Porto Moniz

Swimmers float in a network of crystal-clear saltwater pools that reflect the azure sky off the coast of Porto Moniz on the northwestern coast of Portugal's Madeira Island. The natural salt ponds' tranquillity belies their tumultuous origin narrative. The Madeira archipelago, located southwest of mainland Portugal, was produced by volcanic eruptions on a huge hotspot beneath the eastern Atlantic Ocean. Lava initially reached the surface more than five million years ago, with frequent eruptions lasting until around 25,000 years ago.

Madeira's rugged mountains and valleys were sculpted by volcanoes and erosion during inactive eras. During the most recent period of volcanic activity, lava poured down through an existing valley and out to sea where Porto Moniz is now, cooling and hardening into the volcanic rock that now forms the pools' walls. Ocean water rushes over the rocks, replenishing the pools and occasionally taking fish and shrimp with it. High winds can cause waves to smash over the granite walls, but in calm weather, the pools provide a tranquil bathing experience for people who want to swim in the ocean without having to battle the breakers. The facility also has a children's pool and play area, and it is wheelchair accessible.

Bathers will find all the amenities they need for a relaxing beach day, including parking, changing rooms and lockers, a snack shop, and lounge chairs and sunshades for hire. There are lifeguards on duty, as well as a first aid station. Hikers may also walk inland on the beautiful Levada da Ribiera da Janela route from Porto Moniz.

Location: Madeira, Portugal