What to Do in the Azores: 12 Breathtaking Activities for First-Time Visitors

What to do in the Azores… it’s a question I’ve been asked countless times since my first trip here nearly a decade ago, and one I never get tired of answering. These nine lush volcanic islands, scattered in the middle of the Atlantic, are often called Europe’s best-kept secret — and I have to agree.

From the misty crater rims of São Miguel to the black-sand beaches of Santa Maria, the Azores blend raw natural beauty with a pace of life that makes you forget the outside world exists.

The Azores archipelago, part of Portugal, sits about 1,500 kilometers west of Lisbon, yet feels worlds away. It’s a UNESCO Global Geopark, celebrated for its volcanic landscapes, pristine marine ecosystems, and deep-rooted traditions that locals fiercely protect.

Quick Guide to the Azores for First-Time Visitors

✔️ Where the Azores Are Located

The Azores Islands form an autonomous region of Portugal, set adrift in the Atlantic Ocean between North America and Europe.

They’re divided into three island groups: the eastern (São Miguel, Santa Maria), central (Terceira, Pico, Faial, São Jorge, Graciosa), and western (Flores, Corvo). Flights from Lisbon take about two hours, while direct flights from Boston or Toronto can get you here in just over five. João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) is the main international gateway.

✔️ Best Time to Visit

I’ve been here in almost every season, and each offers something different. June to August brings warm air, calm seas, and lively festivals — great if you’re after vibrant local culture and outdoor activities. September and October are ideal for hiking and whale watching, with fewer crowds.

November to February can be stormier, but the thermal pools feel magical on cooler days. Spring (April–May) is when hydrangeas and azaleas bloom, painting the landscape.

✔️ Transportation Between Islands

Island-hopping here requires some planning. Azores Airlines operates short flights between islands, while Atlânticoline ferries connect many routes (though schedules vary by season). On São Miguel, Terceira, Pico, and Faial, I recommend a rental car — public transport is limited, and the best viewpoints like Miradouro da Boca do Inferno are easiest reached by road. Always book ahead in summer.

✔️ Cultural & Travel Etiquette

Respecting the environment is non-negotiable here. Locals take pride in their volcanic lakes, lush pastures, and coastal ecosystems — so stick to marked trails and avoid picking plants. In small villages, a friendly bom dia (good morning) goes a long way. Dining is unhurried; meals are meant to be savored. And remember: sustainability isn’t a buzzword here, it’s a way of life.

12 Breathtaking Activities in the Azores

In this guide, I’ll share exactly what to do in the Azores if it’s your first visit, drawn from my own journeys hopping between islands, hiking caldera trails, soaking in geothermal pools, and watching whales breach just offshore.

We’ll explore 12 breathtaking activities — from the famous Sete Cidades crater lakes to lesser-known volcanic caves — with the kind of insider tips you only pick up after repeated visits.

1. Hike to Sete Cidades Crater Lakes

Sete Cidades, on São Miguel Island, is one of the most photographed spots in the Azores Islands — and for good reason. Two crater lakes, Lagoa Azul (blue) and Lagoa Verde (green), sit side by side inside a massive dormant volcano.

Their colors are the result of unique light reflection, and local legend even ties them to a romantic tale of a princess and a shepherd.

What to expect
You’ll find several hiking trails here, from shorter strolls to the 12-kilometer crater rim loop with panoramic views of the Atlantic. The Miradouro da Vista do Rei is the most famous viewpoint, giving you that postcard-perfect shot of the twin lakes. Along the trails, expect hydrangea-lined paths, grazing cattle, and sweeping views over the caldera.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: June, September, or October, when skies are clear and temperatures are mild.
• How to get there: Drive about 30 minutes from Ponta Delgada; a rental car is the easiest way to reach the viewpoint and trailheads.
• Safety notes: Weather changes quickly — bring layers and check visibility before setting off. Download offline maps via Google Maps as cell service can be unreliable.

Personal insight
The first time I hiked the crater rim, a sudden mist rolled in, hiding the lakes completely. I almost turned back, but waited — twenty minutes later, the clouds broke, revealing both lakes glowing under the afternoon sun. It’s worth the patience.

2. Explore Furnas Valley’s Hot Springs

Furnas Valley, also on São Miguel, is a geothermal wonderland — bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and hot springs scattered among lush greenery. It’s also home to the famous cozido das Furnas, a traditional stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat.

