A Pipa is a very small, low-key rocky cove on Madeira's north coast, reached by a narrow, sometimes steep lane with very limited parking, so plan for drop-off or arrive early. You should wear sturdy shoes and be ready for steps down to the water; there are no facilities or lifeguards, so bring water, snacks, a towel and reef shoes if you want to swim or scramble on the rocks. The sea can get rough with strong currents, so only enter when calm; it makes a nice quick photo stop or a refreshing dip, best early morning or late afternoon for calmer conditions and better light, and easy to combine with a nearby viewpoint or short levada walk.