Explore São Miguel: A Complete Guide To Its Best Beaches

Situated in the eastern part of the group of the Portuguese Azores archipelago is São Miguel
which is the largest and most populated among the nine Islands of the Azores. Known for its
stunning landscapes, vibrant lush forests, and volcanic sands, which are unique to the Island.

The pristine crystal-clear beaches that attract beach lovers should not be ignored when
speaking of the wonders of the Island.

Whether you visit the beach to swim, relax in the sun, or enjoy watersports activities. The
beaches in São Miguel cater to all your needs, providing you with a refreshing experience and
an ideal retreat into nature.

As we move further in this article, we are going to roll out those amazing beaches best for you
and the reason why they must be included in your to-do list for your trip to the Island.

Table of contents

1. Top 7 Beaches in São Miguel
2. How to get to São Miguel
3. The best time to visit São Miguel
4. Safety tips to follow when visiting São Miguel beaches

Top 7 Beaches in São Miguel

1. Praia das Milícias

Known as “Milicias beach” or the Big beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in São
Miguel, characterized by its distinct soft volcanic sands and built-in amenities designed for the
comfort of visitors. If what you are looking for is just more than a beach, then this might be your
perfect match.

It features a public bathroom, a parking center, and a playground for different kinds of fun. The
main highlight of this beach is that it serves as an excellent location for water sports activities.

The waves of the ocean excite experienced surfers. For beginners looking forward to catching
their first wave, you can rent your surfing materials and pay for a lesson at the nearby surf
school.
At the beach, you will find lifeguards moving around to guide you and protect your kids.

This makes it an ideal family trip destination. Whether you surf, play beach volleyball, or simply
soak up the sun, this beach has something for everyone. Its exceptional facilities, combined with
the refreshing water, make it a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor fun.

2. Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara

Located on the northern coast of São Miguel is this incredibly stunning beach renowned for its
massive waves and expansive area. It is one of the largest beaches in São Miguel, with dark
sands that stretch about 1 km long.

The beach is gracefully divided into two parts; the western side, which is more open and apt for
surfing, and the eastern side, which is more protected and perfect for swimming – a quality that
makes you wonder about its natural settings. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as freshwater
showers, small shops with refreshments, and free parking.

Because of its rare strong waves, it is an abode for lovers of watersports adventures. One
unique attraction of this beach is that you will be thrilled to enjoy performances from
experienced surfers as it hosts some international surfing and bodyboarding competitions every
September.

I recommend a quick stop at the nearby TukáTulá Beach bar for a breathtaking view of the
ocean while having delicious food and drinks.

Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara provides endless opportunities not only for water sports
enthusiasts but for anyone seeking a tranquil beach experience.

“If you are an inexperienced surfer looking forward to your first wave ride, and you find
yourself in Praia das Milícias or Praia do Areal da Santana Bárbara, you can book an
extensive surf guide here.”

3. Praia de Água D’Alto, Grande

This is one of those beaches on the Island that is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and
lush landscapes, creating a serene environment. It is situated in the Água D’Alto parish within
the Vila Franca do Campo council.

Their amenities include a changing room and a nearby restaurant where you can enjoy local
cuisine. The display of the blue flag at the beach highlights its environmental and water safety.
Surveillance cameras are installed to ensure the safety of visitors. Its calm fine sands and
crystal-clear waters make it a perfect destination for swimming and snorkeling.

If you are looking for an ideal spot for relaxation and beautiful natural scenery, Praia Água
D’Alto, Grande might be the right choice for you.

4. Praia dos Mosteiros

If you find yourself in Mosteiros village, this beautiful beach should be one of those places you
see.

The beach features volcanic sands, a vast landscape, and huge limestone.
On getting to the beach, you will be amazed at the tall cliffs and powerful waves that extend to
the coastlines. This makes it a great spot for water sports activities.

Since it is situated in a remote area, hikers can use the nearby trails to explore the rough coastline. Have you ever thought of those
stunning views of sunset that shine through the ocean? This is a basic attraction of the beach,
you will be surprised by the magical sight of the sunset behind the rocks in the ocean. A
beautiful moment that should be captured on camera.

Praia dos Mosteiros is a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Its breathtaking greenery and crystal-clear waters make it a must-visit beach in São Miguel.

5. Praia do Pópulo

It is located near the city of Ponta Delgada. Its characteristics are similar to that of Praia das
Milicias. These two beaches are part of the main attractions in the capital of the Island.

Though it is smaller in size, it is surrounded by beautiful greenery that gives a sense of
relaxation. The sea features dark volcanic sands, rocky shores, and calm shallow waters good
for swimming. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the ocean from their well-structured
terrace. Changing facilities and restaurants in the area are some of the available amenities.

Its gentle waves make it an excellent spot for surfers, divers, and water sports lovers in general.
Because of its compact size, it is always less busy, creating a peaceful environment for all. It is
a go-to destination for people who cannot cope with the crowd in Praia das Milicias. Praia do
Pópulo is a great spot for sunbathing and swimming.

6. Praia do Fogo

Each town that comprises the Azore is identified by one or a couple of natural wonders. The
village of Ribeira Quente has Praia do Fogo – a beach popular for its warm waters.
The beach is surrounded by stunning landscapes, lush mountains, and dark volcanic sands,
showcasing the nice views of Azorean nature.

