São Miguel, the largest of the Azores islands, is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. As you explore the island, you’ll discover that the beaches in the Azores, particularly those on São Miguel Island, offer a unique and captivating experience. From the black volcanic sands to the crystal-clear waters, each beach has its own character and charm.
This Azores guide will take you on a journey to the most stunning beaches on the island, from the popular Caloura Beach to secluded spots on the north side of the island. So pack your bags, book your Azores Airlines flight, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the Azores that will leave you longing to visit again and again.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in São Miguel Island 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: White Exclusive Suites & Villas
- ✨ 5-Star: OCTANT Ponta Delgada
- 🏨 4-Star: Mosteiros Place
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Brava
- 💸 Cheap: Casa do Campo II
- 🏢 Apartment: Quinta das Rosas Villas
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Herdade do Ananás
- 🏩 For Couples: Volcanic Charming House
1. 🌞 Top 10 Beaches of Sao Miguel
🏄♂️ Praia de Santa Bárbara – Best Azores Beach For Surfing Adventures
Santa Bárbara Beach is a stunning stretch of black sand flanked by towering cliffs. It’s a prime spot for surfing, with consistent waves that attract both beginners and pros. The beach is equipped with excellent facilities, including lifeguards, showers, and a laid-back beach bar. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the expansive shoreline or simply relax and soak up the sun. The dramatic landscape and azure waters create a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable beach days. Santa Bárbara is easily accessible and offers ample parking, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Best Hotels Near Praia de Santa Bárbara 🏨
- Hotel Verde Mar & Spa – This 4-star hotel offers stunning views of Praia de Santa Bárbara, one of the best surfing beaches on São Miguel Island. It features a spa, outdoor pool, and rooms with ocean views. The hotel’s location makes it perfect for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts visiting the Azores.
- Quinta das Rosas Villas – These charming villas are located near Praia de Santa Bárbara, offering a peaceful retreat with garden views. Each villa has a private pool and is fully equipped for a comfortable stay. The property’s proximity to the beach makes it ideal for families looking to enjoy São Miguel’s natural beauty.
- Volcanic Charming House – This boutique guesthouse offers a unique stay in a renovated volcanic stone house near Praia de Santa Bárbara. It features stylish rooms and a garden with mountain views. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the charming town of Ribeira Grande.
🌅 Praia dos Mosteiros – Best For Stunning Views
Mosteiros Beach is a hidden gem on São Miguel’s western coast, known for its incredible sunset views. The black sand beach is nestled between rugged volcanic cliffs and features striking rock formations rising from the sea. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, with a tranquil atmosphere that invites relaxation. Visitors can explore the unique volcanic landscape, including natural pools and caves carved into the cliffs. The beach is less crowded than some of the island’s more popular spots, offering a peaceful escape. Don’t forget to stick around for the mesmerizing sunset that paints the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors.
Best Hotels Near Praia dos Mosteiros 🏨
- Mosteiros Place – This aparthotel offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Praia dos Mosteiros. It features an outdoor pool and is perfect for watching the famous Mosteiros sunset. The hotel’s location on the western tip of São Miguel makes it ideal for exploring nearby attractions like Sete Cidades.
- Casa dos Mosteiros – This cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of Mosteiros, just a short walk from Praia dos Mosteiros. It offers comfortable rooms and a shared lounge area. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to the black sand beach and natural pools of Mosteiros.
- Casa da Eira – This traditional Azorean house offers a homely stay near Praia dos Mosteiros. It features a garden and terrace with sea views. The property’s location allows guests to easily explore the western part of São Miguel Island and enjoy spectacular sunsets at the beach.
