7.5 hours North West
Porto Moniz & Fanal Forest Day Trip
Seixal's black sand, the Véu da Noiva waterfall, the Porto Moniz volcanic pools and Fanal forest — the full west coast in an open-roof 4x4.
from €69
Check availabilityPorto Moniz Natural Pools
Lava pools filled by the Atlantic at the island's north-western corner.
Volcanic rock pools where the sea washes in over the edges, made swimmable with steps, ladders and lifeguards. There is a paid complex with facilities and a free set of wilder pools next door.
Paid or free
The main Piscinas Naturais complex charges a small entry fee and gives you changing rooms, showers, sun loungers, a café and lifeguards. The neighbouring Cachalote pools are free, rockier and less supervised.
Water comes straight off the Atlantic, so it is cool year round — around 18–19°C in winter and low twenties at the end of summer.
Swell decides everything
On a calm day the pools are glassy and children can paddle safely. On a big north swell they close entirely, and no amount of planning changes that. Check the sea state before driving 90 minutes from Funchal.
Local tips
- — Water shoes help on the lava rock.
- — Lunch on the seafront looking at the pools is one of the north coast's better cheap meals.
Guided trips here
Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.
Full day Island-wide pickupWest Madeira 4x4 Jeep Safari
Porto Moniz lava pools, Seixal's black sand, the Fanal laurel forest and the Cabo Girão cliff skywalk, in a small open 4x4 with a local driver.
from €55
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7 hours Porto Moniz 4.9(372)West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups
Visit some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer, this is one of the most complete tours you can do. From the Southern coast, through the centre plateau arriving to the northern coast. This tour stops in.
from €35
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8 hours Porto Moniz 4.8(744)Madeira West Porto Moniz pools - Enchanted Terraces Fanal Unesco
Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we showcase the breathtaking beauty of Madeira's northwest coast.
from €69
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8 hours Porto Moniz 4.8(13)Shore Excursion Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces 4x4 tour
This is a shore excursion with pick up / drop off at the cruise terminal (pick up at the harbour €5.00 extra or free pick up at CR7 statue / museum) Enjoy a beautiful and pleasant tour alongside Madeira’s North West Coast, deep in…
from €69
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7 hours Porto Moniz 4.8(103)Fanal e Porto Moniz: O Lado Icónico
Discover Madeira’s most iconic side on a journey through the island’s most spectacular viewpoints, featuring the magical Fanal Forest and the famous Porto Moniz natural pools.
from €55
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Stay nearby
Where to base yourself for this part of the island.
Avenida do Infante, Funchal
Palace Vista · Luxury 2BR opposite Savoy Palace
Three private balconies, steps from the seafront
4 guests 2 bedrooms
€275 / night
View stay
Santa Luzia, Funchal
Funchal modern 3 bedroom bay view apartment
Large balcony with a full Funchal bay view
6 guests 3 bedrooms
€125 / night
View stayNearby
Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.
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