If you’re wondering about the best things to do in São Miguel in the Azores, this guide will help you plan your visit. The largest island in the archipelago offers volcanic lakes, hot springs, dramatic viewpoints, tea plantations, coastal villages and some excellent hiking trails.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of them, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure Policy and Privacy Policy.
The attraction of the Azores is mainly the natural beauty; there are few “must-see” monuments on any of the islands, although there are plenty of interesting places to visit and outdoor activities.
Although it has plenty to offer active travellers, you don’t have to be super fit or adventurous to make the most of your visit to São Miguel Island. There are plenty of viewing spots you can drive to or visit on a guided tour to learn more about the local culture and landscapes. It’s also a perfect destination for embracing slow travel and relaxation.
Map of São Miguel Island with key towns and lakes
Due to its size, diversity and the number of flights, I’d say that São Miguel is the best island in the Azores for first time visitors. If you aren’t planning to rent a car, Ponta Delgada is the most convenient base in terms of transport and tours.
If you’re looking for accommodation, see my Ponta Delgada accommodation guide or best hotels in São Miguel. If you’re planning to explore more islands, my where to stay in the Azores guide may also help.
Top experiences in São Miguel
- See the twin lakes at Sete Cidades
- Relax in the hot springs at Furnas
- Visit Gorreana tea plantation
- Swim at Vila Franca do Campo islet
- Go whale watching
- Hike to Salto do Prego waterfall
Popular tours in São Miguel
Discover western São Miguel including Sete Cidades and Mosteiros.
Tour the east of the island, with time in Furnas and Nordeste.
If you’re short on time, enjoy the hidden gems of São Miguel on a whole island tour.
THINGS TO DO IN PONTA DELGADA
1. Discover the gastronomic delights of Ponta Delgada
In order to get an understanding of the island’s culture through its food and drink, you could take a walking food tour of Ponta Delgada. You’ll visit Mercado Da Graca, the local fresh produce market to explore the fruit and flavours that are key to the region’s cuisine, visit a cheese specialist and other establishments for tastings and drinks.
👉 See full details of this Ponta Delgada Food Tour
If you’re keen to learn more about Azorean wines as well as the food, and use daytime hours for other activities, you could do a Wine & Food Evening Walking Tour instead, but the market won’t be part of the experience.
👉 Find out more about the Evening Food Tour
2. Walk beneath the Portas da Cidade (City Gates)
These iconic black and white gates mark the entrance to Ponta Delgada’s historical centre and have seen many dignitaries walk beneath its three arches over time and featured in countless holiday photos.
Originally built in 1783 at a different location, they were moved to their present position on Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral in 1952. The gates are made from dark volcanic basalt contrasted with white plaster, a style typical of Azorean architecture. On top of the central arch you can see the coat of arms of Portugal and of the municipality of Ponta Delgada.
3. Browse the collections at the Azorean Museum
Created in 1876, this Ponta Delgada museum (Museu Carlos Machado), soon built collections of zoology, botany, geology and mineralogy, principally for studying. Over the years these collections have grown and are now displayed over three spaces.
The museum has a variety of circuits that visitors can follow. The Natural History Circuit explores the original basis for the museum but you can also follow the Sacred Art Circuit or Convent Memory Circuit, which offers insights into the life of the Poor Clares who lived in the convent building long before it became a museum space.
4. Wander around the José do Canto Gardens near Sant’Ana Palace
Also in Ponta Delgada, the elegant 19th-century Sant’Ana Palace and neighbouring botanical gardens date from a time when orange exports to Britain were bringing considerable wealth to the island.
Purchased by the Azorean government in 1977, Palácio de Sant’Ana is now the official residence of the President of the Regional Government and is not normally open to the public. You can, however, explore the adjacent José do Canto botanical gardens, which contain an impressive collection of trees and plants from around the world.
5. Stroll through the António Borges Gardens
Although not the most stunning public gardens I’ve ever set foot in, Jardim António Borges is a pleasant park to wander around if you have spare time in Ponta Delgada.
Once a private garden, until it was given to the local council in the 1950s, you’ll find a good selection of tree species and well-kept gardens.
