 7 easy-to-plan Maps
  • 120+ pre-selected scenic locations
  • Planning tips to make the most of your time
  • 260+ large photos to decide where to go
  • GPS coordinates direct to the carparks

LEARN MORE

Tours & bus - no car

  • Public transportation is available between Funchal and Porto Moniz - however busses are not frequent and slow, with many stops. Bus 80 and Bus 139
  • Otherwise there are many group tours from Funchal, touring the Western part of the island, that include Porto Moniz and its famous pools - see options - you will get a snapshot of Porto Moniz but not enough time to really appreciate it. I recommend renting a car.

Visit Tips 

  • There is a large carpark close to the seafront. It gets full during the day as day trippers arrive.
  • Easy to drive in town
  • Many restaurants and snack bars - one of the most famous is O Cachalote with seafood
  • 2 complexes of natural pools - one free without lifeguards, one for a fee with lifeguards - more details in the next section
  • Visit early or late to avoid the crowds
Porto Moniz carpark

Porto Moniz carpark

Need to rent a car in Madeira?
My tips:

  • Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com - one of the best customer-rated comparison sites!
  • Choose the car and company you prefer (with enough power for steep roads)
  • Consider their full coverage option - I always take it for peace of mind! 
  • Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See my 36 tips about renting a car in Madeira

Where to stay in Porto Moniz

I recommend spending one night here to enjoy the pools when the day trippers have left the town. It is much more peaceful and enjoyable.
Below are some accommodation suggestions:

  • 4 STAR HOTEL - Aqua Natura Madeira, right by some of the natural pools - Check out photos and availability
  • LARGE VILLA - Porto Moniz Villa, close to the waterfront - Check out photos and availability
  • RENTAL HOUSE - Refúgio do Ilhéu, on higher grounds - Check out photos and availability
  • APARTMENT - Sea View Apartment, with large terrace - Check out pictures and availability
  • or See best rated accommodations in Porto Moniz

More tips on my article about where to stay in Madeira

view from hotel in Porto Moniz

view from hotel in Porto Moniz


The Porto Moniz Natural Pools

As I wrote earlier, the natural pools are the main attractions of Porto Moniz. There are 2 complexes:

  • Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz - a lido complex, safer for swimming
  • Piscinas Naturais do Aquario / Valhas / Cachalote - the more photogenic and less transformed pools 

Let's discover both!

Piscinas Naturais do Aquario / Valhas / Cachalote

Starting with my favorites, the free Porto Moniz lava pools:

Porto Moniz photography Lava

There is no official sign with the official name.
The town's website calls them the Aquarium Natural Swimming Pools, as well as the Cachalote ones, with the name of the nearby Cachalote restaurant.

Why I love them?

  • Because there are more volcanic rocks
  • Because they is less construction around them
  • Because they are near the islet Ilheu Mole
  • Because they are very photogenic
  • Because they have long and deep pools which are great for swimming.
  • ...
Porto Moniz natural pools volcanic

Practical Info

  • Free access (can be closed in case of dangerous waves)
  • Walking paths all around to access various easier entrances into the water - or just to find different angles for pictures
  • No facilities
  • Restaurant and café nearby
  • No lifeguards
  • Good depth
  • Edges have not been smoothed, so be careful where you put your feet
Porto Moniz natural pools lava

And, as you are swimming in the sea water, there are great views all around: 

  • Towards the island
  • Towards the green hills
  • Towards the fort
  • ...
Porto Moniz natural pools free

Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz

When talking about the natural pools, this is often the ones that are mentioned.
They are less natural. The area has been transformed into a lido complex, which is great if you have kids.

  • The rocks are not sharp
  • There are shallower pools
  • Large area for sunbathing
  • The average annual water temperature is between 20 and 21º C.

However, the lava rocks are less impressive. And they are a lot less photogenic!

Porto Moniz Piscinas Naturais

Practical Info

  • Lifeguards on duty
  • Access for a small fee (1.50 euros)
  • Open 9am to 7pm in Summer (to 5pm in Winter)
  • Restaurants right next to it.
  • Changing rooms and toilets
  • Sun loungers and parasols for hire
Porto Moniz volcanic pools Madeira

Other things to do in Porto Moniz

If you have time in the town, know that there are a few other things worth looking at in the town, apart from the pools...

