São Miguel Island in the Azores is a unique travel destination. If you’re searching for pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, this might not be the spot for you. However, if you crave breathtaking volcanic landscapes, rich history, stunning architecture, dramatic coastlines, geothermal hot springs, and unforgettable road trips, then São Miguel is your ultimate destination.
Why Choose Sao Miguel for Your Trip?
This island has it all, from scenic viewpoints (miradouros) and vibrant blue hydrangeas to rejuvenating hot springs and cascading waterfalls. Plus, you’ll find lush greenery, pineapple plantations, captivating architecture, incredible hiking trails, natural pools, world-class whale watching opportunities, and the only tea farms in Europe!
The Azores are often referred to as the “Hawaii of Europe,” which provides a helpful comparison. This archipelago, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, has a fascinating history, inhabited since around 700-850 AD, later “discovered” by the Portuguese in the 1400s.
Sao Miguel is ideal for those seeking an active vacation or an epic road trip. It’s easily accessible for US travelers wanting to experience Europe with minimal layovers and travel time. The mild climate also makes it a great year-round travel destination.
Your Detailed Guide to São Miguel, Azores
Getting There
Flying is the only practical way to reach São Miguel. You can either take a small inter-island plane or arrive at the international airport. Both São Miguel and Terceira offer international flights from the US and mainland Europe, providing direct access from the US.
I flew with United and landed at Ponta Delgada Airport. Customs was quick, and I found a reliable ATM (Santander) in the main lobby. Rental car services are also conveniently located in the lobby. I opted for an off-airport rental, which added a little extra time.
For inter-island departures from São Miguel, arriving an hour or 90 minutes beforehand is sufficient due to the airport’s small size. However, security lines can be slow. I flew to Pico on SATA (Azores Airlines) and was glad I checked my bag, as the plane was small with limited overhead space.
Ferries connect some of the Azores islands. Book directly through Atlantico Lines or use Ferryhopper for easy management.
Getting Around: Car Rental in Sao Miguel
Renting a car is essential for exploring São Miguel, offering flexibility to adapt to the ever-changing weather conditions. Driving can be challenging due to narrow streets, requiring full attention.
Consider guided tours for short day trips if you prefer not to drive, with options focusing on Sete Cidades, Furnas, or a full two-day island tour.
I booked rental cars using DiscoverCars for reliable rates and automatic transmission options. RentalCars.com and AutoEurope are also worth comparing. Book early for an automatic car and choose the smallest car possible for navigating the narrow streets.
Off-airport rental companies may add extra time for shuttles and paperwork.
Here are some driving tips for the Azores:
- Google Maps is generally reliable but can be inaccurate, so use common sense.
- Gas stations have limited hours (typically 7:00 am to 9:00-10:00 pm) and often only accept Portuguese debit/credit cards, so carry cash.
- Get comprehensive insurance due to potential scratches, dents, and flat tires.
- Familiarize yourself with Portuguese road signs and roundabout etiquette, similar to driving in Ireland but on the right side of the road.
- Use the bulbous mirrors at intersections to see oncoming traffic.
Where to Stay in São Miguel
Your base location depends on your trip duration and desired attractions. Consider splitting your time if staying longer than a few days.
I stayed in a beautiful apartment at Herdade do Lameiro, a north-central coast location with easy island access. The Santa Barbara eco resort is another excellent option.
Herdade do Lameiro features air conditioning, a pool, a patio, and scenic views. Be cautious of Google Maps shortcuts that lead to difficult dirt roads; stick to the main roads.
Ponta Delgada is a popular base with numerous restaurants. I stayed at the Praia de Santos guesthouse, and Casa de Palmeiras is another great option.
What to Pack
I visited in early September and found it hot and humid, so pack light, cool clothing. Many places lack air conditioning.
Pack sundresses, anti-chafe cooling shorts, lightweight travel pants, sleeveless or short-sleeve tops, walking sandals, and white sneakers. Avoid jeans.
Depending on your hiking plans and the time of year, bring windproof and waterproof outer layers due to frequent wind, fog, and rain.
Bring lightweight yoga pants, a sports bra, a tank top, and quick-drying running shoes for hiking. If you plan on swimming in natural pools or hiking near waterfalls, bring hiking/water sandals.
Pack a swimsuit that you don’t mind getting stained from hot springs.
Don’t forget coral-safe sunblock, non-toxic makeup, a headband, and polarized sunglasses.
