The Azores, a stunning archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is home to some of the most captivating beaches in Europe. While not typically known as a beach destination, the islands of São Miguel, Santa Maria, and others offer a diverse range of coastal experiences that will surprise and delight visitors. From the black sandy beaches of São Miguel to the pristine white sands of Santa Maria, the Azores boasts a variety of stunning beaches that cater to every taste.
From popular spots like Praia de Santa Bárbara to hidden gems known only to locals, this article will help you discover the best beaches the Azores has to offer. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to explore the diverse and beautiful coastlines of this enchanting Portuguese archipelago.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in the Azores 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Verde Mar & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Pestana Grand Premium Ocean Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel do Canal
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Horta
- 💸 Cheap: ZigZag Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Casa da Lagoa
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Furnas Lake Villas
- 🏩 For Couples: Volcanic Charming House
1. ☀️ Top 10 Best Beaches in the Azores
🏖️ Praia de Santa Bárbara, São Miguel – Best for Surfing
Located on the north coast of São Miguel, Praia de Santa Bárbara is a surfer’s dream. With its long stretch of black sand and powerful waves, it’s a hotspot for surf enthusiasts. The beach hosts stages of the World Surf League, attracting pros and beginners alike. After catching waves, visitors can relax at TukaTulá Bar, enjoying ocean views and live music in summer. The wild beauty of this beach is captivating, but swimmers should pay attention to flag warnings. Its accessibility and facilities make it popular year-round.
Best Hotels Near Praia de Santa Bárbara 🏨
- Hotel Verde Mar & SPA – This 5-star hotel offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is just a short drive from Praia de Santa Bárbara, one of the top beaches in São Miguel. It features multiple pools, a spa, and elegant rooms with modern amenities. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the charming town of Ribeira Grande.
- Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort – Located right on Praia de Santa Bárbara, this eco-resort offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability. It features stylish villas with ocean views, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and direct beach access. The resort is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Azores.
- Volcanic Charming House – This charming guesthouse is situated near Praia de Santa Bárbara, offering a cozy and intimate stay. It features comfortable rooms, a garden, and is just a short drive from the beach. The guesthouse’s location provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to one of São Miguel’s best surf spots.
🌋 Praia dos Mosteiros, São Miguel – Best for Sunset Views
Praia dos Mosteiros, on São Miguel’s western tip, offers breathtaking sunset views over dramatic rock formations. This black sand beach is perfect for evening strolls and photography. Popular with locals, it gets busy on weekends during peak season. The beach has good facilities, including a bus stop and free parking nearby. For experienced surfers, it’s one of the best spots on the island to catch waves, though caution is needed due to rocks. The nearby town provides charming cafes and restaurants for post-beach relaxation.
Best Hotels Near Praia dos Mosteiros 🏨
- Mosteiros Place – This modern apartment complex is located in Mosteiros, just a short walk from Praia dos Mosteiros. It offers comfortable apartments with sea views and is an ideal place to watch the sunset over the iconic rock formations. The property’s location allows easy access to both the beach and the natural pools of Mosteiros.
- Casa dos Mosteiros – This traditional Azorean house offers a homely stay near Praia dos Mosteiros. It features cozy rooms and a terrace with panoramic ocean views. The guesthouse’s location in Mosteiros provides a perfect base for exploring the western part of São Miguel island.
- Casa da Ribeira Mosteiros – This charming holiday home is situated close to Praia dos Mosteiros, offering a comfortable and private stay. It features a fully equipped kitchen and a garden, perfect for families or groups. The house’s proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore this part of the island.
🏊♀️ Vila Franca do Campo Islet, São Miguel – Best for Snorkeling
This small islet off São Miguel’s coast forms a perfect natural swimming pool. It’s a unique spot combining beach relaxation with adventure. The islet is a nature reserve for birds in winter and a popular summer destination. From June to October, boats transport visitors to this volcanic crater turned swimming paradise. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and swimming. It’s advisable to arrive early, as there’s a daily limit on visitors to preserve the environment. The views of São Miguel from the islet are spectacular.
