Explore São Miguel: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to The Azores

São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture lovers. Known as the “Green Island” for its lush landscapes, São Miguel offers a mix of volcanic scenery, pristine lakes, hot springs, and charming towns. This guide will cover everything you need to know about visiting São Miguel, including how to get there, top attractions, surfing spots, nightlife, travel tips, and a detailed 3-day itinerary.

How to Get to São Miguel

Getting to São Miguel is straightforward, with Ponta Delgada’s João Paulo II Airport (PDL) serving as the main gateway. SATA Air Açores and Azores Airlines provide direct flights from major European cities such as Lisbon, Porto, London, and Paris. There are also direct flights from North American cities like Boston and Toronto. Once you arrive, renting a car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.

Understanding São Miguel

The island has many micro climates, so you may experience shifts in weather depending where you are. It’s all part of the fun. 

São Miguel offers diverse regions each with unique attractions, from the bustling city of Ponta Delgada to the serene and picturesque Nordeste. For surfing, Ribeira Grande is the ideal location, offering the best beaches and facilities. Families with children can enjoy a range of activities, from educational tours and nature walks to swimming in thermal pools and visiting aquariums, ensuring an unforgettable trip to the island.

Ponta Delgada – The vibrant hub

Ponta Delgada, the capital city of São Miguel and the Azores archipelago, is a vibrant and bustling hub that blends historical charm with modern amenities. The city is renowned for its iconic Portas da Cidade (City Gates), the lively Mercado da Graça market where you can sample local produce, and the impressive Church of São Sebastião.

Visitors can also explore the fascinating Carlos Machado Museum, which offers insights into the island’s history and culture. Whale watching tours and coastal excursions also start from here, providing thrilling adventures for all ages.

Must-see spots: Portas da Cidade, Mercado da Graça, Church of São Sebastião, Carlos Machado Museum, and the Ponta Delgada Marina.

Ribeira Grande: The surfers haven

Situated on the northern coast of São Miguel, Ribeira Grande is a charming town known for its rich history and excellent surfing spots. The town’s colonial architecture, including the impressive Church of Nossa Senhora da Estrela, adds to its historical allure.

Ribeira Grande is particularly famous for Santa Bárbara Beach, which hosts international surfing competitions and offers powerful waves that attract surfers from around the world. Nearby, the stunning Caldeira Velha hot springs and the pristine Lagoa do Fogo crater lake provide beautiful natural settings for hiking and relaxation.

Must-see spots: Santa Bárbara Beach, Caldeira Velha, Lagoa do Fogo, and the Church of Nossa Senhora da Estrela.

Furnas: The volcanic thermal retreat

Located in the eastern part of São Miguel, Furnas is a must-visit destination renowned for its geothermal activity and lush greenery. The area is home to the enchanting Terra Nostra Gardens, which boast a large thermal pool surrounded by exotic plants and trees. Visitors can experience the unique geothermal cooking method of the local Cozido das Furnas stew, which is slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat.
The picturesque Furnas Lake, with its fumaroles and hot springs, offers additional opportunities for soaking in warm waters and enjoying the natural beauty.

Must-see spots: Terra Nostra Gardens, Furnas Lake, hot springs and fumaroles, and the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.

Vila Franca do Nordeste: Home to the famous volcanic lagoon

As the former capital of São Miguel, Vila Franca do Campo is steeped in history and culture. Located on the southern coast, this charming town is known for the nearby Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, a volcanic islet with a natural lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

The town’s historic sites, such as the Our Lady of Peace Chapel and the local pottery shops, offer insights into its rich cultural heritage. Boat trips to the islet provide a unique adventure, while the town’s beaches offer ample opportunities for relaxation and family-friendly activities.

Must-see spots: Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, Our Lady of Peace Chapel, and the local pottery shops.

Nordeste: Most scenic area

The picturesque Nordeste region, located in the northeastern part of São Miguel, is often considered one of the island’s most scenic and tranquil areas. Known for its dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and quaint villages, Nordeste offers a peaceful retreat from the more touristy parts of the island.

The Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint provides breathtaking views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean, while the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall and Serra da Tronqueira are ideal for nature walks and hiking.

Nordeste is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the island’s serene beauty.

Must-see spots: Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint, Salto do Cabrito Waterfall, Serra da Tronqueira, and the Arnel Lighthouse.

Things to do in São Miguel

Always have a rain jacket on hand. It’s true what the Azoreans say: there can be four seasons in one day.

Nature Activities

Furnas Valley: Experience geothermal wonders, including hot springs, fumaroles, and the Terra Nostra Gardens, where you can take a dip in the thermal pool.
Lagoa do Fogo: Hike to the serene Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake surrounded by pristine nature and offering breathtaking views.
Tea Plantations: Tour the only tea plantations in Europe at Gorreana and Porto Formoso, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy free tastings.
Ponta da Ferraria: Relax in natural oceanic hot springs heated by volcanic activity, located in a stunning coastal setting.