Unlike most beaches which are usually cold, Praia do Fogo stands out by maintaining a
temperature of 23°C. This is a result of the underwater hypothermal springs from the nearby
Furnas.

The beach is a perfect spot for diving and snorkeling. Pufferfish and parrotfish can be spotted,
and you might be lucky to come across turtles or marine mammals.

In the summer, a live music festival is celebrated, where you can enjoy some Portuguese music
while taking chicharros – a delicious local meal served at a nearby restaurant.

Praia do Fogo offers something quite different from other beaches of São Miguel. Its unique
combination of warm waters, natural beauty, and cultural charm makes it a standout spot on the
Island.

7. Praia do Lombo Gordo

It is certainly the most naturally-reserved beach in the whole of São Miguel. It’s located in a
secluded area, surrounded by hills covered with green, stunning landscapes that offer a serene
atmosphere for escape into nature.

The path to the beach is a steep bridge with flowers on each side, giving you a sense of hiking
adventure. As you go further on the path, you will be thrilled by the majestic appearance of the
ocean as it unfolds before you.

Its clear, blue waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling; you will also have the opportunity
to discover a variety of marine life.

If you seek something more adventurous, you can explore the nearby trails around the beach
and try the local dishes.

Praia do Lombo Gordo is a hidden gem for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the purest
form of nature of São Miguel beaches.

How to get to São Miguel

Getting to São Miguel has now become easier than before irrespective of the country you are
located. The best and easiest way to get there is by plane.
João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada ( the Island capital) is the busiest; it is the Island hub that
welcomes domestic, international, or even inter-island flights to the Azore.

Travelers from the USA, Canada, the UK, and even European countries can fly to São Miguel
and other Azorean Islands with great ease.

SATA Azores Airlines, Tap Air Portugal, and Ryanair are flight companies that provide easy
access to the Azores. We recommend Sata Azores Airlines as they offer the best services and
inter-Island flights for travelers within the Azores.

If you want to access São Miguel from another island by water, Atlanticoline offers that. You can
book your ferry here.

On getting to the Island, you will need a means to move around or to get to your hotel. We
always advise you to rent a car before your arrival on any island in the Azores. You can rent
your car on DiscoverCars.

Check out the best hotels to visit in São Miguel. Book your hotel here.

The best time to visit São Miguel

You might have known before now that the Azorean weather is so erratic and unpredictable. In a
day, you can experience a couple of weather conditions that will disturb your plans to enjoy the
Island. To be well prepared for the weather conditions, you can download the SpotAzores app
on your device.

The weather of Sao Miguel is relatively similar since it is part of the island that comprises the
Azores.
However, the best time to visit São Miguel is dependent on the activities you are exploring. Let’s
take a look at that:

Summer – (June and September): If you are aiming to enjoy the beaches on the island and
general outdoor activities. This is the perfect time of the year to do that, as the sunlight is bright,
which creates a warm atmosphere for outdoor fun. Also, this is the peak moment, and you
should expect crowds in public places.

Spring – (March and May): This time of the year is suitable for hiking and discovering the
Natural parks and gardens. The weather is mild, and so the natural vegetation flourishes
amazingly during this period.

Winter – (December to February): If you enjoy a calm and peaceful environment for your
traveling, then this season is for you. It is ideal for indoor activities, culinary experiences, and
some outdoor fun. The weather conditions can be so unpredictable, making it unsuitable for
general outdoor vibes.

Learn more about the weather of the Azores here.

To stay guided and prepared about the Azorean weather, you can download the SportAzores
app to get updated insight into its weather conditions.

Safety tips to follow when visiting São Miguel beaches

1. Be aware of strong waves as you walk closer to the shores. The waves can be so
unpredictable, especially during fall and winter.

2. Be careful when diving into the sea. Shallow rocks and deep diving into unknown areas can
result in injury or death.

3. When you walk at the beach, take note of warning signs indicating possible rock hazards or
cliff erosion.

4. Make sure to follow instructions from lifeguards that patrol the ocean. Ask questions when in
doubt. You will be fined by the maritime police if you fail to adhere to the precautions given to
you by the lifeguards.

5. Read and understand the safety rules and regulations of your chosen beach.

6. Protect yourself against the jellyfish famously known as Portuguese-man-o-wars. They can
sting or cut you open when you step or touch them.

7. Know your limits and do not swim alone if you’re not skilled enough at swimming.

8. And lastly, be mindful of warning flags on display and strictly adhere to them.

Here are some of the flags and their meanings:

– Red flag: This means that water is not in good condition and should not be entered.

– Green flag: Water condition is good and can be entered.

– Yellow flag: You can enter the water but you can’t swim.

– Blue flag: This means that the particular beach is standard. The blue flag indicates the water
quality, safety, and environmental tolerance of the beach. Any beach with this flag meets the
standards of the Foundation for Environmental Education(FEE).

Learn more about travel advice when visiting the Azores here.

São Miguel’s beaches offer a wide range of experiences for beach lovers.
Its fine black sand, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding greenery environment create
unforgettable memories for tourists.

Its breathtaking scenery and untouched nature thrill visitors of all kinds.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to relax and soak up the sun,
the island’s stunning beaches and calm waters are an ideal spot for relaxation and
outdoor fun.

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