Curator’s statement
While the Azores are unfamiliar to many, they're quickly becoming a beloved destination for travelers from the US, Europe, and more. A remote set of nine islands, the Azores are technically a region of Portugal, but are located quite far from the coast (1,200 miles to be exact). These volcanic islands are quite unique and offer a little bit of everything: remote beauty, stunning coastal views, rugged mountain terrain, delicious wine grown in volcanic soil, oceanic hot springs, and more. Direct flights from both the East Coast and Europe make the Azores a fantastic destination for either a quick yet adventurous getaway, or a longer vacation.
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Things to do in the Azores
Sao Miguel
The Azores' main and most populated island, Sao Miguel boasts plenty to do and see. Since the international airport is located here, travelers end up spending a good portion of their time in the Azores on Sao Miguel.
Boca do Inferno: Short hike to a quintessential viewpoint where you can see Sao Miguel's famous caldera and a gorgeous lake.
Parque Terra Nostra: An outdoor park that contains a botanical garden and natural thermal pool. Tack on the walk around Lagoa das Furnas and you'll have a perfect full-day itinerary.
Ponta da Ferraria: An oceanic thermal bath where you can descend a ladder into the water and feel the heat of the hot springs coming through the rocks below you. In great conditions, you'll want to float and relax in this natural hot tub for hours.
Pico
A gorgeous nature-forward island that's home to Mt. Pico (see below!), as well as world-class whale watching, hiking, volcanic wine tasting, and more.
Futurismo Azores Adventures: Fantastic whale watching tours. Opportunity to see a ton of wildlife, including lots of whales and many types of dolphins.
Ponta da Ilha hike: A challenging but gorgeous hike along the rugged coast of Pico. You'll follow painted markings to venture over lava rocks and through quaint villages and farms. The panoramic ocean and countryside views are not to be missed.
Mount Pico hike: An advanced but rewarding trail that leads to the summit of Mt. Pico, the imposing volcano visible from much of the Azores and Portugal's highest point. Doing this with a guide - in summer months and fair weather conditions only - is strongly recommended.
Zona Balnear do Caisinho: A gorgeous natural swimming pool formed by ocean rocks. Perfect for a quick dip but be prepared for the current!
Sao Jorge
One of the Azores' more rustic islands. Be prepared for a slower pace, winding roads, and gorgeous views.
Piscina Simão Dias: A must-visit oceanic pool bordered by sweeping, geometrical cliffs. A pristine and memorable place to swim (and sunbathe if you desire).
Faja da Caldeira hike: A lovely hike down to the well-known and quaint oceanside village of Fajã dos Cubres on Sao Jorge. The elevation on the way back will get your heart pumping!
Places to eat & drink in the Azores
Quinta Dos Sabores: A farm-to-table restaurant on Sao Miguel with a cozy atmosphere, serving high-quality meals made with ingredients grown on the property's farm.
The Gin Library: An interactive bar experience on Sao Miguel. Visitors can peruse Europe's largest gin collection and taste both local Azorean and international offerings in their light-filled tasting room. The owner, a collector and creator of his own Azorean gin, also offers master classes. Incredibly unique experience!
Azores Wine Company: An ideal place to taste an assortment of volcanic Azorean wines, set amongst a beautiful lava field in Pico.
Magma: Located in the guest favorite Lava Homes hotel on Pico, Magma is a delightful dinner option with stunning views and a delicious menu.
Cella Bar: A fun bar + restaurant set right on the edge of the ocean in Pico. Snack on an assortment of tapas and drinks while watching the waves crash against the lava rocks right in front of you.
Restaurante Fornos De Lava: A delicious restaurant on Sao Jorge serving local specialties.
Travel Advisor
Sophie Cummins
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Selena Kirchhoff’s guide, Explore the São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to the Azores.