🌿 Praia dos Moinhos – Best Sandy Beach For Tranquil Seclusion
Moinhos Beach is a small, secluded cove that feels like a private paradise. Surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs, the beach offers a sense of tranquility and isolation. The dark sand and crystal-clear waters create a stunning contrast, inviting visitors to take a refreshing dip. The beach is named after the old water mills that once operated in the area, adding a touch of history to the natural beauty. While the beach is less developed than others, it’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, intimate spot to unwind. Pack a picnic and spend the day lounging on the sand, listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Best Hotels Near Praia dos Moinhos 🏨
- The Handmade House Azores – This unique guesthouse offers a charming stay near Praia dos Moinhos, one of São Miguel’s most picturesque beaches. It features handcrafted decor and a garden with mountain views. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to the beach and nearby tea plantations.
- Casa da Praia – This beachfront house offers direct access to Praia dos Moinhos. It features a terrace with stunning sea views and is fully equipped for a comfortable stay. The property’s location makes it perfect for beach lovers looking for a quiet getaway on São Miguel Island.
- Ribeirinha House – This holiday home is located in Ribeira Grande, a short drive from Praia dos Moinhos. It offers comfortable accommodations with a garden and terrace. The house’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the attractions of Ribeira Grande.
👨👩👧👦 Praia de Água d’Alto – Best For Family Fun in the Sun
Água d’Alto Beach is a spacious, golden sand beach that’s perfect for families. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for swimming and splashing around, while the soft sand is great for building sandcastles. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a beachside restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe environment for all. The beach is easily accessible, with plenty of parking available. Families can spend the day playing in the sand, swimming in the clear waters, and enjoying quality time together in a stunning natural setting.
Best Hotels Near Praia de Água d’Alto 🏨
- Bahia Palace Hotel – This 4-star hotel offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and is just a short drive from Praia de Água d’Alto. It features an outdoor pool, spa, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s location in Vila Franca do Campo makes it an excellent base for exploring the southern coast of São Miguel.
- Hotel Brava – This modern hotel is situated near Praia de Água d’Alto, offering comfortable rooms with sea views. It features a rooftop terrace and is close to Vila Franca do Campo’s attractions. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and boat trips to Ilhéu de Vila Franca.
- Casa do Campo II – This holiday home offers a peaceful stay near Praia de Água d’Alto. It features a garden, terrace, and fully equipped kitchen. The property’s location allows guests to easily explore the southern coast of São Miguel and enjoy the nearby beach.
🌴 Praia do Pópulo – Best For Coastal Convenience
Pópulo Beach is a convenient escape just minutes from Ponta Delgada, the island’s capital city. The dark sand beach is framed by a seafront promenade, lined with palm trees and colorful flowers. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The beach has a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists alike flocking to its shores. Several beachside cafes and restaurants offer refreshments and delicious meals, making it easy to spend the entire day here. Pópulo Beach is easily accessible by car or on foot, making it a great option for those staying in Ponta Delgada.
Best Hotels Near Praia do Pópulo 🏨
- Octant Ponta Delgada – This 5-star hotel is located just outside Ponta Delgada, a short drive from Praia do Pópulo. It features a spa, multiple pools, and rooms with ocean views. The hotel’s luxurious amenities and proximity to the beach make it perfect for a high-end Azores getaway.
- White Exclusive Suites & Villas – This boutique hotel offers stunning views of the Atlantic and is close to Praia do Pópulo. It features an infinity pool, restaurant, and stylish suites. The hotel’s clifftop location provides breathtaking views and easy access to nearby beaches.
- Quinta da Abelheira – This charming guesthouse is situated in a historic manor house near Praia do Pópulo. It offers comfortable rooms and beautiful gardens. The property’s location provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to the beach and Ponta Delgada’s attractions.
♨️ Praia do Fogo – Best For Geothermal Volcanic Relaxation
Fogo Beach is a unique destination, thanks to the warm thermal waters that flow into the sea. The beach is located near Ribeira Quente, a charming fishing village, and is surrounded by lush vegetation and steep cliffs. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the naturally heated waters, which are said to have therapeutic properties. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, with calm, crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make Fogo Beach a great spot for unwinding and recharging. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind beach.