What to expect
The highlight is Terra Nostra Park, where you can soak in a massive thermal pool rich in iron and minerals. The water has a rust-colored hue and hovers around 38°C, making it perfect year-round. Furnas also has smaller spring-fed baths like Poça da Dona Beija for a more intimate experience. Around town, you’ll see locals lowering pots into steaming holes in the ground to cook cozido.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Cooler months (November to February) make the hot water even more soothing, but it’s open all year.
• How to get there: About a 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada via the scenic EN1-1A road.
• Safety notes: The minerals can stain swimsuits — wear an older one. Rinse off well afterward to avoid skin irritation.

Personal insight
On my second visit in February, a light drizzle fell as I soaked in Terra Nostra’s pool. The contrast of cool rain and warm mineral water was unforgettable — and the garden’s misty atmosphere felt almost otherworldly.

3. Whale and Dolphin Watching in Pico Island

The Azores is one of the best places in the world for marine life encounters, and Pico Island is a prime location. The nutrient-rich waters attract over 20 species of whales and dolphins, including blue whales during migration.

What to expect
Between April and October, tour boats depart daily from Madalena and Lajes do Pico. You might spot sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, or even orcas. Trips usually last 3–4 hours, with guides sharing insights into local conservation efforts.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Late spring for blue whale sightings; summer for calmer seas.
• How to get there: Fly from São Miguel to Pico or take a ferry from Faial Island.
• Safety notes: Choose operators that follow responsible whale watching guidelines — they should never chase the animals. Bring a waterproof jacket and motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness.

Personal insight
One July morning, I joined a local operator who had been spotting whales for decades. His sharp eyes spotted a sperm whale’s spout long before anyone else on the boat saw it. That moment — the whale slowly surfacing, then diving with its massive tail — still plays in my mind like a slow-motion film.

4. Swim in Natural Lava Pools in Terceira

Terceira Island offers some of the most unique swimming spots in the Azores — natural lava pools formed by ancient volcanic activity. Places like Biscoitos are not just for cooling off; they’re geological wonders where dark basalt rocks create protected saltwater basins against the Atlantic waves.

What to expect
The pools are crystal clear on calm days, with small ladders or rocky steps leading into the water. The surrounding basalt formations are striking, and locals often sunbathe on the rocks between swims. In summer (especially August), the area is lively with families and travelers enjoying the warm air and ocean breeze.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Late June to early September when the Atlantic is warmest.
• How to get there: Biscoitos is about a 25-minute drive from Angra do Heroísmo — a rental car is best for flexibility.
• Safety notes: On rough days, the waves can be powerful. Stick to sheltered areas and watch your footing on slippery rocks.

Personal insight
I first visited Biscoitos on a windy afternoon in October. The outer ocean was wild, but the inner pools remained calm, and I had them almost to myself. Swimming there, with waves crashing just beyond the rocks, felt like being inside nature’s own infinity pool.

5. Climb Mount Pico

Mount Pico is the highest peak in Portugal, rising 2,351 meters above sea level. This dormant volcano is a challenging climb but offers one of the most rewarding views in the Azores — on clear days, you can see as far as Faial and São Jorge.

What to expect
The hike is steep and rocky, with an elevation gain of over 1,000 meters. The official trail starts at Casa da Montanha, where you must register before climbing. Most hikers take 6–8 hours round-trip, and sunrise climbs are popular for breathtaking views above the clouds.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: June to September for stable weather.
• How to get there: Fly or ferry to Pico Island, then drive to Casa da Montanha (accessible by rental car).
• Safety notes: Weather can change dramatically — bring warm clothing, sturdy boots, and enough water. Consider hiring a local guide if you’re inexperienced with high-altitude hikes.

Personal insight
The first time I summited Pico, a blanket of clouds covered the lower islands, making them look like floating green peaks in a sea of white. The descent was tougher than I expected, but the memory of standing above the Azores is worth every aching muscle.

6. Visit Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo, or “Lake of Fire,” is a pristine crater lake in the heart of São Miguel Island. It’s part of a nature reserve, meaning it’s untouched by development — a rare, wild beauty even by Azores standards.

What to expect
From the main viewpoint along the EN5-2A road, you’ll see the lake’s turquoise waters framed by lush green slopes. Adventurous travelers can hike down to the shore, a descent that takes about 30–40 minutes. The silence here is striking, broken only by the wind and distant bird calls.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Clear mornings in September or October, when visibility is best and crowds are minimal.
• How to get there: About a 30-minute drive from Ponta Delgada; a rental car is essential.
• Safety notes: The hike back up is steep — bring water and wear proper footwear. Fog can roll in quickly, so check the weather before going.

