Seixal Natural Pools Poças das Lesmas
Seixal's Poças das Lesmas: volcanic rock pools meeting the Atlantic, offering a cool, refreshing swim amidst dramatic coastal scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Seixal Natural Pools Poças das Lesmas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seixal's Poças das Lesmas: volcanic rock pools meeting the Atlantic, offering a cool, refreshing swim amidst dramatic coastal scenery.
"Beautiful place! When the sea is a little rough and the waves come into the pool it’s just a rush and so much fun."
🌊 Embrace the Waves
When the sea is rough, waves can surge into the pools for an exhilarating swim!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough; tourist jeeps sometimes hog spots. Arrive early or be prepared to search.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seixal Natural Pools
Poças das Lesmas
Volcanic rock pools meet the Atlantic, offering a unique swimming experience with cool, clear waters.
Black Sand Beach
Praia da Laje
Adjacent to the pools, this striking black sand beach provides a dramatic contrast to the blue ocean.
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Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Embrace the Waves
When the sea is rough, waves can surge into the pools for an exhilarating swim!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough; tourist jeeps sometimes hog spots. Arrive early or be prepared to search.
💰 Admission Fee
Note that there's now an admission fee for the pools.
🐠 Pool Inhabitants
The pools are home to fish, adding a unique element to your swim.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Embrace the Waves
When the sea is rough, waves can surge into the pools for an exhilarating swim!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough; tourist jeeps sometimes hog spots. Arrive early or be prepared to search.
💰 Admission Fee
Note that there's now an admission fee for the pools.
🐠 Pool Inhabitants
The pools are home to fish, adding a unique element to your swim.
🍔 On-site Bites
A small food truck offers snacks and drinks, but bring your own essentials too.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty and unique experience of Seixal's natural pools, often highlighting the dramatic volcanic landscape and the refreshing, cool waters. Some appreciate its quieter atmosphere compared to other spots. However, a few mention concerns about water clarity and parking availability, with recent changes including an admission fee.
"This is my husband’s favorite spot. The pool has fish and the tempeture of pool is cool, but once you swim, you feel good. We went there on May 21,2025."
LISA WU
"Beautiful place! When the sea is a little rough and the waves come into the pool it’s just a rush and so much fun"
Felix Vorbeck
"The water inside the natural pools are dirty not clear water for a nice swim. Also all the car spaces are taken up by tourist jeeps who just sit there all day and chat to each other"
David Freitas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Seixal Natural Pools is by car, offering a scenic drive along Madeira's northern coast. Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore the island and reach less accessible spots like Poças das Lesmas.
Parking can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist season. Some visitors have noted that tourist jeeps can occupy spaces for extended periods. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended to increase your chances of finding a spot.
The drive to Seixal is often described as incredibly scenic, winding along the rugged northern coast of Madeira. Expect breathtaking ocean views and dramatic landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is now an admission fee to enter the Seixal Natural Pools. While it was once free, this has changed, so be prepared for a small charge.
The pools may close during high surf conditions for safety. It's advisable to check local conditions or inquire locally if you are planning a visit during potentially rough seas.
No, the pools are closed during high surf conditions for safety reasons.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The water in the natural pools is described as cool, but once you get used to it, it's a refreshing and enjoyable experience, especially on a warm day.
Information on specific facilities like changing rooms and restrooms is not widely detailed, but a small food truck is available for refreshments. It's best to come prepared with your own essentials.
Crowds can vary. While it's a popular spot, it's often described as quieter than other natural pools in the area. Visiting during off-peak hours can significantly reduce the number of people.
Yes, visitors have reported seeing fish in the natural pools, adding to the unique ecosystem and swimming experience.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for dramatic shots of the volcanic pools and the coastline. The contrast of the black sand and the blue ocean is particularly striking.
Capture the dramatic contrast of the black volcanic rock against the turquoise Atlantic waters. Wide-angle shots showcasing the pools and the coastline are stunning, as are close-ups of the unique rock formations and marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's a small food truck, bringing snacks and drinks is a good idea for families. The nearby black sand beach also offers a different kind of fun, though it's important to be aware of the ocean conditions. The drive to Seixal itself can be an adventure, with stunning views that kids might enjoy.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the adjacent Praia da Laje, a striking black sand beach that adds another layer of visual interest. The best light for photography is often during the golden hours, providing a warm glow that enhances the textures and colors of the landscape. Be prepared for challenging parking, but the photographic rewards are well worth the effort.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Origins of Seixal's Pools
These pools are a striking example of how nature shapes the coastline. The contrast between the rugged, dark volcanic stone and the vibrant blue of the ocean is a photographer's dream. Visitors often marvel at the raw beauty and the power of the sea that sculpted this serene spot.
Experiencing the Pools: What to Expect
While the pools themselves are a draw, the adjacent Praia da Laje (Seixal Beach) is equally impressive. This striking black sand beach offers a dramatic backdrop and a different coastal experience. Together, the natural pools and the black sand beach make Seixal a must-visit destination on Madeira's north coast.
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