Best Hotels Near Vila Franca do Campo Islet 🏨
- Bahia Palace Hotel – This elegant hotel is located in Vila Franca do Campo, offering easy access to boat trips to the nearby islet. It features comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and an outdoor pool. The hotel’s central location makes it perfect for exploring the southern coast of São Miguel.
- A Villa by the Sea – This beautiful villa offers a luxurious stay near Vila Franca do Campo Islet. It features stunning sea views, a private pool, and direct access to a small beach. The villa’s location provides a perfect blend of privacy and proximity to local attractions.
- Olive Boutique Guesthouse – This charming guesthouse in Vila Franca do Campo offers a cozy stay close to the harbor where boats depart for the islet. It features stylishly decorated rooms and a shared lounge. The guesthouse’s central location allows easy access to local restaurants and the town’s attractions.
🐚 Praia Formosa, Santa Maria – Best for Family Beach Days
Praia Formosa on Santa Maria Island is one of the few golden sand beaches in the Azores. Its calm waters and excellent facilities make it perfect for families. The beach offers a more traditional beach experience compared to the volcanic beaches common in the archipelago. With its Blue Flag status, visitors can expect clean waters and good amenities. The surrounding area provides options for dining and accommodation. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports in a picturesque setting.
Best Hotels Near Praia Formosa 🏨
- Pestana Grand Premium Ocean Resort – While not in the Azores, this luxury resort in Madeira offers stunning views of the Atlantic and is close to Praia Formosa. It features multiple pools, a spa, and elegant rooms. The resort’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Funchal’s attractions.
- Golden Residence Hotel – This 4-star hotel in Madeira offers comfortable accommodations near Praia Formosa. It features a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and the amenities of Funchal.
- Vila Marta – This charming guesthouse in Funchal offers a cozy stay near Praia Formosa. It features comfortable rooms and a garden with sea views. The guesthouse’s location provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to the beach and city center.
🏄♀️ Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, São Jorge – Best for Adventure Seekers
This secluded beach on São Jorge Island is a bit of a trek to reach, but absolutely worth it. It’s not just a beach, but a whole ecosystem with a lagoon and world-class surfing opportunities. The journey to reach it, often involving hiking, adds to its allure. The beach is famous for its fresh clams and pristine environment. Surfers flock here for the consistent waves, while nature lovers appreciate its unspoiled beauty. The surrounding area offers stunning hiking trails and a sense of isolation rare in today’s world.
Best Hotels Near Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo 🏨
- Caldeira Guesthouse – This guesthouse on São Jorge Island offers a comfortable stay near Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. It features cozy rooms and a shared lounge with beautiful views. The guesthouse’s location provides a perfect base for hiking to the famous fajã.
- Kuanza Nature Experience – This unique eco-lodge offers a rustic stay in Fajã do Belo, providing easy access to Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. It features basic accommodations and stunning natural surroundings.
- Casa da Lagoa – This traditional house is located in Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo itself, offering a unique stay in this isolated paradise. It features basic amenities and unparalleled access to the lagoon and surrounding nature.
🌅 Praia do Porto Pim, Faial – Best for Cultural Beach Experience
Porto Pim on Faial Island offers a perfect blend of beach and culture. This crescent-shaped bay is surrounded by historic buildings and great restaurants. The beach is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for families and swimmers. Its location near Horta town provides easy access to amenities and cultural attractions. The beach has a rich history, mentioned even in Herman Melville’s “Moby Dick.” It’s a great spot for sunbathing, water sports, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Azorean beach town.
Best Hotels Near Praia do Porto Pim 🏨
- Faial Resort Hotel – This 4-star hotel offers stunning views of Pico Mountain and is just a short walk from Praia do Porto Pim, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Azores. It features an outdoor pool, tennis court, and is close to the marina where you can take boat trips to other islands.