Personal insight
On my third visit, I arrived just after sunrise. A soft mist hung over the water, and for a few minutes, it felt like I had the entire caldera to myself — one of those rare travel moments that stops you in your tracks.

7. Go Canyoning in São Miguel

For adrenaline seekers, canyoning in São Miguel is one of the most exciting outdoor adventures in the Azores. You’ll descend waterfalls, jump into crystal-clear pools, and navigate lush volcanic gorges — all in the heart of the island’s untouched nature.

What to expect
Guided canyoning tours typically take you to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park or Salto do Cabrito, where you’ll rappel down cascading falls, slide along smooth basalt, and swim through emerald-green streams. Beginners are welcome, as trained guides provide equipment and instruction.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: May to October, when water levels are ideal and the weather is mild.
• How to get there: Most tours include hotel pick-up from Ponta Delgada. Self-drivers can reach Ribeira dos Caldeirões in about 45 minutes.
• Safety notes: Wear quick-dry clothing and sturdy water shoes. Listen closely to your guide’s instructions, as conditions can change with rainfall.

Personal insight
My first canyoning trip left me grinning from ear to ear — hanging mid-air on a rope beside a roaring waterfall while surrounded by dense, fern-covered cliffs is a rush you don’t soon forget.

8. Stroll Through Angra do Heroísmo

Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage city and a living museum of Portuguese colonial history. Its pastel-colored façades, cobblestone streets, and historic churches reflect centuries of maritime trade and Azorean culture.

What to expect
Start at the Sé Cathedral, then wander past charming plazas like Praça Velha. Don’t miss the view from Monte Brasil, a volcanic peninsula that guards the harbor. Cafés and bakeries offer a taste of local life, and small museums showcase the island’s seafaring heritage.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Year-round, though summer brings lively festivals.
• How to get there: A 20-minute drive from Terceira Airport; the city is easily walkable once you’re there.
• Safety notes: Wear comfortable shoes for steep streets, and bring a light jacket — Atlantic breezes can surprise you.

Personal insight
One evening, I sat in a tiny café off Rua da Sé, sipping espresso as church bells rang and children played in the square. Angra’s charm lies as much in its everyday rhythms as in its grand monuments.

9. Explore Algar do Carvão Lava Tube

Algar do Carvão, in the center of Terceira Island, is a rare volcanic cave you can walk into. Formed over 3,000 years ago, this lava tube descends into a world of shimmering stalactites, mineral walls, and a small underground lake — an unforgettable window into the Azores’ volcanic origins.

What to expect
Guided tours take you down a long staircase into the ancient magma chamber. The temperature drops noticeably inside, and shafts of light from the entrance illuminate moss-covered rock formations. Interpretive signs explain the geology and history of the cave.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: April to September when tours run regularly.
• How to get there: A 15-minute drive from Angra do Heroísmo; parking is available on-site.
• Safety notes: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a light jacket — it’s cool and damp inside.

Personal insight
Standing at the bottom of the lava tube, I felt small — not just physically, but in time. The walls had been shaped by forces that existed long before humans ever set foot on these islands.

10. Taste Local Cheese and Wine

Why it’s special
The Azores are a food lover’s paradise, and nowhere is this more evident than in Pico and São Jorge. Pico Island is renowned for its volcanic-soil vineyards, producing robust reds and crisp whites, while São Jorge is home to one of Portugal’s most distinctive cheeses — Queijo de São Jorge, aged for a rich, nutty flavor.

What to expect
On Pico, visit the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Criação Velha, where black basalt walls shelter the vines from salty Atlantic winds. Many local wineries, such as Cooperativa Vitivinícola da Ilha do Pico, offer tastings paired with regional snacks. In São Jorge, small family-run dairies and shops sell cheese wheels aged from 3 to 7 months, perfect with a glass of Pico wine.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Harvest season in September for wine, or year-round for cheese.
• How to get there: Inter-island ferries connect Pico and São Jorge; rental cars give flexibility to explore tasting stops.
• Safety notes: If sampling wines, arrange a designated driver or join a guided tasting tour.

Personal insight
One afternoon in São Jorge, I paired sharp, crumbly cheese with a chilled Pico Arinto wine while overlooking the Atlantic. The combination was simple but unforgettable — a true taste of the Azores.

11. Discover Capelinhos Volcano

Why it’s special
Capelinhos Volcano, on Faial Island, is the site of a dramatic 1957–58 eruption that extended the island’s landmass. Today, the lunar-like terrain and the on-site Interpretation Center tell the story of the eruption and its impact on the local community.