Best Hotels Near Praia do Fogo 🏨
- House Garjau – This charming guesthouse is located in Ribeira Quente, just a short drive from Praia do Fogo. It offers comfortable rooms and a shared lounge area. The property’s proximity to the hot springs and volcanic landscapes makes it an ideal base for exploring the unique natural wonders of São Miguel Island.
- Avó da Rosa – Situated in Ribeira Quente, this cozy guesthouse is close to Praia do Fogo and offers a homely atmosphere. It features a garden and terrace with beautiful views. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the nearby Furnas hot springs.
- Casa de Pedra – This traditional stone house is located in Ribeira Quente, near Praia do Fogo. It offers a unique stay in a restored Portuguese home. The property’s rustic charm and proximity to the beach make it perfect for those seeking an authentic Azorean experience.
🌊 Praia da Viola – Best For Secluded Snorkeling
Viola Beach is a secluded gem, tucked away in a rocky cove on São Miguel’s north coast. The small, pebble beach is accessed via a hiking trail, rewarding adventurers with a private slice of paradise. The clear, turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling, with an abundance of marine life to discover. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs covered in lush vegetation, creating a sense of seclusion and tranquility. Visitors can spend the day swimming, exploring the rocky coastline, and soaking up the sun in this hidden haven. Due to its remote location, Viola Beach is rarely crowded, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
Best Hotels Near Praia da Viola 🏨
- Solar Lalém – This elegant hotel is situated in Fenais da Ajuda, a short drive from Praia da Viola. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s location provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and São Jorge Island.
- Mar de Prata – Located in Maia, this guesthouse offers easy access to Praia da Viola. It features rooms with sea views and a shared kitchen. The property’s proximity to the beach and local hiking trails makes it ideal for nature lovers.
- Cantinho do Sonho – This cozy apartment is situated in Maia, close to Praia da Viola. It offers a comfortable stay with a fully equipped kitchen. The property’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and the picturesque town of Maia.
🌿 Praia do Lombo Gordo – Best For Unspoiled Natural Beauty
Lombo Gordo Beach is a wild, unspoiled stretch of sand on São Miguel’s east coast. The beach is accessed via a steep, winding road, rewarding those who make the effort with a pristine, untouched landscape. The golden sand is backed by towering cliffs covered in dense vegetation, creating a sense of seclusion and natural beauty. The clear, blue waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with a variety of marine life to discover. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the sand, exploring the rugged coastline, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Lombo Gordo Beach is a true escape from the crowds, offering a chance to connect with nature in its purest form.
Best Hotels Near Praia do Lombo Gordo 🏨
- Aldeia do Priolo – This eco-friendly resort is located in Nordeste, offering easy access to Praia do Lombo Gordo. It features sustainable bungalows and a focus on nature conservation. The resort’s unique concept and proximity to one of São Miguel’s most secluded beaches make it perfect for eco-conscious travelers.
- Casa Vista da Marquesa – Situated in Nordeste, this holiday home offers stunning views and is a short drive from Praia do Lombo Gordo. It features a garden and terrace. The property’s location in the less touristy part of São Miguel provides a peaceful retreat.
- Casa do Simão – This traditional Azorean house is located in Nordeste, near Praia do Lombo Gordo. It offers a comfortable stay with a fully equipped kitchen. The property’s authentic charm and proximity to the rugged eastern coastline of São Miguel make it ideal for those seeking a unique island experience.
🌞 Praia de São Roque – Best For Peaceful Sunbathing
São Roque Beach is a small, sheltered cove just a short drive from Ponta Delgada. The beach is known for its calm, clear waters and soft, golden sand, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a picturesque setting. Visitors can relax on the sand, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or explore the nearby tide pools during low tide. São Roque Beach is easily accessible, with parking available nearby. It’s a great option for those seeking a peaceful, serene spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of São Miguel’s coastline.
Best Hotels Near Praia de São Roque 🏨
- Aqua Pópulo – This modern hotel is located in Ponta Delgada, close to Praia de São Roque. It features an outdoor pool and rooms with ocean views. The hotel’s proximity to both the beach and Ponta Delgada’s attractions makes it an excellent base for exploring São Miguel.