- Hotel do Canal – Located in the heart of Horta, this hotel is within walking distance of Praia do Porto Pim and offers panoramic views of the marina and Pico Island. It’s an ideal base for exploring the island of Faial and taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Porto Pim.
- Casa da Baía Guest House – This charming guesthouse is situated near Praia do Porto Pim and offers comfortable rooms with sea views. It’s a great choice for those looking to explore the beaches of the Azores, with easy access to boat tours and whale watching excursions.
🏆 Praia da Vitória, Terceira – Best for Amenities and Activities
This Blue Flag beach on Terceira Island boasts excellent facilities and water quality. Located in Praia da Vitória town, it offers a perfect city beach experience. The long stretch of golden sand is ideal for sunbathing and beach sports. Its calm waters are great for swimming and various water activities. The beach is backed by a lively promenade with cafes and restaurants. Its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient stop even for those with limited time on the island. The beach hosts various events and festivals throughout the summer.
Best Hotels Near Praia da Vitória 🏨
- Hotel Praia Marina – Overlooking Praia da Vitória, this hotel offers direct access to the beach and is close to the town’s main attractions. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the island of Terceira and enjoy its beautiful beaches.
- Varandas do Atlântico – These apartments offer stunning sea views and are just steps away from Praia da Vitória. They provide a comfortable base for exploring the island and enjoying water activities at the nearby beach.
- ZigZag Hostel – This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Praia da Vitória, offering easy access to the beach and local attractions. It’s a great option for backpackers and budget travelers looking to explore the Azores.
🌄 Praia dos Moinhos, São Miguel – Best for Photography
Nestled between cliffs on São Miguel’s north coast, Praia dos Moinhos is a picturesque cove with a charming beach bar and crystal-clear waters. The beach gets its name (Beach of the Mills) from the old watermills in the area. Its black sand and pebbles are typical of Azorean volcanic beaches. The secluded location offers a more intimate beach experience. It’s an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunset. The beach bar serves local specialties, adding to the authentic Azorean experience. Access involves a steep descent, but the views and tranquility make it worthwhile.
Best Hotels Near Praia dos Moinhos 🏨
- The Handmade House Azores – This unique guesthouse is located on São Miguel island, a short drive from Praia dos Moinhos. It offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
- Ribeirinha House – Situated near Praia dos Moinhos, this holiday home offers a comfortable stay with stunning ocean views. It’s an ideal base for exploring São Miguel and enjoying its beautiful beaches.
- Casa da Avó Inês – This charming guesthouse is located in Ribeira Grande, close to Praia dos Moinhos. It offers a cozy atmosphere and is a great starting point for exploring the north coast of São Miguel.
🌋 Praia do Fogo, São Miguel – Best for Unique Swimming Experience
Praia do Fogo, or Fire Beach, is unique for its volcanic hot springs that heat the ocean water. Located in Ribeira Quente, this black sand beach offers a one-of-a-kind swimming experience. The mix of hot spring water and cool ocean creates interesting temperature variations. The beach is surrounded by lush green cliffs, adding to its dramatic beauty. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking therapeutic waters. The nearby village provides amenities and traditional Azorean cuisine. The beach’s volcanic nature makes it a geological wonder worth exploring.
Best Hotels Near Praia do Fogo 🏨
- Casa da Lomba do Cavaleiro – This holiday home is located near Praia do Fogo, known for its hot springs. It offers a unique experience of staying in a traditional Azorean house while being close to one of the island’s most unique beaches.
- Avó da Rosa – This guesthouse is situated in Ribeira Quente, close to Praia do Fogo. It provides a comfortable base for exploring the volcanic features of São Miguel, including the hot springs at Praia do Fogo.
- Furnas Lake Villas – These villas offer a luxurious stay near Furnas Lake, a short drive from Praia do Fogo. They provide an excellent base for exploring the volcanic wonders of São Miguel, including the hot springs at Praia do Fogo.
