In the middle of the North Atlantic, some 1,500 kilometres from Lisbon, the Azores archipelago is one of the most extraordinary destinations Portugal has to offer. With nine volcanic islands, intensely green landscapes, crater lakes and exceptional marine biodiversity, the Azores attract ever more travellers seeking authentic nature. Azorean beaches — while different from anything on the mainland — have their own unmistakable charm.
São Miguel — the green island
Praia dos Mosteiros on the western tip is one of the archipelago's postcards: black volcanic sand, jagged rocks and natural pools carved from lava. For surfers, Praia de Santa Bárbara on the north coast offers consistent Atlantic swells. The south coast beaches of Lagoa and Pópulo are calmer and family-friendly.
Terceira and beyond
On Terceira, the Biscoito Natural Pools offer bathing in volcanic rock formations with extraordinary water clarity. On Flores, the Poço do Bacalhau Natural Pools sit at the base of a waterfall that falls directly into the sea. On Pico, you swim within sight of Portugal's highest peak (2,351 m).
When to visit
The best months for beach visits are July, August and September, when air temperatures reach 25–28°C and sea temperature peaks at around 22–24°C. Azorean weather is famously unpredictable, but summer is reliably the most stable season.