Admire Ilheu Mole and its lighthouse - the Porto Moniz island

Ilheu Mole

Ilheu Mole, Porto Moniz

I was fascinated by the small island right by the coast of Porto Moniz.
I walked all along the seafront and to the port, to admire it from all angles possible.
It is a lava dome that has partially fallen into the sea because of erosion.
At the top is a lighthouse (Farol do Porto Moniz) - it is a 3m high tower at an altitude of 62m (203ft) above sea level
The island is not accessible to the public.

João Baptista Fort

João Baptista Fort

João Baptista Fort

The other unmissable attraction of Porto Moniz is the fort.
Located right next to the pools, you cannot miss it!

It is a replica of the ancient fort from 1730, that was built to protect against pirate attacks.
In 1998, the town bought the ruins and "restored" it; They kept as much a possible of the ruins and used local basalt stones.
Inside, on the lower part, is the aquarium, our next stop. You can also go to the upper part, but there is not much to see, except imagining you standing guard, looking for pirates.

João Baptista Fort Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz Aquarium - Aquario da Madeira

Porto Moniz Aquarium

Porto Moniz Aquarium

Inside the fort, you can find the Porto Moniz aquarium.
It opened in 2005 and its objective is the preserve the marine biodiversity of the Madeira Archipelago.
It is home to more than 90 native species in 12 tanks including small sharks and rays.

  • Price: 7€
  • Opening hours - 10am to 6pm

Reviews about it are mixed. And I agree. 
The tanks are nice and you can clearly see a lot of species quite up-close.
However, there are only 12 tanks for 7€. The visit is not long... it took me 30minutes (really taking my time).

Note: it is possible to book a diving baptism inside the bigger tank .

Man-made Waterfall

Man-made Waterfall

To the back of the fort, you will find a strange waterfall wall feature. No explanation given.
It is a nice place to sit, relax and look at the island, away from the crowds. 

The Porto Moniz port and views of Ribeira Janela

The Porto Moniz port and views of Ribeira Janela

Still behind the fort, you will find the small port and enjoy open views of the North Shore of Madeira.
Not far, you can see the sea stacks of Ribeira Janela.

Miradouro da Santinha - view of Porto Moniz

Miradouro da Santinha - view of Porto Moniz

Miradouro da Santinha - view of Porto Moniz

If you want to have an overall view of the town, you can drive up to Miradouro da Santinha. 
This is a great viewpoint, an easy stop on the sinuous road to explore the West coast of the island.
There are several parking places.
From here, you can enjoy the town, the island, the cliffs and plantations.

Miradouro da Santinha

Centro Cienca Viva

There is also a multipurpose exhibition building.
The permanent exhibition is about the Laurissilva Unesco World Heritage forest.
Mostly display panels. No artefacts. Not a science museum.
3.50€
Monday to Sunday - 10am to 6pm 

Miradouro do Cabo Calhau - Porto Moniz Beach

Miradouro do Cabo Calhau - Porto Moniz Beachu

To the South West of town, you can find another viewpoint. It looks towards a small pebble beach. 

Plantations & wineries

Porto Moniz plantations

Finally, while in town, don't forget to look up.
It is quite impressive to see how the steep cliffs are being cultivated with terraces.
In the area, you can find several vineyards.


Things to do around Porto Moniz

You can combine your visit to Porto Moniz with other great attractions in the same area.
Below are my favorite things to see and places to visit, not far from Porto Moniz (under 20min drive)

Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz

Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz

The cable car at Achadas da Cruz is one of the hidden gems of Madeira. It is getting more popular as Porto Moniz advertises for it in town, but it is still worth it.
This is really an impressive ride... so steep! It is written that the beginning has a slope of 98%, making it the steepest in Europe.
Despite my vertigo and overall anxiety, I enjoyed the ride because the scenery was breathtaking.
There is a great walking path at the bottom and beautiful views of the cliffs.

