2 Best Sights in Madeira, Portugal

Though not a beach per se, the otherworldly natural sea pools in Porto Moniz are one of the most popular sites in Madeira, with children and adults splashing in the waters around the volcanic rocks or soaking up some sun on the concrete "beach." There are pools of varying sizes, some shallow and calm (perfect for kids), and some deeper and rougher for more adventurous types (one even has a diving board). Several pools have wheelchair access. You can rent deck chairs and umbrellas and dine at the snack bar during the summer months. The water here is significantly colder than elsewhere on the island. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: swimming.

About 12 km (7 miles) south of Porto Moniz is the Achadas da Cruz cable car—an engineering marvel that transports visitors down the almost vertical drop to the windswept farming area of Fajã da Quebrada Nova. Before the cable car was built a few years ago, the only way to get there was by boat. The tiny carriages operate only when needed, so press the button to confirm you're ready to go. At the bottom you'll find a truly beautiful part of Madeira, with wind-contoured fields, black-stone beaches, deafening waves, and a tangle of grape vines used for local wine making.