First things first, anyone who tells you this island is a “well-kept secret” is straight up lying to your face. It’s one of the most captivating places you’ll ever see and is often regarded as one of the world’s best islands but not the most underrated. So, expect a decent number of tourists just like you! Anyways, despite this minor annoyance, I’m here to tell you that São Miguel Azores is a certified must-visit.
Keep reading to find out more about the best things to do in São Miguel Azores.
Things to Do in São Miguel Island
Plan your itinerary with our list of the ten best things to do in São Miguel Island.
1. Visit the Twin Lakes in Sete Cidades
Located on the west side of São Miguel Island, Laguna Sete Cidades is a blue and green twin lake. These crater lakes are among the destination’s most popular highlights.
2. Enjoy the Untouched Beauty of Lagoa do Fogo.
This crater lake is located in the very center of São Miguel, in the narrowest part of the island. It’s over 1800 feet above sea level, and here, you’ll find yourself above the tree line. From this vantage point, you get straddling views of the Atlantic Ocean.
3. Experience Lagoa das Furnas
Furnas Lake is a crater lake surrounded by lush greenery, hiking trails and a volcanic hot spring. The stunning lake is located on the east side of the island and is a must-see since it is in close proximity to other tourist attractions.
4. Rejuvenate at the Thermal Pools
Up next, we have a traveler-favourite! Thermal pools are often considered to be one of the best things to do on São Miguel Island, and it’s not hard to see why. The Terra Nostra hot springs is one of the island’s most popular highlights and is located within Parque Terra Nostra near Furnas. It is commonly known for the orange clay in the main swimming pool. Poca da Dona Beija, on the other hand, is much smaller in comparison and has pools of varying temperatures.
5. Hike Up to the Boca do Inferno Viewpoint
Make way for jaw-dropping 360 views overlooking the Lagoa do Canario and other lagoons below with a visit to Boca do Inferno.
6. Sete Cidades Village
This quaint town is undeniably enchanting; make sure it’s on your list of places to visit in Sete Cidades. It houses just over 1,000 people but grows during tourist season. Despite this impact, the rural way of life remains unchanged.
7. Make Your Way to the Road of Hydrangeas
While descending from the viewpoint into the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll come face to face with one of the Azores’ most captivating sights – a hydrangea-covered road.
8. Hit the Mosteiros Beach for some sun, sea, and sand!
This little fishing village on the island of São Miguel is the place to head to for the best sunset on the whole island! The sun gently sets in between its islets. It’s one of the most magical sights you’ll see in the Azores Islands. The black sand beach is truly heavenly.
9. Want to relax? Visit Ponta da Ferraria
Ponta da Ferraria is a spa bathing site with therapeutic hot water springs that have been popular among the locals since the 15th century, but the natural pool of Ferraria is different from all the other hot springs on São Miguel Island — it’s located in the ocean! Located on the southwest point of the island, just a short drive from Sete Cidades, Ponta da Ferraria is a totally unique bathing experience.
10. Step back in time with a visit to Caldeira Velha
Located halfway between the summit of Pico da Barrosa and the city of Ribeira Grande, these hot springs are set under a rainforest-like ravine with towering ferns, making for a very pre-historic feel.
11. What Else Does São Miguel Have to Offer?
São Miguel is the perfect place for nature lovers. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and cycling to swimming. One of the most popular things to do in São Miguel is to explore the many volcanic lakes and springs that are scattered throughout the island. The springs are especially beautiful, and the waters are filled with colorful fish.
For those interested in history and culture, there are several fascinating sites to explore. The old city of Ponta Delgada is a great place to start, with its cobblestone streets, grand churches, and quaint cafes. The Museu Carlos Machado is also worth a visit, with its collection of Azorean artifacts, art, and manuscripts.
For food lovers, São Miguel is a paradise. The local cuisine is a fusion of Portuguese, Brazilian, and Azorean flavors, and there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional dishes. Seafood is especially popular, and the island is known for its fresh fish.
No matter what your interests are, São Miguel has something for you. Whether it’s exploring the island’s natural beauty, immersing yourself in culture, or indulging in delicious food, this is the perfect place to explore and relax. What more could you want?
Frequently Asked Questions About São Miguel Island
1. Why should I visit São Miguel?
If you’re looking for a unique travel destination, look no further than São Miguel, the largest of the Azores Islands. Located in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, the island is an oasis of natural beauty, with lush forests and stunning coastline views.
2. How many days do you need in São Miguel Azores?
Seven to eight days is the ideal amount of time to explore São Miguel Island. It gives you enough breathing time, and you can explore the island at your own pace. Anything less than this timeframe is going to make your vacation feel cramped up and rushed, which is not how this experience should go because São Miguel is all about letting you relax.
3. What is São Miguel known for?
In case you didn’t know, in addition to being a popular tourist attraction, São Miguel is also a producer of Pineapples and other fruits, tea, tobacco, meat, cereals, wine, and dairy products.
But you weren’t asking about that, were you?
No. You want to know what São Miguel is known for among travelers.
São Miguel is for people who appreciate nature at its most Jurassic and surreal (and for anyone who owns a pair of hiking boots, to be honest). The lagoons and mountainsides are wildly surreal.
4. What is the prettiest town in São Miguel?
Ponta Delgada is the largest and most popular town on the island, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s extremely charming and a bustling spot full of restaurants & shops for tourists.
Best Time to Visit – Ponta Delgada is a popular destination to visit all year round. However, May to July is the perfect time due to climate, cost of travel and accommodation and avoiding large crowds of tourists.
Places to see in Ponta Delgada
- Portas da Cidade & Goncalo Velho Cabral Square
- Largos da Matriz & Sao Sebastiao Church
- Fort of Sao Bras
- Palace of Sant’Ana
- Jose do Canto Botanical Garden
5. Can you get around São Miguel Azores without a car?
I highly recommend you rent your car as soon as you book your flights. We don’t want anyone to end up with no way of transportation, now do we?
But, hey, if all the rentals are sold out or renting a car just isn’t in your budget, you can always survive with the island’s public transportation and other alternative methods.
Here’s what you should know!
- São Miguel has a good bus service to most parts of the island.
- If public transportation is your only choice, you should stay in Ponta Delgada.
- There are a few taxis on each island – they are regulated, and you pay the same rate as everyone.
- The islands are quite hilly, so cycling isn’t recommended, but it’s not impossible.
- Locals are friendly, and crime-related fears are low, meaning hitchhiking is an option.
6. What’s the best time to visit São Miguel?
For many travelers, July and August seem to be stand-out months to visit São Miguel Island. Both months are warm and considered to be the most popular time to visit the destination.
In Conclusion…
If you’re interested in booking a trip to this breathtaking island, feel free to get in touch with us at Travel Centre US! Our vacation specialists would be more than happy to help you plan a tropical getaway to São Miguel island. All you have to do is let us know!
