Natural pools in Seixal (Madeira): tips + photos

You’ve probably seen this lava arch in photos of Madeira. We can confirm that Seixal’s swimming pools are one of the island’s must-sees.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Madeira’s Seixal natural pools, also known as Poça das Lesmas.

This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.

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Are Seixal’s natural pools worth it?

What you can see

Poça das Lesmas: access

Useful tips

Are Seixal’s natural pools worth it?

Yes, Seixal’s natural pools are well worth a visit.
They consist of tidal basins formed naturally among volcanic rock formations. And one formation makes them unforgettable: a lava arch over the main pool.

They are one of Madeira’s most beautiful natural poolsand, along with the black sand beach, one of Seixal’s main attractions.

What you can see

View of the cliffs from the town

Even before descending, there’s an elevated walk along the cliff, offering panoramic views of Seixal’s natural pools below. From this elevated walkway, you can enjoy a beautiful view of all the natural basins carved out of the black volcanic rock.

It’s an excellent vantage point from which to appreciate the natural setting of a place transformed by man.

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Madeira’s lava arch

The lava rocks (basalt) that form Seixal’s magnificent natural pools have their origins in Madeira’s volcanic past, created by eruptions millions of years ago.
The lava cooled and solidified to form the rugged rock formations that have been eroded by the elements. The basins fill naturally at high tide, when seawater rushes in through openings in the lava rock, and erosion creates basins of varying depths.

Although the lava rock formations are entirely natural, man has added concrete paths and stairs to enable visitors to access the pools.

The lava arch

The main attraction of these pools is a rather unique formation: a huge arch of hardened lava above the main pool.
It rises to a height of around 6 metres
Photographers will particularly appreciate this structure:

With its reflections in the calm waters of the pool, especially at sunrise or sunset.
With the different angles when you swim underneath (but be careful not to get your camera wet!).
Its shape and colors are truly fascinating!

Swimming under the arch span is a truly unique experience!

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Transparent water

The pools are filled directly by seawater, which rushes in through openings in the volcanic lava rock at high tide.
It is particularly clean and crystal-clear.
The contrast between the dark rock and the emerald, transparent water is superb!
It’s ideal for swimming.

Pool series

The main pool is under the arch and behind it.
But there are also other small basins around this one. They are shallower.
Seixal’s pools are great for relaxing in the water, but they’re not as big as Porto Moniz’s swimming pools.
Beware, too, that the lava rock can be sharp in places.

Watch out for the waves

Beware, however: at high tide and in strong winds, larger waves can crash into the pools (even if the other waves, between them, may seem small).
So be very careful!

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View of the cliffs

Even if you don’t swim, we recommend a tour of the various paths between the lava rocks. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the sea and the lush cliffs so typical of Madeira.
The place is really beautiful!

The beach and the largest pool

To the right of the arch (as you look out to sea), a staircase takes you to a small beach (with large boulders) and, more importantly, into the area’s largest pool.
If you go back to the photo taken from the top of the cliffs, you can better understand the size of the basin.
It’s still not big enough for real swimming, but it’s more spacious all the same.

The bay

And from the snack-bar terrace, you have a beautiful view of the bay, with lava islets, cliffs and the church steeple standing out.
At high tide, the waves crash against its rocks, and it’s always a fascinating sight!

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Poça das Lesmas: access

Where to find Seixal’s natural pools

In the center of the village of Seixal
From Funchal = 50 min drive
From Porto Moniz = 10 min
From Machico = 1h drive
Here is a map to help you find your way:

Seixal Madeira map — Map: Seixal and its natural pools

Not to be confused with the harbour pool

Please note: on Google Maps, there’s another pool shown. It’s a large seawater pool next to the black sand beach.

Access and parking

There is some parking above the pools, but the access road is 33%.
Alternatively, you can park at the summit along the road.
Be careful, there aren’t many places. To ensure easy parking, we advise you to arrive early.

Visiting difficulties

If you park at city level, you’ll have to go downstairs to get to the pools (which means you’ll have to go back upstairs on the way back…).
It’s a tarmac road but very, very steep.
On the side there are small steps.
But be aware that people with painful knees will have difficulties.