Wild Natural Pools / Lava Pools

On Pico, the black volcanic rock that forms the island meets the Atlantic in a rugged shoreline, and in many places the lava has made natural swimming pools. These pools form where flows of lava cooled in ridges and platforms at the water's edge, leaving hollows, channels, and walls of dark basalt that trap seawater. At high tide waves flow in and refill them, and at low tide they are calmer. The result is a series of rock pools of different sizes and depths, some small and shallow, others big enough for a proper swim.

The water is clear, and the dark rock makes it look deep blue or green, a colour contrast with the white foam of the waves outside. Temperatures usually range from the high teens to the mid-twenties in degrees Celsius, so it is cool in spring and pleasantly warm in late summer. Many of the pools have been improved by the municipality, with concrete steps, ladders, railings, changing rooms, and sometimes small cafés, and some have lifeguards in summer, though not all are supervised, so check the signs. Others are wilder and have no facilities at all.

Safety needs attention. Lava rock is rough and sharp, and it can be slippery where algae grow, so shoes or sandals with grip are a good idea. Sea urchins live in the crevices and can sting, so look before putting a foot down. Swell can send large waves across the rocks, and in rough weather the pools become dangerous, so avoid them when the sea is high or the swell is rising, and never swim alone in unsupervised spots. Entry is free, and the pools are open at all hours.

The pools are scattered around the island's coast, particularly near the towns of Madalena, Lajes do Pico, and São Roque do Pico, and they fit well into a day that includes other sights. The lava vineyards, planted in small stone-walled enclosures and listed by UNESCO, are nearby, and the island's whale-watching trips leave from the same ports. After a swim, local cafés serve fresh fish and the island's wine.

The pools suit swimmers, families with older children, and photographers. Bring a towel, water shoes, and sun protection, and ask locally about conditions before entering the sea.