What to expect
You can walk across the ash-covered landscape, climb the old lighthouse for panoramic views, and explore the museum’s interactive exhibits detailing volcanic science and historical footage of the eruption. The contrast between the barren slopes and the vivid blue Atlantic is striking.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
• How to get there: A 25-minute drive from Horta, with parking available near the visitor center.
• Safety notes: The terrain can be dusty and uneven — wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

Personal insight
Standing at the lighthouse balcony, with volcanic ash underfoot and the Atlantic stretching endlessly ahead, I understood why locals describe Capelinhos as both a wound and a wonder.

12. Relax at Praia Formosa Beach

Why it’s special
Praia Formosa, on Santa Maria Island, boasts the largest stretch of soft sand in the Azores — and unlike most islands, its sands are golden rather than black. It’s a favorite for sunbathing, swimming, and watching some of the best sunsets in the archipelago.

What to expect
The beach offers calm waters in summer, lifeguards during peak season, and a laid-back atmosphere. Small cafés nearby serve fresh seafood and chilled drinks, perfect for an afternoon break.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: July to September for warm water and long, sunny days.
• How to get there: A short drive from Vila do Porto; taxis and local buses are also available.
• Safety notes: Sunscreen is essential — Santa Maria gets more sun than the other islands.

Personal insight
I arrived just before dusk, and the horizon turned gold, pink, and lavender. Locals were gathering for evening swims, and I realized that in the Azores, the end of the day is just as beautiful as the beginning.

Suggested 5–7 Day Azores Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first Azores trip can feel overwhelming — there are nine islands, countless activities, and changing weather to consider. This sample Azores itinerary focuses on minimal transit time, letting you enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Day 1–2: São Miguel Island

• Family-friendly: Visit Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo viewpoints, soak in the geothermal pools at Furnas, and stroll Ponta Delgada’s historic center.
• Adventure-focused: Go canyoning at Ribeira dos Caldeirões, hike to Salto do Prego waterfall, and try whale watching from Vila Franca do Campo.

Day 3: Terceira Island

• Family-friendly: Explore Angra do Heroísmo’s UNESCO old town, take a gentle walk on Monte Brasil, and visit local bakeries.
• Adventure-focused: Descend into Algar do Carvão lava tube and hike the Serra do Cume viewpoint.

Day 4–5: Pico & São Jorge

• Family-friendly: Tour Pico’s UNESCO vineyards, taste local cheeses in São Jorge, and take scenic coastal drives.
• Adventure-focused: Summit Mount Pico (full-day hike) or try coastal kayaking between coves.

Day 6: Faial Island

• Family-friendly: Visit Horta Marina and Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center.
• Adventure-focused: Go diving in the channel between Faial and Pico, or take a sailing trip.

Day 7: Santa Maria

• Family-friendly: Relax at Praia Formosa Beach, explore quaint Vila do Porto.
• Adventure-focused: Hike the Pico Alto trail for panoramic island views.

Travel flow tip: To save time, fly into São Miguel, island-hop via short inter-island flights or ferries, and depart from the last island visited. This reduces backtracking and maximizes your days.

Practical Travel Tips for the Azores

Accommodation options
From boutique hotels in Ponta Delgada to family-run guesthouses and rural Airbnbs, there’s something for every budget. Booking ahead is essential in summer.

Budgeting tips
Expect mid-range pricing — meals average €10–15, inter-island flights €50–100. Traveling in spring or autumn can save money while avoiding crowds.

Packing essentials
The Azores’ weather changes quickly. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, swimwear, and quick-dry clothes for hikes or water activities.

Sustainability & eco-friendly travel
Support local businesses, avoid single-use plastics, and stick to marked trails to preserve fragile ecosystems. The Azores are a UNESCO Global Geopark — travel responsibly to keep them pristine.

Final Thoughts

The Azores are more than just a destination — they’re a living tapestry of volcanic landscapes, ocean adventures, and centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re hiking lava fields, sipping Pico wine, or watching the sun set over Praia Formosa, each moment feels both grounding and awe-inspiring.

While this guide lists some of the best things to do in the Azores, the real magic often happens off-itinerary — in the quiet of a fishing harbor, or in a conversation with a cheesemaker who’s been perfecting his craft for decades.

If you arrive with curiosity and respect for the islands’ rhythm, the Azores will reward you with memories that linger long after you’ve left.

Frequently Asked Questions