Discover the Magic of São Miguel Island
Explore Hot Springs
São Miguel is known for its geothermal activity. Visit the famous Terra Nostra Park in Furnas or all the other natural hot springs and mineral baths.
These Azores hot springs & thermal baths give visitors the opportunity to enjoy a natural outdoor hot tub experience.
Right on the western tip of the island, you will find the most unique feature of the Azores. At Ponta da Ferraria you will find a natural hot spring located in the ocean itself.
Caldeira Velha, Parque Terra Nostra and Poca da Dona Beija all offer hot springs with 35-40 Celsius (95-104 F).
As it is the best to swim in hot water when it’s cold outside, let’s choose the cloudiest day to enjoy hot springs.
Whale Watching
The Azores are one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can take a boat tour to see various species of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The tours are strictly regulated to ensure minimal impact on the environment, the excursions prioritize the well-being of whales, dolphins, and marine life. In the waters surrounding São Miguel, whale watchers are treated to sightings of several fascinating marine species.
Commonly encountered whales include the graceful Sperm Whales and the energetic Common Dolphins, and the strikingly beautiful Bottlenose Dolphins are also frequently spotted playing in the Atlantic waves. Additionally, lucky observers may catch a glimpse of majestic Loggerhead Turtles gracefully navigating the azure waters.
Hiking and Exploring Trails
Embark on a year-round hiking adventure in São Miguel, where the island’s diverse landscapes unfold beneath your feet. Wander through lush forests, traverse across volcanic terrain, and ascend to breathtaking viewpoints, all the while being surrounded by the iconic bloom of hydrangeas. With trails catering to all skill levels, immerse yourself in the Azorean wilderness and let each step reveal the natural wonders of São Miguel at your own pace.
Embark on a self-guided hiking adventure through São Miguel’s most popular trails and viewpoints. Marvel at the breathtaking Sete Cidades Crater Rim, explore the enchanting Faial da Terra – Salto do Prego, and conquer the panoramic heights of Pico da Vara. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Azores, where each trail promises a unique exploration of lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.
Explore the Tea Plantations
São Miguel proudly hosts the exclusive distinction of housing Europe’s only tea plantations. Take a captivating journey to the renowned Gorreana Tea Plantation, where the secrets of tea production unfold amidst the picturesque landscape. Engage in an immersive experience as you delve into the art and intricacies of tea cultivation, guided by the plantation’s rich history, and savor the delightful culmination by sampling a selection of freshly brewed teas, creating a sensory voyage that resonates with the uniqueness of São Miguel.
Visit Lagoa do Fogo
Nestled within São Miguel’s captivating landscapes, the Lagoa do Fogo stands as a testament to the island’s natural splendor. This stunning crater lake, renowned for its pristine beauty, emerges as one of the most picturesque spots, inviting exploration and admiration alike. Embark on a journey of discovery as you choose to trek to the panoramic viewpoint, where every step reveals the breathtaking panorama of the azure lake cradled within the volcanic caldera. Alternatively, relish the tranquility from afar by absorbing the breathtaking scenery from the Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo, an elevated vantage point that frames the lake against the backdrop of São Miguel’s lush greenery, offering an unforgettable vista that captures the essence of the Azores’ unspoiled charm.
Surfing
Catch the awesome surf vibes in São Miguel, where the waves are both thrilling and forgiving, making it an ideal spot for surfers of all levels.
Praia de Santa Bárbara: Ideal for experienced surfers, this north coast beach provides consistent waves and a stunning backdrop.
Praia das Milícias: A popular spot for surfers of all levels, with consistent waves and a lively atmosphere.
Praia do Populo: A versatile beach catering to surfers of all abilities, known for its reliable waves and surf school facilities.
The other options, like Praia do Monte Verde, Praia dos Moinhos, Praia do Lombo Gordo, Praia do Fogo or Praia Formosa, all offer unique opportunities to test your skills.
Visit Furnas
Situated in the verdant eastern region of São Miguel, Furnas emerges as a captivating enclave steeped in both geological marvels and cultural heritage. Its allure lies in the prominence of geothermal activity, where the town is adorned with enchanting hot springs and fumaroles, creating a landscape that seamlessly merges nature’s wonders with human existence.
Beyond its geothermal splendors, Furnas is a culinary haven, being the home of Cozido das Furnas. This traditional Azorean stew undergoes a unique cooking process, utilizing the natural heat emanating from the volcanic soil. The result is a distinct and flavorful local dish that has become a symbol of the town’s gastronomic identity. Visitors to Furnas not only witness the Earth’s dynamic forces at play, but also embark on a sensory journey, savoring the essence of the Azores through both its geology and gastronomy.
Visit Historic Towns
Ponta Delgada: São Miguel’s capital, Ponta Delgada, boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Once a crucial port for maritime trade, it now combines historic charm with modern allure.
Ribeira Grande: Founded in the early 16th century, Ribeira Grande is renowned for its colonial architecture and historical significance. This charming city served as a hub for sugar and orange exports during the Azores’ economic boom. Ribeira Grande hosts the unique Festa do Espírito Santo, a lively celebration deeply rooted in Azorean culture, featuring colorful processions and traditional feasts.
Rabo de Peixe: Translating to Fish Tail in Portuguese, Rabo de Peixe is a picturesque fishing village located on the northern coast of São Miguel. Historically reliant on fishing and agriculture, it retains a charming, traditional Azorean atmosphere. This little village has recently gained worldwide notoriety thanks to Netflix’s eponymous series.
Enjoy Beaches
Explore the diverse coastal delights of São Miguel’s beaches, where each shoreline unveils a unique facet of the island’s natural beauty with the black sands beaches. From Praia de Santa Bárbara to the thermal allure of Ponta da Ferraria, and the more relaxed Populo Beach, each beach offers a distinct experience.
