Ilhéu de Baixo, Porto Santo: A Wild Refuge by the Golden Island

Off the southern coast of Porto Santo lies a striking rock formation that, at first glance, may seem like just another rugged outcrop. But this small island, known as Ilhéu de Baixo or Ilhéu da Cal, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, ecological value, and geological history.

For nature lovers and responsible travellers, it’s one of the most fascinating and pristine spots in the Madeira archipelago.

Where Is Ilhéu de Baixo?

Ilhéu de Baixo is located approximately 1.5 km south of Porto Santo, between Zimbralinho Beach and Calheta. Rising up to around 86 metres in height, the islet is clearly visible from the island, especially during sunset, when its rocky face glows with golden tones that mirror the colours of Porto Santo itself.

While it can be admired from various viewpoints on the island, the best way to appreciate its features is through a guided boat trip around it.

A Protected Natural Sanctuary

Ilhéu de Baixo is part of the Natura 2000 network and classified as a Special Protection Area. Its delicate ecosystem — both terrestrial and marine — is under strict environmental protection.

That’s why access to the islet is highly restricted, preserving its unique biodiversity.

It is a critical nesting site for several species of seabirds, including:

• Cory’s shearwaters (Calonectris borealis)
• Madeiran storm petrels (Hydrobates castro)
• Roseate terns (Sterna dougallii)

Because the islet is free of human disturbance, these birds return each year to breed, making it a vital spot for regional biodiversity.

Why Is It Called “Ilhéu da Cal”?

The alternative name, Ilhéu da Cal, comes from the limestone (cal) once quarried there in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The limestone was used to produce lime for construction and agriculture on Porto Santo.

Today, visitors can still spot traces of the old quarries and lime kilns, offering a glimpse into the island’s industrial past. This geological heritage makes the islet particularly interesting to geologists and history enthusiasts alike.

Can You Visit Ilhéu de Baixo?

Direct access to Ilhéu de Baixo is not open to the public, to protect its fragile ecosystem. However, authorized tours are sometimes organised for scientific, educational or environmental purposes.

For general visitors, there are still great ways to experience the islet:

• Boat tours departing from Porto Santo Marina, often circling the islet for panoramic views
• Snorkelling or diving in the surrounding marine area
• Birdwatching with binoculars from the southern coast of Porto Santo

Even without landing, sailing around the islet offers fantastic opportunities to see sea caves, nesting birds, and dramatic geological formations.

Geology That Tells a Story

One of the most striking features of Ilhéu de Baixo is its layered geological structure. The islet showcases a mix of sedimentary limestone and volcanic basalt, giving it a unique appearance and telling a story of geological evolution that spans millions of years.

The limestone layers are remnants of marine organisms that accumulated over time when the region was submerged. These were later uplifted by volcanic activity, which formed the basalt layers seen in striking contrast.

This combination makes Ilhéu de Baixo one of the most geologically diverse micro-islands in the Madeira archipelago.

For geologists and curious travellers, this offers a visible timeline of the Earth’s shifting processes, easily observable even from a boat.

Marine Life Around the Islet

Below the surface, the waters surrounding Ilhéu de Baixo are home to an impressive variety of marine species.

Though diving directly at the islet is restricted, nearby zones allow for snorkelling and guided dives, offering encounters with:

• Octopuses and moray eels
• Colourful parrotfish and wrasses
• Sea urchins, starfish, and sea cucumbers
• Occasional sightings of rays and small groupers

The clear waters and relatively shallow depth create ideal conditions for underwater photography and exploration. Because the area is protected, marine life here tends to be abundant and less disturbed by human activity.

Cultural Significance to the Locals

To many islanders, Ilhéu de Baixo is more than a rock — it’s a part of the community’s memory and identity. In the past, lime from the islet was essential in whitewashing buildings, preserving food, and agricultural practices.

Older generations still recall stories of boats heading out to extract limestone, a difficult and dangerous job at the time.

Today, the islet represents a symbol of preservation. It’s an example of how natural spaces once used for industry can become sites of ecological importance, contributing to education, tourism, and science.

Educational and Environmental Projects

Ilhéu de Baixo has been the focus of multiple conservation initiatives, many of them in partnership with:

• Instituto das Florestas e Conservação da Natureza (IFCN)
• BirdLife International
• Local schools and universities

These projects often include:

• Monitoring bird populations
• Removing invasive plant species
• Educating the local community and visitors on environmental protection

Sometimes, Porto Santo school groups participate in field trips or awareness campaigns related to the islet, helping to foster a new generation of eco-conscious citizens.

Photographic Opportunities

Even without stepping foot on the islet, Ilhéu de Baixo is a dream for photographers. The textures of the cliffs, the contrast between stone and sea, and the ever-changing light create moments of beauty that shift with the tide and sun.

Best spots to photograph Ilhéu de Baixo:

• From the Zimbralinho viewpoint, at golden hour
• From a boat at sunrise, when the cliffs are lit softly
• During seabird flight season, for action shots of nature in motion

For drone users, it’s important to note that flying near protected areas may require special permits, so be sure to check local regulations.

Pairing Your Visit With Other Adventures

To make the most of your time in southern Porto Santo, consider pairing a tour around Ilhéu de Baixo with other nearby attractions:

• Zimbralinho Beach: A small, peaceful cove with black sand and dramatic cliffs.
• Pico Ana Ferreira: Known for its unique prism-shaped basalt columns.
• Porto dos Frades: A quiet spot with natural pools and great views.
• Quinta das Palmeiras: A tropical garden oasis, perfect for families.

These stops provide a mix of nature, relaxation, and learning — making your day around Ilhéu de Baixo both enriching and diverse.

Final Reflections

Ilhéu de Baixo is not a tourist hotspot — and that’s exactly what makes it special. It stands as a symbol of what happens when nature is allowed to thrive, and it rewards those who seek meaningful travel experiences.

Whether you admire it from afar or sail gently past its jagged cliffs, the islet offers a reminder: some of the most beautiful places in the world are the ones we leave untouched.