Porto Moniz Things To Do

Rock Pools
Porto Moniz is famous for its natural bathing pools – protected by lava rocks and filled with shallow, crystal clear warm water. A promenade includes snack bars and the Living Science Centre, which features a cyber café, interactive games and exhibitions. Swimmers may also like to explore the beaches just along the coast around Seixal.

Water Sports
The north of the island from here to São Vicente is a paradise for experienced surfers and windsurfers, although the rocky coastline and large waves can make it a little intimidating for learners. For snorkelling and scuba diving it is best to travel to nearby Seixal, the south of Madeira or to Porto Santo.

Walking & Hiking
The coastal road offers a truly exhilarating experience, although drivers may find it difficult to enjoy as they negotiate the narrow, winding roads. Exploring north Madeira by foot gives time to take in the breathtaking views from the island’s peaks and to enjoy the ancient Laurissilva forests in the Madeira Nature Park, a World heritage Site. The island is also criss-crossed by the levadas - irrigation canals - alongside which are walkways that make hiking one of the best ways to see the island.

Jeep Tours & Helicopter Flights
Of course, you don’t have to walk to appreciate the spectacular volcanic scenery. There are jeep tours and the helipad in the village offers tourist flights. There are also helicopter flights from Funchal.

Activities
The location of Maderia is ideal for whale and dolphin spotting, deep sea fishing and sailing, while the weather makes it an all-year destination for tennis and golf enthusiasts.

The Volcanism Centre
Located in São Vicente, a delightful village on Madeira’s north coast, this is the place to find out about the island’s creation. As entertaining as it is informative, the centre shows audiovisual presentations and offers the chance to explore the famous tunnels.

Santana Theme Park
Covering 17 acres, the park is one of the island’s most popular attractions. Visitors can learn about local culture, history and landscape in its multimedia pavilions; enjoy the boating lake, maze and gardens; or, for the more energetic, the cable slides, bungee-jumps and wall climbs.

Achadas da Cruz Cable Car
Built to take tourists and local farmers down the cliffs, this thrilling ride offers a superb bird’s-eye view of Porto Moniz.

Funchal
Although Porto Moniz is the furthest village from Funchal, the island’s historic capital, with its marina, boat trips, shops and restaurants, is well worth a visit. And don’t miss the nearby mountain village of Monte and the Botanical Gardens with their stunning views. Take the cable car up and come down by traditional wicker toboggans at speeds of up to 30 mph through the narrow streets.