Visiting the natural swimming pools at Salemas Beach, in Porto Santo, was one of those adventures that felt like it was made for us. It’s not for everyone, but if the two of us with two kids aged 3 and 5 can do it, it’s all about wanting to get down there and discover this picture-perfect beach, surrounded by cliffs and natural pools nestled among the rocks, offering something for everyone.
We were in a hotel in the south of the island of Porto Santo when we were told that we couldn't miss Salemas Beach and its natural swimming pools. It didn't take many arguments to convince us to go there, especially after we learnt that there was a 'small challenge' that we had to overcome to get there.
Curiosity set in and we hit the road towards the north coast of Porto Santo. Although it sounds like a long journey, it only took about 15 minutes! One of the great things about Porto Santo is that the island offers a huge variety of activities just a few minutes away, given its relatively small size. I have to admit, though, we didn’t make it there on our first try! - 'Don’t bother with Google Maps, we’ll find it on our own', I said confidently, feeling like a local on this magical island. Unfortunately, I missed our destination! - 'Dad, I think we're lost, I can't see any way to the beach', my son said, already impatient to see the 'secret' beach I promised him we'd find. I then pulled up the map and realised I just needed to take the next street. Problem solved in five minutes! In the blink of an eye, we were already in the car park closest to the footpath to Salemas Beach, in Porto Santo.
With our backpacks packed with towels, water, a change of clothes for the kids, and some snacks, we set off, all smiles, walking down the ramp into the unknown At first, you have no clue where the beach is, since all you see are rocks and a dirt track that seems to stretch on forever, used by emergency, surveillance or maintenance vehicles. The steep slope makes the route even more magical, with a hint of adventure that makes you remember the experience.
The descent was fast and exciting, especially when we had to hold on to each other to avoid slipping. - 'Let's go skiing', Francisco said, slipping happily down the slope! Suddenly, we reached a hook-shaped bend and caught a glimpse of the hidden little beach below, with its light, golden sand, for the first time. From that moment on, it was just a matter of seconds, crossing a small bridge, and there we were!
As soon as our feet touched the sand, we were greeted by a mother duck and her eight ducklings, who seemed to inhabit that paradise. We met a few people, young and adult, all very relaxed and enjoying the magic. The sunlight hitting the cliffs, the reflections dancing in the natural pools between the rocks, the gentle sound of the sea lapping outside, and the peaceful atmosphere we experienced at Salemas Beach, in Porto Santo, were absolutely spectacular.
Whenever we say the word 'pool', our children immediately think about jumping in, and this time was no different! There were natural pools of all shapes and forms. Some were smaller and just for one person, others were much bigger and you could even take a few short strokes (or long ones if you're a kid). Closer to the sea, we found pools that formed small waterfalls when the waves hit. Something else we loved was the water temperature, which is already amazing throughout the archipelago of Madeira, but even warmer at Salemas Beach, in Porto Santo. Since the natural pools aren’t deep, they heat up under the sun and turn into small jacuzzis! Wonderful!
As the sun began to set in the west, the beach was becoming empty. The next thing I knew, it was just us, there in that paradise. Alone in that unbelievable setting, we started the usual crazy antics, and the laughter grew in volume.
It was an incredible family evening, and with the hot summer day and the warm water of the pools, we felt so good that we didn't leave until after sunset. We still had the way back to the car, and doing it in the dark with the kids would already be too bold an adventure.
Our afternoon at Salemas Beach, in Porto Santo, was truly unforgettable. Between the thrilling descent, the sense of discovery and all the fun in the natural pools, we felt like we were exploring a hidden paradise. For those who love exploring unique spots and being in direct contact with nature, this is a place you simply can’t miss. And if we can do it with two small children, I'm sure anyone with an adventurous spirit can do it too.