🏞️ Praia de São Lourenço, Santa Maria – Best for Scenic Beauty
Praia de São Lourenço on Santa Maria Island is known for its stunning semicircular bay and colorful landscape. The beach is flanked by vineyards that come down to meet the sea, creating a unique and beautiful setting. Its clear waters range from deep blue to emerald and turquoise. The bay’s shape protects it from winds, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. The surrounding area offers hiking trails with panoramic views. The beach is less crowded than some, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
Best Hotels Near Praia de São Lourenço 🏨
- Alojamentos ALO Baía São Lourenço – These apartments are located near Praia de São Lourenço on Santa Maria island, known for its unique reddish sand. They offer comfortable accommodations with easy access to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Azores.
- Casa da Fajãzinha – This holiday home is situated in Santa Bárbara, a short drive from Praia de São Lourenço. It offers a peaceful retreat with stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach.
- Casa da Bisa – Located on Santa Maria island, this guesthouse provides a cozy stay near Praia de São Lourenço. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the island’s unique landscapes and beautiful beaches.
2. 🌊 Best Beaches for Different Activities
🏄♂️ Surfing and Water Sports: For surf enthusiasts, Praia de Santa Bárbara on São Miguel Island is the top pick. It’s one of the best Azores beaches for surfing, offering consistent waves for beginners and pros alike. Visit in September or October for optimal surf conditions and fewer crowds. Paddleboarding is great at Praia Formosa on Santa Maria, while Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo on São Jorge is perfect for bodyboarding.
🏊♀️ Swimming and Snorkeling: The natural pools scattered across the Azores offer unparalleled swimming and snorkeling experiences. Vila Franca do Campo Islet, off São Miguel’s coast, is a standout with its crater-turned-natural-pool and incredibly clear waters. Bring your own snorkeling gear to save money, especially during peak season. These volcanic formations provide a unique aquatic playground, teeming with marine life and offering safe, sheltered areas for swimming.
📸 Scenic Beaches: For photography enthusiasts, Mosteiros Beach on São Miguel offers unparalleled beauty. It’s one of the most popular spots to watch and photograph the sunset, with dramatic rock formations creating stunning silhouettes. Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of waves crashing against rocks at sunset. The interplay of light, water, and volcanic formations makes this beach a photographer’s paradise throughout the day.
🌞 Sunbathing and Relaxation: For traditional beach relaxation, Praia Formosa on Santa Maria Island is the go-to spot. It’s one of the few white sand beaches in the Azores, offering a more familiar beach experience. The soft, golden sand is perfect for lounging, while calm waters invite leisurely swims. Beach bars serve refreshing drinks, and there’s plenty of space to spread out. It’s an ideal place to unwind and soak up the Azorean sun.
3. 📅 Best Times to Visit Azores Beaches
☀️ Summer Sizzle: Peak Season Beach Bliss (June-August)
Summer brings Azores beaches to life with warm temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Expect lively atmospheres, beach events, and festivals. All beach facilities and water sports are in full swing, with bustling towns and vibrant nightlife. For prime spots on popular beaches like Praia de Santa Bárbara on São Miguel, arrive early in the morning. This season is perfect for those seeking a vibrant beach scene and plenty of activities.
🍂 Shoulder Season Serenity: The Sweet Spot (April-May, September-October)
The shoulder season offers pleasant temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F), fewer crowds, and lower prices. It’s ideal for beach lovers who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. Lush green landscapes and blooming flowers add to the scenic beauty. Book accommodations and activities in advance for the best deals, especially on smaller islands like Santa Maria. This period is perfect for those who want to enjoy beaches without the summer crowds.
❄️ Off-Season Tranquility: Dramatic Beauty (November-March)
While not ideal for swimming, the off-season offers a unique perspective on Azorean beaches. Enjoy peaceful atmospheres with empty beaches, dramatic ocean views, and powerful waves. It’s perfect for storm watching and photography enthusiasts. Focus on southern São Miguel for milder temperatures. Beaches like Praia do Pópulo are great for walks and picnics. Experience authentic local life without tourist crowds during this quieter season.
