The Madalena Islets – Ilhéu Deitado and Ilhéu em Pé – are situated approximately 900 metres northwest of the town bearing the same name. They are the remnants of a highly eroded surtseyan tuff cone, resulting from a basaltic submarine volcanic eruption. The tuffs composing these islets consist of fine-grained pyroclastic rock (mainly ash and lapilli), possessing a compact texture, and displaying hues ranging from yellowish to brownish, along with distinct layering. This pyroclastic deposit also contains interspersed rock fragments (referred to as lithics), which are pieces of the surrounding rocks that were propelled during the eruption and settled on the seafloor.
Serving as the “gateway” to Madalena’s harbour, the islets are easily spotted from the western part of Pico Island, offering captivating perspectives, especially during boat trips between Pico and Faial islands. The Islets of Madalena hold a prominent position as a priority geosite within the Azores Geopark, holding national significance and being of scientific and geotouristic interest.