Beach Activities

São Miguel boasts a variety of beautiful beaches, each with its unique charm:

Praia do Populo is located near Ponta Delgada and is ideal for families and casual beachgoers. It has calm waters and a family-friendly atmosphere. Santa Bárbara Beach is known for its surfing conditions, offering beautiful views and a lively atmosphere. Mosteiros Beach is famous for its dramatic volcanic rock formations and strong waves. This is a powerful surf spot. Praia de Relva is a more secluded beach offering stunning views and a peaceful environment to relax away from the crowds.

Surf Activities

Santa Bárbara Beach, located in Ribeira Grande, is the island’s most popular surf spot, known for its consistent and powerful waves, making it a favorite among both local and international surfers. Monte Verde Beach, also in Ribeira Grande, provides a slightly more relaxed surfing experience with good waves suitable for various skill levels. Praia do Populo, near Ponta Delgada, is a family-friendly beach with decent surfing conditions and a welcoming atmosphere for beginners. Lastly, Mosteiros Beach stands out for its dramatic volcanic rock formations and challenging surf, attracting more experienced surfers looking for a unique and adventurous surf experience. Each of these beaches offers something special, catering to different preferences and skill levels, ensuring that surfers of all types can find their perfect wave on São Miguel.

Try the bacalhao a bras (a cod dish). 

Viewpoints

São Miguel is renowned for its breathtaking viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the island’s stunning landscapes. Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, located in the Nordeste region, provides awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline and lush greenery, making it a favorite spot for its serene and picturesque scenery. Miradouro da Vista dos Barcos offers a dramatic perspective of the island’s rugged cliffs and the ocean, enhancing its appeal with its striking natural beauty.

Miradouro da Despe-te que Suas is a lesser-known gem that delivers spectacular vistas of the island’s verdant hills and valleys, providing a tranquil setting for nature lovers. The Miradouro do Adro da Igreja is a charming viewpoint situated next to a traditional church, offering a serene view of the surrounding countryside and village life. Miradouro do Salto da Farinha provides a unique vantage point overlooking the dense forest and waterfalls, ideal for capturing the essence of São Miguel’s natural splendor.

Lastly, Miradouro de Santa Iria boasts sweeping views of the northern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for appreciating the island’s dramatic cliffs and tranquil waters. Each viewpoint on São Miguel offers its own unique perspective of the island’s diverse and captivating landscapes.

Kid Friendly Activities

São Miguel is an excellent destination for families with children, offering a variety of engaging and enjoyable activities. In Ponta Delgada, kids can explore the fascinating aquarium, where they can learn about local marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.

A visit to the Terra Nostra Gardens in Furnas provides an opportunity for children to swim in the large thermal pool and wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, making for a fun and educational outing.

For a thrilling experience, whale and dolphin watching tours departing from Ponta Delgada offer the chance to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, capturing the imagination of young adventurers.

Additionally, a trip to the pineapple plantations near Ponta Delgada allows children to see how pineapples are grown in greenhouses, adding an educational twist to the visit.

Family-friendly beaches like Praia do Populo are perfect for swimming and playing in the sand, providing a safe and entertaining environment for children.

Lastly, easy hiking trails around Sete Cidades offer a gentle introduction to the island’s natural beauty, ideal for family walks and exploration. These diverse activities ensure that children have a memorable and enjoyable experience on São Miguel.

Where to stay in São Miguel

Aim for June or September to avoid the crowds and higher prices during the season.

São Miguel is home to several top-notch hotels that offer a range of luxurious and memorable experiences. Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort stands out for its eco-friendly design and stunning oceanfront location on Santa Bárbara Beach, providing direct beach access and modern amenities.

Azores Palace Hotel, located in Ponta Delgada, combines historic charm with elegance, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and a large outdoor pool.

In Furnas, Terra Nostra Garden Hotel offers a unique experience with its access to the renowned Terra Nostra Gardens and natural thermal pools.

Sensi Azores Nature and Spa, near Ponta Delgada, emphasizes relaxation with its full-service spa and serene natural surroundings.

Hotel do Colégio, a boutique hotel in Ponta Delgada, blends historic architecture with modern comfort in a central location.

Additionally, Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa in Ribeira Grande provides a luxurious cliffside retreat with panoramic ocean views, an infinity pool, and a top-rated spa. Each of these hotels offers a distinctive experience, ensuring that visitors to São Miguel can find the perfect accommodation to suit their preferences and needs.

Final Words

São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and adventure. From the stunning volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo to the serene hot springs of Furnas and the dramatic coastal vistas from its numerous viewpoints, the island captivates with its diverse scenery. Whether you’re exploring the surf-friendly shores of Santa Bárbara Beach, indulging in relaxation at luxurious resorts like Pedras do Mar, or immersing yourself in the island’s vibrant local culture and cuisine, São Miguel promises a truly memorable experience. With its family-friendly attractions, breathtaking landscapes, and top-tier accommodations, São Miguel stands out as a captivating destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a uniquely beautiful setting.