🎯 Activity-Specific Timing: Maximize Your Beach Experience
Different months offer ideal conditions for various beach activities. Swim and sunbathe from June to September, surf from September to April for the best swells, and go whale watching from April to October. For beach hiking and exploration, April, May, September, and October are ideal. If you’re short on time, visit in June or September for great weather and manageable crowds, perfect for beach-hopping.
4. 🚌 How to Get to Azores Beaches
🚗 Local Island Transportation: On larger islands like São Miguel, public buses serve many popular beaches, but renting a car offers more freedom to explore secluded spots. Pico Island’s rugged coastline is best discovered by car. Smaller islands like Santa Maria have limited public transport, so consider hiring taxis or renting a car for efficient beach-hopping.
✈️ Inter-island Transportation: Explore the Azores archipelago’s nine islands efficiently with inter-island flights by SATA Air Açores or ferry services by Atlanticoline. Flights offer quick transfers between islands like São Miguel and Pico, while ferries provide scenic journeys with beautiful ocean views.
🥾 Hiking to Secluded Beaches: Some of the Azores’ most beautiful beaches require a scenic hike to reach, like Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo on São Jorge. These journeys offer breathtaking coastal views, unique flora and fauna, and a sense of accomplishment upon arrival. Often, you’ll be rewarded with a beach all to yourself. Always check weather forecasts before hiking, as Azorean weather can be unpredictable.
♿ Beach Accessibility: Azorean beaches vary in accessibility. Many have steep access paths, and some small beaches lack facilities like showers or lifeguards. Rugged coastlines often mean pebble or black sand beaches instead of soft sand. For those with mobility issues, beaches like Praia das Milícias on São Miguel offer good accessibility and facilities.
5. 🌟 Beach Facilities and Amenities
🦞 Beach Clubs and Restaurants: Many top Azorean beaches boast excellent beach clubs and restaurants, especially on São Miguel. Expect fresh daily-caught seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes with an Azorean twist, and refreshing local drinks including famous Azorean wine. For an unforgettable dining experience, try the beach restaurant at Praia dos Moinhos, known for its delicious grilled limpets.
🏄♂️ Rentals: From Santa Maria to Pico Island, many beaches offer rental services for your beach day needs. Commonly available items include sun loungers, umbrellas, snorkeling gear, surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats. For frequent beach-goers, consider purchasing inexpensive beach gear from local shops instead of renting daily. This can be a great money-saver and allows you to be prepared for any spontaneous beach visits during your trip.
🚨 Lifeguards and Safety: Safety is a priority at many Azorean beaches, with popular spots like Praia de Santa Bárbara on São Miguel and Praia do Almoxarife on Faial often having lifeguards on duty during peak season. Always check flag warnings before swimming: green means safe, yellow indicates caution, and red means no swimming allowed.
🌋 Unique Amenities: The Azores offers unique beach amenities you won’t find elsewhere. Some volcanic beaches feature natural hot springs for a warm dip. Tidal pools provide safe, natural swimming areas. Many beaches boast scenic viewpoints perfect for watching breathtaking sunsets. These distinctive features add an extra layer of excitement and natural beauty to your Azorean beach experience, making each visit truly memorable.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in the Azores, Portugal ❔
Are the Azores worth to visit?
Yes, the Azores are definitely worth visiting. They offer breathtaking nature, unique landscapes, excellent food and wine, UNESCO World Heritage sites, whale watching opportunities, and hiking trails.
How to choose an Azores island?
Consider starting with São Miguel, the largest island, which offers a great introduction to the Azores. For island hopping, the central islands of Pico, Faial, and São Jorge are easy to combine.
Is it easy to island hop in the Azores?
Island hopping is possible but requires some planning. You can travel between islands by local flights or ferries. September is considered one of the best times for island hopping.
Are Azores beaches warm?
The Azores are not a typical warm beach destination. Even in summer, water temperatures are around 22°C (73°F). While this is swimmable, it’s cooler than tropical or Mediterranean waters.
