Best Swimming Spots in Madeira: Beaches, Natural Pools & Hidden Gems
Madeira might not be known for endless sandy beaches, but what it lacks in golden coastline it more than makes up for with incredible natural swimming spots. From crystal-clear volcanic pools to small sheltered beaches, the island has plenty of places where you can take a dip, cool off, and soak up the views.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up some of the best swimming spots in Madeira, including both natural rock pools and beaches, and details on cost and accessibility. Whether you prefer calm water, dramatic waves, or a cocktail by the pool, Madeira has something for everyone.
At a glance
Seixal Natural Pools
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools
Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools
Lido Galomar
Saccharum Resort
Calheta Beach
Seixal Beach
Praia da Ponta do Sol
Praia de Machico
Seixal Natural Pools
Location: Poças das Lesmas, Seixal & Piscinas Naturais do Seixal
Cost: Free
Located on Madeira’s north coast, Seixal is home to two separate natural swimming areas. The first is a large lagoon right next to the black sand beach, perfect for an easy dip or a family swim. The second, and more impressive , is Poças das Lesmas, a network of volcanic rock pools surrounded by rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic scenery.
It’s much quieter than Porto Moniz, with a more natural, untouched feel.
These pools are protected from the open ocean, so even when waves are crashing outside, the water stays calm and safe for swimming. From the edge, you can watch the waves slam into the rocks, though in rough weather, they can come up and over the walls, so take care.
You’ll also spot lots of small crabs clinging to the rocks and walls. They wont bother you, but If crustaceans aren’t your thing, maybe give this one a miss. Above the pools, there’s a small café with a terrace which is ideal for a post-swim drink. I’d highly recommend bringing water shoes or Crocs, as the volcanic rock is sharp underfoot and makes getting in and out far more graceful.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Location: Porto Moniz Natural Pools
Cost: Free (eastern pools) / ~€2 (western complex)
The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are Madeira’s most famous swimming spot . Formed by ancient lava flows and naturally filled by the Atlantic, these pools are as scenic as it gets. The water is clear, calm, and refreshing, while waves crash dramatically against the black volcanic rock around you.
Like Seixal, there are two separate sets of pools here. The western complex (Porto moniz) is a modern facility with changing rooms, lifeguards, and sun loungers, its perfect if you want something a bit more comfortable. The eastern pools (Cachalot) on the other hand, are completely free and far more rugged, offering a wilder, more natural experience. Both are worth checking out, especially if you’re exploring Madeira’s northwest coast.
Parking in Porto Moniz can be difficult, as the town’s streets are narrow and mostly one-way. I’d recommend paying for one of the cheap public car parks instead of driving in circles looking for a free space, it’ll save you time and stress.
Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools
Location: Cachalote Pools, Porto Moniz
Cost: Free
Just a short walk from the main Porto Moniz complex, the Cachalote Pools are smaller, quieter, and more natural. They’re ideal if you want the same dramatic setting without the crowds. The water here is usually calm, and there’s a restaurant overlooking the pools.It’s free to enter, and you can easily visit both sets of pools on the same trip. On both occasion I have visited i have swam here
Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools
Location: Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools
Cost: €5
Tucked between Funchal and Camara de Lobos, the Doca do Cavacas pools are a great place to spend a sunny afternoon. The natural volcanic pools are connected by walkways, and you get a stunning view of Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s tallest sea cliffs, rising in the background.
There’s a small café and bar, sun loungers, and steps for easy access to the water. It’s busier than some of the northern pools, but far more convenient if you’re based in Funchal. It’s also a great spot for sunset as you can see from the shots below.
Lido Galomar
Location: Lido Galomar, Caniço
Cost: €8 (day pass, includes sunbed and facilities)
Part of the Sentido Galosol Resort, Lido Galomar is one of the best ocean lidos on Madeira’s south coast. Built into the cliffs, it offers direct access to the sea via ladders, platforms, and diving points, as well as a saltwater pool if you prefer something calmer.