For a secluded escape, venture to the picturesque Praia do Lombo Gordo, accessible only by foot, and discover the tranquility of its untouched beauty. Dive into the refreshing waters of Ribeira Quente, known for its water springs that add an extra element of natural charm to your beach day.
São Miguel’s beaches beckon, promising a tapestry of coastal wonders for every type of explorer. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a connection with nature, the island’s diverse beaches invite you to indulge in the unique coastal allure of the Azores.
Diving and Snorkeling
Embark on an exhilarating underwater exploration of São Miguel, where the marine realm unfolds with diverse life, fascinating shipwrecks, and concealed underwater caves. Dive into history at the Ponta Delgada Harbour, discovering the awe-inspiring wreck of the ‘Dori,’ a monumental ship that played a crucial role in Operation Overlord, the largest military operation in world history. Resting less than 20 meters beneath the calm waters, this 130-meter-long Liberty Ship is one of over 2,750 built during World War II to aid the Allies.
Explore the depths surrounding the captivating Vila Franca islet, offering a unique aquatic landscape and a haven for diverse underwater species. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice eager to explore the ocean’s mysteries, São Miguel promises an unforgettable subaquatic adventure, unveiling the secrets of the Azores beneath the crystal-clear Atlantic waters.
GEOTurism
São Miguel Island, with its diverse and captivating geological features, offers a prime destination for geotourism enthusiasts. Explore the island’s volcanic landscapes, including the iconic Sete Cidades caldera and the stunning Lagoa do Fogo crater lake, which provide a visual feast for those interested in the Earth’s dynamic forces. Embark on guided tours to discover the Furnas Valley, where geothermal activity manifests in hot springs, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pools. Witness the transformative power of nature as you stroll through lush botanical gardens like Terra Nostra, where the hot springs create a unique microclimate supporting a variety of exotic plant species. For the adventurous, São Miguel’s rugged terrains invite exploration of volcanic caves and lava tubes, such as the Gruta do Carvão. These geological formations showcase the island’s volcanic history and provide a thrilling underground experience.
Try local Cuisine
Welcome to the Azores, where the culinary heritage is a celebration of flavors, sustainability, and the pristine beauty of the islands. Immerse yourself in the unique taste of Azorean cuisine, from the slow-cooked delights of “Cozido das Furnas” to the freshness of Atlantic seafood. Local commitment to sustainability also extends to farming practices, ensuring that every dish tells a story of ethical food consumption. Indulge in the exceptional cheeses and a wide range of milk products, a result of cows grazing year-round on green grass. Amidst it all, relish the clean, fresh Atlantic air, adding a touch of purity to your culinary journey. Join us, as every meal becomes a symphony of taste and a breath of the pure Azorean atmosphere.
Fishing
Embark on a personalized coastal adventure in São Miguel, where the exploration extends beyond fishing and limpet collecting to include the exhilarating option of spearfishing. Wander independently along the shoreline, discovering unique marine gastropods adhering to rocks, immersing yourself in a hands-on experience with the island’s coastal biodiversity. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of shore fishing, casting your line for substantial game like Blue Marlin, Tuna, and Wahoo, or the excitement of spearfishing, São Miguel invites you to craft your own seaside narrative. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of collecting limpets or the adrenaline of spearfishing, all against the stunning backdrop of the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Birdwatching
Internationally acclaimed as a haven for birdwatchers, the Azores offer a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of avian species. Positioned centrally in the North Atlantic Ocean, the archipelago becomes a refuge for migratory birds occasionally diverted by weather conditions. Seabird enthusiasts can witness nesting colonies of endemic species and subspecies, such as the Azores bullfinch and Monteiro’s storm petrel.
Among these captivating species, the Atlantic canary stands out as a unique presence in Macaronesia. Additionally, the Azores boast several endemic subspecies, including the Chaffinch, Goldcrest, Azores woodpigeon, and Common buzzard, each contributing to the archipelago’s rich avian tapestry.
Notably, the Azores host the world’s most significant nesting populations of Cory’s Shearwaters and Rosy Tern, further solidifying the archipelago’s status as a global sanctuary for birdlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Golfing
Elevate your golfing experience in the heart of the Azores on São Miguel Island. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of two exceptional courses, Batalha and Furnas, where every swing is framed by Atlantic vistas.
Batalha Golf Course, set against the backdrop of the Sete Cidades crater, offers a 27-hole masterpiece, challenging golfers of all levels amidst the tranquility of São Miguel’s western region.
Meanwhile, Furnas Golf Course, nestled in the island’s eastern volcanic terrain, presents an 18-hole haven, combining strategic design with captivating scenery for an unforgettable golfing escapade.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual enthusiast, São Miguel’s golf courses promise a harmonious blend of sport and nature, creating an unparalleled golfing adventure in this Atlantic paradise. Tee off in the Azores and let your golfing journey unfold.
Canyoning
Canyoning in São Miguel offers an exhilarating adventure, allowing you to explore the island’s dramatic landscapes in a unique and immersive way. Descend through lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic canyons, experiencing the thrill of rappelling down waterfalls and navigating through pristine natural gorges.
Led by experienced guides, São Miguel’s canyoning excursions cater to all levels of expertise, providing a safe yet adrenaline-pumping experience. Whether you’re a novice seeking an introduction to this exciting activity or an experienced canyoneer looking for new challenges, São Miguel’s diverse canyoning opportunities promise an unforgettable journey through the island’s untamed beauty. Prepare for an adventure that combines the elements of nature, adrenaline, and exploration, creating lasting memories in the heart of the Azores.
Talk to us
Have any questions? We are always open to talk about your holiday plans, new projects, creative opportunities and how we can help you.