Piscinas Naturais do Cachalote (Aquário)

At the entrance to Porto Moniz, near the Madeira Aquarium, the "Cachalote" natural pools — also called the Aquário pools — are the wild, free version of the volcanic basins: an untouched shape into which the pure water of the Atlantic flows naturally. No facilities or toilets, just an outdoor shower; the site is supervised during the bathing season. Next door: the aquarium (more than 90 species of the archipelago) and the Centro de Ciência Viva with its permanent Laurissilva exhibition. Not an official bathing water in 2026: no lifeguard service is guaranteed; follow the notices on site and the flags.