- Senhora da Rosa, Tradition & Nature Hotel – This luxurious hotel offers a blend of tradition and modern comfort near Praia de São Roque. It features a spa, outdoor pool, and beautiful gardens. The hotel’s elegant design and proximity to the beach provide a perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.
- Herdade do Ananás – This unique hotel is set on a pineapple plantation near Praia de São Roque. It offers rooms with views of the pineapple greenhouses and a pool. The hotel’s one-of-a-kind concept allows guests to experience São Miguel’s agricultural heritage while enjoying easy access to the beach.
🏄♀️ Praia das Milícias – Best For Beginner-Friendly Surfing
Milícias Beach is a popular surf spot located just east of Ponta Delgada. The beach features consistent waves that attract surfers of all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The dark sand and rugged coastline create a dramatic backdrop for catching waves. The beach is equipped with amenities such as lifeguards, showers, and a playground, making it a great option for families as well. Visitors can take surf lessons from one of the local schools or simply watch the action from the shore. Milícias Beach is easily accessible, with parking available nearby. Whether you’re a surfer or just looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere, Milícias Beach is a must-visit destination on São Miguel.
Best Hotels Near Praia das Milícias 🏨
- Quinta de Santa Clara – This charming guesthouse is located in a historic manor house near Praia das Milícias. It offers elegant rooms and beautiful gardens. The property’s blend of history and comfort, combined with its proximity to the beach, makes it ideal for a romantic getaway.
- Aparthotel Barracuda – This aparthotel is situated close to Praia das Milícias, offering comfortable apartments with sea views. It features an outdoor pool and is just steps away from the black sand beach. The property’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Ponta Delgada’s attractions.
- Casa do Pópulo – This cozy guesthouse is located near Praia das Milícias, offering a homely atmosphere close to the beach. It features a garden and terrace with sea views. The guesthouse’s proximity to the beach and local restaurants makes it perfect for a relaxed beach holiday on São Miguel Island.
2. ⏳ When to Visit São Miguel’s Beaches
☀️ Best Time for Warm Weather
Summer (July-August): This is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days perfect for beach activities. Praia de Santa Bárbara, Praia dos Mosteiros, and Praia do Pópulo are popular spots during this time. The island comes alive with festivals and events, making it a lively and vibrant place to be. However, it’s also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
🌞 Shoulder Season Delights
June and September: These months offer a great balance of pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Praia dos Moinhos, Praia do Fogo, and Praia da Viola are ideal for those seeking a more relaxed beach experience. The temperatures are still warm, but the atmosphere is more laid-back, making it easier to find secluded spots.
🌊 Off-Season Charm
October-May: While the weather is cooler, the off-season has its own charm. Praia do Lombo Gordo and Praia de São Roque are less crowded, offering a peaceful escape. This is also a great time to explore the island’s hot springs, like those at Ponta da Ferraria, which are even more enjoyable in the cooler months.
📅 Insider Tip: Avoiding Crowds
If you’re planning to visit during the summer, book your accommodations well in advance. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the shoulder or off-season. This way, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of São Miguel without the crowds.
3. 🚌 How to Get to São Miguel’s Beaches
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom: Renting a car is the best way to explore São Miguel’s beaches at your own pace. It gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems and lesser-known spots off the beaten path. You can easily rent a car at the airport or in Ponta Delgada.
🚌 Public Transportation on a Budget: If you’re not comfortable driving, São Miguel has a reliable bus system connecting major towns and villages. While it may not be the fastest way to reach the beaches, it’s an affordable and convenient option for budget travelers.
🚍 Guided Tours for Relaxation: Many companies offer guided tours of São Miguel’s top attractions, including its beaches. This is a great option if you want to sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving. You can book tours through your hotel or local tour operators.
🚕 Taxis for Convenience: If you’re staying in Ponta Delgada, you’ll find plenty of taxis available to take you to nearby beaches like Praia do Pópulo or Praia das Milícias. Taxis are a convenient option if you’re not renting a car or using public transportation.
