Hot springs and volcanic pools are true paradises within the paradise that is Madeira Island. These secret spots on the island will enrich your trip magnificently, being one of the best things to do in Madeira, and you just need to know what they are and where they are! The best thermal springs and volcanic pools in Madeira Island are:

• Doca do Cavacas or Poca do Gomes
• Seixal Natural Swimming Pools
• Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
• Piscinas Naturais Velhas

Where are Madeira’s hot springs and volcanic pools?

The volcanic pools are located on the north coast of the island, in Porto Moniz and Seixal. The volcanic pools in Madeira are pools formed by volcanic rocks where the salt water from the sea enters naturally, with an incredible view of the deep Atlantic Ocean and its coastline with its verdant landscapes.

What is the temperature in the Volcanic pools in Madeira Island?

The temperature of the water in the lava pools remains constant throughout the year, averaging between 68-69.8F (20-21C). This means that you can visit the pools any time of the year, depending on your preference.

Best time to visit volcanic pool in Madeira Island

Winter is the low season, which means you can expect fewer crowds. However, the cooler pools combined with the cold air may not be pleasant for some. The best time to visit during the winter months is in the central hours of the day when the sun is out and the air temperature is slightly warmer.

Summer, especially in August, is the best time to visit the natural lava pools in terms of air temperature. However, this is also the high season, and the pools can get really crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, make sure to arrive early or as soon as they open at 9 am, as the place gets busy from 11 am.

To make the most out of your visit to Porto Moniz, it’s best to plan in advance and avoid visiting the lava pools on weekends and local holidays. This will help you avoid the crowds and have a more enjoyable experience.

Doca do Cavacas or Pocas do Gomes

The volcanic pools of Doca do Cavadas or Pocas Gomes, as it is also known, are in a small tip located next to Praia Formosa. In the Poças do Gomes tunnel there are also sea caves that you can enjoy along with the natural pools. Although they are natural pools, the lava rocks have been modified to allow bathers to walk and swim around them. It has stairs and infrastructure nearby for visitors’ comfort.

• Useful Infos:
  • Access by stairs
  • 15 minutes drive from Funchal (the old town)
  • Daily entrance ticket: €5.20
  • Opening hours: 9am to 8pm
  • It has lifeguards
  • It has showers and toilets
  • It has a small leisure area and restaurant

Seixal Natural Swimming Pools

Seixal’s natural pools in Poças das Lesmas are the most impressive in Madeira. It is located at the foot of the cliffs and has a giant arch of stones around it. These volcanic pools are an incredible landscape and a different experience, with few visitors, which can be amazing for those who like tranquillity. And a little beyond the pools, there is one of Madeira’s rare sandy beaches, with unusual black sand.

• Useful Infos:
  • Difficult access (steep, many stairs, far parking)
  • Free access
  • 15 minutes drive east from Porto Moniz
  • 45 minutes drive from Funchal
  • No lifeboat
  • Coffee/support bar
  • Sanitary installations

Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools

Porto Moniz Natural Pools, with an area of 3,800 m², are the most famous volcanic pools in Madeira Island. With crystal clear waters and their cracks smoothed and modified to have a safer swimming and diving environment, these pools are great for family outings. And it’s still an incredible landscape, great for souvenir photos!

• Important infos:
  • Easy access
  • 1h drive from Funchal
  • Entry fee € 1.50
  • Opening hours: 9am to 5pm in winter and 9am to 7pm in summer
  • Best times: before 10am and after 3pm
  • It has lifeguards
  • It has a children’s pool
  • It has a children’s playground
  • It has a car park
  • It has access for the disabled
  • There are changing rooms and changing rooms with lockers for storing personal belongings.
  • It has a snack bar open in summer
  • Sun loungers and parasols rental

Piscinas Naturais Velhas

If you’re looking for a rural beach with a unique swimming experience, then Piscinas Naturais Velhas is a must-visit destination. With a sunbathing area of approximately 3217 m2 and a swimming area of 3800 m2, you can enjoy a total of 7600 m3 of seawater that is constantly replaced.

The average annual water temperature here is between 20-21ºC, making it a pleasant place to swim all year round. You can also enjoy the local marine biodiversity while you swim, making for a memorable and immersive experience.

In addition to the stunning natural pools, the site also has a bar, changing rooms, a playground, first aid services, loungers, and umbrellas available for rent. With lifeguards on duty, you can feel safe and secure while you relax and swim.

The pools are open all year round, with winter opening hours from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and summer opening hours from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Admission fees vary depending on age, student status, and residency, with entry fees starting from €3.

To make the most out of your visit, be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural paradise. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, towel, and swimming gear, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Piscinas Naturais Velhas.

The best hotels with pool in Funchal, Madeira

Here below i list some hotels that offers pool and have a great experience with confort without leave the acommodation.

Pestana Palms Ocean Aparthotel	US$ 165
Two Towers Hotel	US$ 67
Pestana Carlton Madeira	US$ 101
Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino	US$ 109
Pestana CR7 Funchal	US$ 113
Pestana Grand Premium Ocean Resort	US$ 132
Savoy Palace	US$ 226
Suite Hotel Jardins da Ajuda	US$ 55
The Cliff Bay – PortoBay	US$ 201
TURIM Santa Maria Hotel	US$ 140