Things to do in Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz sits on Madeira's north-west tip, roughly 90 minutes from Funchal on the ER101/VE1, and it means one thing: natural swimming pools carved into volcanic rock and refreshed by the tide. There are two distinct set-ups here, and they get mixed up constantly.

The maintained pools, with changing rooms and lifeguards, charge an entrance fee of a few euros; alongside them sit the wilder natural pools, free to use but with no facilities and rougher footing. Neither is guaranteed open. North-coast swell closes both regularly, sometimes for days at a time, so check conditions locally or with the tourist office before committing to the drive.

Sea temperatures run 18-21°C depending on season, and the village itself is a workable lunch stop even when the water's off-limits.