How to Shape Your Sao Miguel Itinerary
Planning your itinerary requires flexibility due to unpredictable weather. Research points of interest but be ready to adapt.
Road trips offer incredible scenery, but safe stopping points can be limited. Prioritize exploring over quick stops.
Driving from one side of the island to the other takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, with frequent stops for photos and exploration.
The SpotAzores app provides real-time weather views around the island, crucial for planning.
Group attractions by location:
- North-Central Side: Ribeira Grande, Miradouro de Santa Iria, tea plantations, and Salto do Cabrito waterfall.
- East Side: Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, Furnas, Furnas Lake, Salto do Rosal waterfall, Poca da Dona Beija hot springs, and Parque Natural das Ribeira dos Caldeirões.
- West Side: Mosteiros, Sete Cidades, Miradouros Vista do Rei and Boca da Inferno, Ponta da Ferraria, and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado.
- South-Central Side: Vila Franca do Campo, Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, Lagoa do Congro, Caloura, and Miradouro do Pisao.
- Central: Lagoa do Fogo.
My favorites included Miradouro Vista do Rei, Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego, whale watching, Miradouro de Santa Iria at sunset, and Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz.
If Lagoa do Fogo has clear weather, prioritize visiting.
If it rains, explore Ponta Delgada, visit pineapple plantations, and relax in the Furnas hot springs.
This image highlights how the miradouros offer breathtaking spots to pause, relax, and map out the journey in search of Miguel’s Guide Plane.
Additional Tips for Visiting Sao Miguel
- Parking in Ponta Delgada can be difficult.
- When paying by credit card, decline the conversion to pay in euros.
- The island is generally affordable.
- Bring plenty of water bottles, as it can be hard to find places to buy water.
- Public restrooms are rare, so use them whenever available.
- Bring an external battery for your phone.
- Make dinner reservations whenever possible, and note that many restaurants close for 2-3 hours in the late afternoon.
Things to Do in Sao Miguel
Ponta Delgada
This main city is worth a few hours or even a day, depending on your priorities. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and black-and-white churches. Visit Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião and Portas da Cidade.
Visit a Pineapple Plantation
See how the Azores grow their famous tiny pineapples. Visit Arruda Plantation and enjoy a self-guided tour, gift shop, and bar.
Sete Cidades
The two lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, are stunning on a sunny day. Drive to Miradouro Vista do Rei for the best view.
Ponta da Ferraria
Stop at Farol da Ferraria (lighthouse) and Ponta da Ferraria’s natural pools, formed by volcanic rocks with hot and cold water.
The image shows the views from Ponta da Ferraria in Sao Miguel.
Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
This lesser-known viewpoint offers sweeping coastal views.
Mosteiros Beach
Known for its black sand beach and cool rock formations.
Ribeira Grande
Visit Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Estrela and Jardim Municipal de Ribeira Grande.
Miradouro de Santa Iria
Stunning at sunset, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of Sao Miguel’s green terraced hills and rocky shoreline.
Visit a Tea Plantation
Visit Cha Gorreana and Porto Formoso Tea Factory, the only tea plantations in Europe.
Visit a tea plantation, Cha Gorreana – things to do in Sao Miguel Island, Azores.
Parque Natural das Ribeira dos Caldeirões
This natural park features flowing waterfalls, flowers, and greenery.
Vila Franca do Campo
Explore this seaside town and visit a miradouro overlooking the coast.
Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz
This iconic church offers a great viewpoint and cool architecture.
Go on a Dolphin & Whale Watching Boat Trip
Take a tour from Ponta Delgada or Vila Franca do Campo.
Islet of Vila Franca do Campo
This flooded volcanic crater island is great for bird spotting and snorkeling.
Islet of Vila Franca do Campo is an interesting place to visit on Sao Miguel if you have the time.
Furnas Lake
Hike around Furnas Lake and visit the abandoned Capela da Nossa Senhora das Vitorias.
Furnas & Its Hot Springs
Explore the volcanic complex, soak in hot springs, and try traditional stews cooked in geothermal heat.
Miradouro do Pico do Ferro
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Furnas and Furnas Lake.
Miradouro da Ponta do Arnel
This viewpoint offers views of the lighthouse and beautiful cliffs.
Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego / Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada
This botanical garden complex offers incredible views and a peaceful experience.
Miradouro do Pico Longo
This viewpoint has a nice little garden.
