Regona is a volcanic natural pool near Palmeira, free to access and usually uncrowded. Blue water, rewarding snorkelling and a wild feel. No facilities or supervision — best visited with calm seas and some confidence in the ocean. Perfect for real tranquillity.
When there’s no ticket booth, no sign and no one waiting
You follow a dirt track that seems to lead nowhere in particular and start to wonder if you’ve gone too far. Then it appears: volcanic rock, the ocean pushing in with force, and a natural pool of blue water that doesn’t advertise itself — it simply exists. Regona doesn’t welcome you. It’s just there.
An untamed natural pool
The Regona Natural Pool, near Palmeira, is a volcanic formation where the ocean flows in and out, creating a large natural basin. It isn’t Buracona, and it doesn’t try to be. There’s no entrance fee, no opening hours and no facilities. No railings either, and no clear instructions.
It works for people looking for quiet, minimally altered places. It doesn’t work for those who need constant supervision, information panels or carefully managed plans.
Swimming, floating and watching the sea
When the sea is calm, Regona is a joy. The water is usually clear and pleasantly warm, with vivid blue tones when the sun cooperates. There are areas where swimming is easy, and in some spots a rope helps you climb back out.
Snorkelling is one of its strong points: caves, volcanic tunnels and fish moving close to the rocks. Nothing spectacular in numbers, but very rewarding in feeling. Everything here feels more raw and real.
Many people also come simply to sit and watch the waves crash against the rock. When there’s wind, the power of the ocean commands respect.
Silence and space
Compared to Buracona, Regona is usually almost empty. Sometimes there’s no one at all. Other times, a small group, a local, or a couple of teenagers improvising as “guides” and asking for a tip without much pressure.
There’s no music, no queues, no pressure to consume. Just the sound of water and the feeling of having reached a place that doesn’t try to impress.
Here, the plan isn’t organised. And that’s exactly the plan.
The sea decides
Regona isn’t suitable for every day. With strong swell, swimming can be dangerous. The cave and some access points are slippery, and there are sea urchins among the rocks — watching where you step is not optional.
If you’re inexperienced in the ocean or uncomfortable in unsupervised natural settings, it’s better to observe from above… or come with someone more confident.
How to enjoy it without scares
— Go only with calm sea conditions and little wind.
— Wear water shoes: the rocks cut and sting.
— Don’t swim alone or too far out.
— Bring water, sun protection and snorkel gear: there’s nothing there.
— You can reach it by car; walking from Palmeira takes about 30 minutes along the dirt track.
A place you don’t explain, you respect
Regona isn’t a polished attraction or a perfect postcard. It’s a break in the coastline where the ocean pushes in hard and reminds you that you’re not in control here.
If you’re looking for natural pools without crowds, this is your place. If you want comfort, explanations and guarantees, keep moving.
Regona doesn’t look after you. It lets you be. And on Sal, that’s a luxury.
