Staying in Porto Moniz: 20 Things to Do

1. Swim in the Natural Pools

The famous volcanic pools of Porto Moniz are a must-visit. These naturally formed saltwater pools are perfect for a refreshing swim while enjoying stunning ocean views. There are 2 pools: paid and free. We prefer the free pools as they are less ‘manicured’ and sunsets look stunning from it.

2. Explore the Madeira Aquarium

Housed in the historic São João Baptista Fort, the Madeira Aquarium showcases Madeira’s rich marine life, from colourful fish to local shark species.​

“With 12 exhibition tanks and more than 90 native species, the Madeira Aquarium, housed in an old fort, offers a memorable journey through the archipelago’s vivid underwater world.”

3. Take a Scenic Walk

The northwest of Madeira is full of scenic trails. Try the Vereda do Fanal or the Levada dos Cedros, where you’ll walk through the enchanting Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.​

If you fancy something more local and on tarmac, do like many locals do due to lack of public transportation, which is to walk from Porto Moniz town all the way up to Santa. It will get your cardio going whilst providing with beautiful views.

4. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Porto Moniz is home to a few restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Don’t miss grilled limpets (lapas), caramujos (sea snails) and espada (black scabbard fish)! Personally I prefer espada grilled.Consider dining at Restaurante Polo Norte or Cachalote for authentic flavours.​

With 20% of Madeira’s population being from Venezuela, it would be a shame to miss out on some of their delicious food. Try empanadas or arepas in Ilhéu Mole or Vila north 77.

5. Try Geocaching

For those who love a treasure hunt, Porto Moniz offers great geocaching spots where you can discover hidden caches while enjoying incredible views.​

6. Visit the Ciência Viva Science Centre

This interactive museum, the Madeira Ciência Viva Centre, hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year. Yes the architecture is uninviting, and the inside feels empty and disorganised, that’s because it is. It’s a portrait of our system and a perfect example on how money is absorbed for projects with little planning and vision.

You might however encounter interesting exhibitions by children, locals, seniors and other collaborations. Don’r run there!

7. Take in the Views from Miradouros

Porto Moniz has several incredible viewpoints, such as Miradouro da Santa and Miradouro da Ribeira da Janela.. and ALL the popular destinations. However these smaller less visited spots are not to miss:

• Espaço Infinito owned by Rui Nelson – Seixal
• Road from Chao da Ribeira – stunning view driving down
• Miradouro da Laje – Seixal
• Secret spot in Ribeira Funda – HARD to get. Get in touch for help
• Miradouro to Cabo Calhau – Porto Moniz
• Pico – Porto Moniz
• Faja do Barro – Porto Moniz

8. Discover Santa Village

A small and picturesque village near Porto Moniz, Santa is a charming place with traditional Madeiran houses and beautiful countryside views.​

Whislt there visit the coffee shop and bakery super popular with the locals: Rodipan. It’s a time capsule.

9. Explore Lamaceiros

Lamaceiros is a lesser-known area offering great hiking opportunities and untouched landscapes for those looking to get off the beaten path and into photography. An absolute trip into the past of Madeira where you can find many old constructions alongside new ones.

10. Visit the old Whale Watching outposts

Porto Moniz was once a hub for whale hunting, and you can still find remnants of the old whale-watching outposts used by spotters. These simple stone structures, known as “Vigias,” were strategically placed on high coastal cliffs, giving whalers a perfect vantage point to scan the ocean for passing whales. Today, these sites serve as quiet, historical reminders of Madeira’s past, now repurposed for peaceful whale watching and stunning ocean views.

11. Shop for Unique Jewellery

Local artisans originally from Czech Republic and our friends at Limetka craft beautiful handmade jewellery using glass beads from the Czech Republic—perfect as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.​

The banana collection has a real local vibe, perfect for a special party or event.

12. Watch the sunrise over Ribeira da Janela

This spot will provide you with a most unforgettable view of the sunrise, with the natural rocks of Ribeira da Janela in the foreground.

13. Take a Private 4×4 Tour

A lot of my clients rent a car and also book a private tour with me so that they can leave the driving to someone else and enjoy the views whilst learning about the island.

For a unique adventure, book a private tour with Misty Mountains. You’ll explore hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes that are difficult to access by regular car.​ Each tour is different, customised to the preferences of each guest.

14. Visit the Lava Formations at Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela

These towering rock formations just off the coast are a geological wonder and a great spot for photography.​

15. Experience the Tranquility of Chão da Ribeira

This valley near Seixal is a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, perfect for a picnic or a quiet walk among the forests.​ Watch out for the stunning views driving back down. There is also a Trout Farm deep in the valley.

16. Try Local Poncha

Poncha, a traditional Madeiran drink made with sugarcane rum, honey, and citrus juice, is a must-try when visiting the north coast. My personal favourite is at Serrao in Sao Vicente where the owner only does one type: lemon & honey. Others worth trying is Venda Nova and Taberna da Poncha​ also in Sao Vicente.

I am often surprised that my guest’s first experience of Poncha is disappointing. Try the places above for a real one!

17. Visit the Chapel of Santa

A small, picturesque chapel located in Santa (if you’re into that), this historic site offers a peaceful atmosphere and lovely views of the surrounding hills.​ At Christmas all churches and chapels are filled with beautiful orchids donated by the locals.

18. Explore Seixal’s Black Sand Beach

A short drive from Porto Moniz, Seixal Beach is one of Madeira’s rare natural black sand beaches, offering a stunning contrast between the dark sand and lush green cliffs.​

We prefer to stay on the pier, looking at the mountain and sea, rather than being on the sand looking at the concrete pier. Most locals don’t like sand, they prefer clean rock or concrete.

19. Visit a vineyard

In Faja das Contreiras, you will find a vineyard owned and managed by Terras do Avo. It’s a perfect example of how vines are grown on the island with stunning views. A quiet spot worth visiting.

20. Relax and Watch the Sunset

An absolute awesome spot for the sunset is whilst swimming in the old volcanic pools of Porto Moniz. It’s just magical (if weather permits). Another spot is from Laje in Seixal, or in Sao Vicente at the surfers spot, where in the summer you can see the sun setting right about the village of Porto Moniz.

From Porto Moniz it’s not possible to actually see the sun setting for most of the year, only in high summer season around the summer solstice. However the glow and sky colours are epic.