  • Under 20min drive from Porto Moniz
  • 3€ return ticket
  • 8am to 11:30am / 12:30pm to 7pm - everyday
  • Toilets
  • Snack bar

Read my article

Praia Iheus da Ribeira Janela

Praia Iheus da Ribeira Janela

Another hidden gem that is overlooked by tourists is the beach of Ribeira Janela.
True, the rocks are large and it is not easy to walk on the beach.
However, there is a staircase cut into the volcanic cliffs to reach a viewpoint overlooking the sea stacks.
And if you manage to walk on the beach, the wave crashing on the rocks are mesmerizing.
I loved it. 

  • 5min drive from Porto Moniz
  • Free access
  • Large carpark
  • Toilets

Learn more on my Ribeira da Janela article.

Seixal natural pools - Poças das Lesmas

Seixal natural pools

If you love natural pools, don't miss the ones in Seixal. They were also formed by volcanic rocks.
They are less visit because more difficult to access. But they are very impressive because of their location at the foot of the cliffs and the giant arch of volcanic rocks.

  • 15min drive East of Porto Moniz.
  • Free access
  • Very steep path to access them
  • No lifeguards
  • Snack bar
  • Toilets

Learn more

Seixal black sand beach

Seixal black sand beach

This is clearly the most beautiful beach on the island, in my opinion.
It is what I imagine when thinking of an old volcanic island: smooth black sand with steep cliffs with lush vegetation.
There is even a small waterfall on the beach!

  • 15min drive East of Porto Moniz.
  • Free access
  • No lifeguards
  • You can drive all the way down
  • Restrooms
  • Snack bar - restaurant

Fanal Forest

Fanal Forest

On the Paul da Serra plateau, you can find the Unesco Natural Heritage site of the Laurissilva forest.
Here you discover hilly meadows and crooked trees. It is quite enchanting.
The island and much of Southern Europe used to be covered by this native forest. In Madeira is one of the largest patches left.

  • large carpark
  • free access
  • toilets
  • the trees are near the carpark, but you can also explore the hiking trails around
  • Best with some fog, for moody photography (but don't get lost!)

And further away

Nothing is really far from where you are in Madeira... But a few other attractions in the West area of Madeira are:

  • Sao Vicente and its lava caves
  • The waterfall of Garganta funda
  • The Lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo
  • ...

All can be found in my eBook.


Activities around Porto Moniz

Hiking

There are a few hiking opportunities around Porto Moniz

  • Levada da Ribeira da Janela - the most famous - 12km one way - well-maintained path in the valley Ribeira da Janela (bring a torch to go through tunnels)
  • 25 Fontes hike (a little further away) - the most famous levada walk in Madeira to a waterfall - At least 4h return
  • and more (but less maintained paths)

Canyoning

There are many canyoning circuits near Porto Moniz (Riberia da Cruz, Ribeiro Funda...)
I would say it is the best options to book your accommodation is canyoning is your main objective.


Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?

  • 42 Madeira travel tips to plan an unforgettable trip - read article
  • Where to stay in Madeira - best areas - read article
  • The best landscapes in Madeira in 40 pictures - read article
  • 10 best hikes & levada walks in Madeira - reach article
  • Tips to drive around Madeira - read article
  • 18 best beaches in Madeira - read article
  • 7 best Madeira boat tours & trips - read article

Planning a trip to Madeira?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

Plan your perfect trip around Madeira!

small Madeira ebook cover
  • 7 easy-to-plan Maps
  • 120+ pre-selected scenic locations
  • Planning tips to make the most of your time
  • 260+ large photos to decide where to go
  • GPS coordinates direct to the carparks

LEARN MORE

And keep track of your own trip!

Madeira travel Journal

Want to see more of MADEIRA?

PREVIOUS: 

Calhau da Lapa

NEXT: 

The impressive Achadas da Cruz cable car

Madeira Travel Guide

Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!

Footer

CONTACT ME

Search

Follow ZigZag on Facebook

Follow ZigZag on Pinterest

Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr

Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de

Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com

And discover the French regions:

Normandielovers.fr

LoireLovers.fr

CorsicaLovers.fr

 

Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy

Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca

Copyright © 2023 ZigZag On Earth · Log in

If you continue browsing this site you agree with the use of cookies in this website.OkRead more