It’s clean, well-maintained, and never feels overcrowded. There’s also a bar and restaurant overlooking the ocean, perfect for grabbing a drink after a swim.
I stayed here for a week and loved having this on my doorstep. It costs 8 euro to enter but we were never asked to pay or asked to see our hotel room key.
Saccharum Resort
Location: Savoy Saccharum Resort, Calheta
Cost: Free if buying food and drinks
If you’re after a classier sunset spot, the Fly Lounge Bar at the Saccharum Resort in Calheta is hard to beat. Set above the ocean with panoramic views of the horizon, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail in hand as the sun melts into the Atlantic.
The bar combines modern design, chill lounge music, and a relaxed vibe, making it one of Madeira’s most stylish yet unpretentious spots to watch the day fade away. The rooftop infinity pool beside the bar reflects the colours perfectly and creates a sunset scene that looks straight out of a luxury travel magazine.
My partner and I stayed here for 10 days on our honeymoon, and it didn’t disappoint. If you’re not staying at the resort, you can still visit the bar for drinks. However if you can afford it, I’d highly recommend booking a stay. Watching the sunset here with a drink in hand feels like a little slice of paradise.
Calheta Beach
Location: Calheta Beach
Cost: Free
I spent 10 day staying at the Saccharum hotel and I found Calheta Beach and its adjoining harbour to be a laid-back and peaceful spot to watch the sunset.
As one of the island’s few sandy beaches. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed end to the day rather than a hike or climb.
There’s plenty of free roadside parking above the marina, and it’s just a short five-minute stroll down to the beach. Find a spot along the sand or grab a table at one of the waterfront cafés. Either way, you’ll have front-row seats to one of Madeira’s most peaceful sunsets.
Seixal Beach
Location: Porto do Seixal Beach
Cost: Free
Porto do Seixal Beach is another black-sand gem on the north coast. The contrast of dark volcanic sand against the turquoise water and steep cliffs is striking, and the calm, shallow bay makes it perfect for a swim.
It’s also one of the few spots on the north side where you can safely swim in the ocean, though the waves can pick up so take care in bigger swell.
Praia da Ponta do Sol
Location: Praia da Ponta do Sol
Cost: Free
Tucked beneath towering cliffs, Praia da Ponta do Sol is one of Madeira’s most picturesque pebble beaches. The water is clear and usually calm, making it ideal for a quick swim.
The beach sits right in front of the village of Ponta do Sol, which means you’ve got restaurants, bars, and cafés within a minute’s walk. It’s also one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset, so bring a towel, have a dip, and stay for golden hour.
Praia de Machico
Location: Praia de Machico
Cost: Free
Located on Madeira’s east coast, Machico Beach is a wide, sandy stretch with calm water, lifeguards, and all the amenities you’d expect from a popular seaside town. The beach is great for families and has restaurants, cafés, and showers nearby.
It’s also a nice spot to unwind after exploring the eastern side of the island or hiking at nearby Ponta de São Lourenço.
Photo by Mick Kirchman on Unsplash
Final Thoughts
Madeira might not have miles of golden sand, but it more than makes up for it with its natural pools, ocean lidos, and volcanic beaches. Whether you prefer a wild swim beneath cliffs or a lazy afternoon by the sea with a drink in hand, there’s something for every type of swimmer.
If you only have time for a few, I’d recommend Porto Moniz , Seixal, and Cahleta they each show off a different side of the island’s coastline.
the best way to get around Madeira?
The most effective way to get around Madeira is by car as it allows you freedom to visit the locations you want, whenever you want, in the shortest time possible. Meaning you can take advantage of the many incredible locations on the island to watch the sunrise and sunset.
If you do rent a car I would advise the following:
I would avoid renting a big car as many of the mountain roads and residential streets in Madeira are very narrow.
I would avoiding renting a car with a low powered engine, otherwise you will be spending most of your uphill journey changing between 1st and 2nd gear.
If you struggle with clutch control then I would definitely opt for an automatic car as some of the junctions are savagely steep.
I booked my car rental through discovercars.com, I have used them all over Europe and they search both international and local operators for the best deal.
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