São Miguel: Key Things to Know Before Your Trip

São Miguel, the largest and most popular island in the Azores, is a true gem of the Atlantic. Known for its striking diversity, this island offers an incredible range of experiences for visitors—from exploring stunning lagoons and hiking through lush forests to relaxing in natural hot springs and enjoying local tea from Europe’s only plantations. Despite being the most touristic island of the archipelago, São Miguel retains its authentic Azorean charm. In this article, I will guide you through the key things to know before visiting the island, helping you make the most of your time in this beautiful destination.

Table of Contents

1. Best Time to Visit
2. How to Get There
3. Top 5 Places to Visit
4. Activities
5. Where to Stay
6. Useful Links and Apps

1. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit São Miguel Island is during May, June, and September. These months offer ideal weather, with warmer ocean temperatures and fewer tourists, making them perfect for enjoying the island’s natural beauty without the overcrowding that July and August bring. Although summer is the peak season with higher temperatures and less rain, it’s also the busiest time, particularly in July and August. June and September stand out as the best months, offering great weather and a more peaceful experience. The weather in São Miguel can be unpredictable year-round. Known for its microclimates, it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. Be prepared for sudden changes, and pack accordingly!

2. How to Get There

The most convenient and affordable way to reach São Miguel is by flying from Lisbon or Porto. Budget airline Ryanair often offers the best prices, but it’s worth checking TAP Air Portugal and SATA Airlines for deals, especially for those traveling from other destinations or inter-island flights. João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada is the island’s main airport and serves as the hub for international and inter-island travel.

3. Top 5 Places to Visit

1. Sete Cidades: One of São Miguel’s most iconic spots, Sete Cidades features twin lakes—one green and one blue—nestled in a massive volcanic crater. The Vista do Rei viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views that capture the essence of the island’s volcanic landscape. Nearby, you’ll also find the eerie remains of the Monte Palace, a once-luxurious hotel that has stood abandoned since the 1990s. This structure, now overrun by nature, adds a mysterious and intriguing atmosphere to the area, offering a glimpse into the island’s past and the impermanence of grand ambitions.

2. Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: Offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in São Miguel. Overlooking the Sete Cidades crater, it provides a panoramic view of the twin lakes and the surrounding lush landscape. It’s a must-visit for those seeking breathtaking scenery and stunning photo opportunities.

3. Lagoa do Fogo: This stunning crater lake is nestled in the center of the island and surrounded by untouched nature. The hike to Lagoa do Fogo offers spectacular views of the lake, making it a favorite destination for both hikers and nature enthusiasts.

4. Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões: A lush, green paradise in the Nordeste region, this natural park is known for its waterfalls, old watermills, and tranquil walking paths. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

5. Terra Nostra Park: One of the oldest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the Azores, Terra Nostra Park is home to diverse plant species and geothermal hot springs, where visitors can take a relaxing dip in the warm, iron-rich waters.

4. Activities

• Hiking: São Miguel offers excellent hiking trails that lead through diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to waterfalls. Popular routes include Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Salto do Cabrito.
• Whale Watching: The waters around São Miguel are one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Tours run year-round, with the peak season for sightings being from April to October.
• Hot Springs: The geothermal activity in São Miguel makes it a perfect place to relax in natural hot springs. Popular spots include the hot springs in Furnas and the warm waterfalls of Caldeira Velha.
• Surfing: Santa Bárbara beach on the northern coast is a favorite for surfers. The island offers waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, particularly during summer and autumn.

5. Where to Stay

• Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
  Nestled in the lush Furnas Valley, this hotel offers exclusive access to Terra Nostra Park’s geothermal hot springs. Surrounded by botanical gardens, it’s the perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

• Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
  Located on the northern coast near Santa Bárbara Beach, this eco-friendly resort combines modern design with sustainability. It’s ideal for travelers looking to enjoy ocean views, surfing, and a serene, environmentally-conscious stay.

• White Exclusive Suites & Villas
  This boutique property offers luxury and privacy, perched on cliffs with panoramic ocean views. Each suite is elegantly designed, making it a great choice for a romantic or peaceful getaway.

• Sul Villas & Spa
  A luxury retreat on the southern coast, Sul Villas & Spa offers spacious villas with stunning ocean views. Featuring private pools and spa services, it’s perfect for a quiet, upscale escape.

6. Useful Links and Apps

Car Rental: For renting a car, I recommend using this service, as it provides a dependable and convenient way to reserve your vehicle.

Wikiloc (Android/iOS/Web): This free app is a must-have for hikers and cyclists. It offers GPS-enabled routes and maps, allowing users to explore and share trails worldwide. With offline functionality, it’s perfect for navigating remote areas.

Windy (Android/iOS/Web): Windy is invaluable for planning your daily activities, offering detailed weather forecasts for rain, clouds, and wind. It also features webcams for live updates, helping you choose the best outdoor plans based on current conditions.

Maps.me (Android/iOS): Similar to Google Maps, this app works offline and is particularly useful for hiking, offering extra information on trails. It’s especially handy when you download official Azores trail routes ahead of time.

SpotAzores (Android/iOS/Web): SpotAzores lets you check live webcams across the islands, making it easy to assess current weather conditions. With São Miguel’s unpredictable weather, this app helps avoid wasted trips by showing where the sun is shining.

Azores Trails: For official hiking routes across the Azores, visit the VisitAzores website. It offers comprehensive information on trails, including maps, difficulty ratings, and descriptions, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

São Miguel offers an memorable blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination in the Azores. It promises a unique and enriching experience. For a deeper dive into planning your trip, don’t forget to check out my comprehensive guide to São Miguel, where I cover everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit!

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