💰 Money Saver, Split the Cost: If you’re traveling with a group, consider splitting the cost of a rental car or taxi. This can be more affordable than taking public transportation, especially if you plan on visiting multiple beaches in one day.
4. 🌟 Beach Facilities and Amenities
🏖️ Popular Beach Facilities: Many of São Miguel’s popular beaches, such as Praia de Santa Bárbara and Praia do Pópulo, offer excellent facilities. These include changing rooms, toilets, showers, and lifeguards during the high season. Parking areas are also available nearby, making it easy to access these beaches.
🌴 Azorean Beach Amenities: The beaches on São Miguel, an island in the Azores archipelago, are well-equipped to cater to various needs. Praia de Água d’Alto, for example, has a beachside restaurant and amenities like restrooms and showers. This makes it a great spot for families and those looking for a comfortable beach experience.
🏞️ Small Beach Charm: Smaller beaches like Praia dos Moinhos in Porto Formoso offer a more secluded and intimate experience. While they may not have as many facilities, they provide a peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. These beaches are perfect for those seeking a quiet spot to bathe and relax.
🌅 Watch the Sunset: For a memorable sunset experience, head to Praia dos Mosteiros. This beach on the western tip of São Miguel offers breathtaking views of the sunset, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to watch the sunset over the ocean.
📸 Spot Azores: To ensure your beach time isn’t wasted, check the webcam feeds for the beaches you plan to visit. The Spot Azores website provides images of the beach, along with information on temperature, cloud cover, wind speed, and tide times.
5. 🗺️ Nearby Attractions and Activities
🌋 Twin Lakes Wonder: Just a short drive from some of the best São Miguel beaches, you’ll find the breathtaking Sete Cidades. This massive volcanic crater is home to twin lakes – one blue, one green – surrounded by lush forests. Rent a bike to explore the area and don’t miss the spectacular views from the Vista do Rei viewpoint.
🐳 Whale Watching: The Azores are one of the best whale watching spots in the world. Take a break from the volcanic sand beaches and head out to sea. You might spot sperm whales, fin whales, and even the occasional blue whale! Tours depart regularly from Ponta Delgada, offering an unforgettable marine adventure.
♨️ Furnas: Geothermal Wonders: Near Ribeira Quente Beach, you’ll find the town of Furnas. This geothermal wonderland is famous for its hot springs, fumaroles, and the unique cozido das Furnas – a meal cooked underground using volcanic heat. Take a dip in the iron-rich waters of Poça da Dona Beija for a truly relaxing experience.
🍵 Gorreana Tea Plantation: São Miguel is home to Europe’s only tea plantations. After relaxing at Ribeira Quente Beach, visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation. Tour the factory, learn about tea-making, and sample some of the finest Azorean tea. It’s a unique experience that combines agriculture and stunning island views.
🏙️ City Charms: After beach-hopping along the coast of São Miguel, explore the charming city of Ponta Delgada. Admire the black and white mosaic sidewalks, the iconic three-arched city gates, and the bustling marina. Don’t miss the Mercado da Graça for a taste of local life and fresh produce.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in São Miguel Island, Azores ❔
What is São Miguel Island known for?
São Miguel is known for its stunning natural beauty, including volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, hot springs, and lush green scenery. It’s often called “The Green Island” due to its verdant landscapes.
Which part of São Miguel is best?
The best part depends on personal preferences, but popular areas include:
- Sete Cidades for its twin lakes and scenic views
- Furnas for its hot springs and geothermal activity
- Ponta Delgada for its historic city center and amenities
What is the main town of São Miguel?
Ponta Delgada is the largest city and capital of São Miguel Island, as well as the administrative capital of the Azores region.
Can you swim in Sao Miguel?
Yes, you can swim in São Miguel. The island has numerous beaches, natural pools, and hot springs suitable for swimming. Popular swimming spots include Praia de Santa Bárbara, Praia do Pópulo, and the thermal pools in Furnas.