6. Admire the architecture of Ponta Delgada’s parish church
Located just behind Ponta Delgada’s famous town gates (see #2), the 16th century church of Saint Sebastian (Igreja Matriz de Sao Sebastião) is worth a look, mainly for the gilded carving on the main altar and azulejos.
I was most impressed by the stonework surrounding the doorway and windows of the parish church. I’m used to seeing elaborately carved limestone, sandstone and even granite on the mainland but this black basalt stone, and the contrast it makes against a white background, is striking.
7. Pop inside Igreja de São José for colourful tiles and unique ceilings
When a Franciscan order needed accommodation in Ponta Delgada in the 18th century, they decided to build a chapel/monastery on the site of an old primitive church. The result is this quite intriguing temple with its foreboding façade, dominated by the main entrance, stretching along the street.
The swirly stonework is a feature here too, making its windows stand out and beg to be photographed.
Go inside and you’ll find an extremely golden altar; look closely at the gilded decorations inside the church and you might spot a cherub throttling a goose!
I loved the painted ceiling, even if the 3D effect doesn’t quite work. It’s very different in terms of colour and style from ceilings I’ve seen in other Portuguese churches.
If you’re keen to see some of the azulejos (painted tiles) that Portugal is renowned for, you’ll find some beautiful polychrome murals.
Whilst you’re visiting the church it’s well worth your while to take a moment and glance around the square (Campo de São Francisco) in which the church sits. The massive tree and pretty cobblestones are worth seeing in their own right.
8. Take in some history at Forte de São Brás
You won’t find any castles in the Azores but if you’re looking for the next best thing, this fortress in Ponta Delgada is pretty impressive.
Built in the 16th century, to see off pirates and corsairs, it was the biggest fortification on the Azores islands. Now it hosts a fine military museum where you can get your fix of weapons and military paraphernalia. There are lots of tunnels to wander through and you can climb to the roof for some great views of the city and port.
9. Cool off at the Piscinas do Pesqueiro
A lovely way to cool off in Ponta Delgada is to go for a swim at this outdoor seawater swimming pool located just inside the Complexo das Portas do Mar by the marina. It’s very popular, open to the public every day from 7 am to 9 pm, free of charge and safe. There are also lockers and shower facilities for a small fee.
If you prefer enclosed outdoor pools, the adjacent Piscinas de São Pedro has an olympic sized pool as well as shallow ones for kiddies.
10. Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront
Sandwiched between the Piscinas do Pesqueiro pool and the fortress is the waterfront, including the Marina. It’s a lovely walk and an ideal place for a little bit of people watching and ocean-gazing while sat on the seawall.
NATURAL ATTRACTIONS AND VIEWPOINTS AROUND SÃO MIGUEL
11. Discover the double coloured lakes at Sete Cidades
Visitors looking for things to do in São Miguel inevitably end up here and they’re rarely disappointed. Located within a 3-mile wide volcanic crater you’ll find the tiny village of Sete Cidades. It’s most famous for the distinctive colours of its two lakes, one blue, the other green.
Several viewpoints around the crater rim offer spectacular views of the twin lakes, especially from Vista do Rei and Boca do Inferno.
Legend has it that the differently coloured lakes were created when a princess and her lover, a young shepherd, had to part from each other. The tears they shed at their farewell became the two lakes, mirroring the colours of their eyes.
Suggested activities:
Try paddling around the enchanted Blue Lake with this kayak rental service.
Or you could get to know Sete Cidades at your own pace by choosing from a variety of trails via this E-bike rental. GPS and maps are included.
If you don’t have a car, you can explore Sete Cidades on this full day group tour of lakes, viewpoints and waterfalls, departing from Ponta Delgada.
Although there are no major sights, a stroll around the village is pleasant and you’ll probably want to get a closer look at the pretty Igreja de São Nicolau, a neo-Gothic church with a single bell tower.
12. Explore Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park
This wonderful natural park is a protected area in the northeast of São Miguel Island, where you’ll find cascading waterfalls and a myriad of different species of flora and fauna, from large tree ferns to hydrangeas and enormous conifers.
Thanks to its position on a watercourse, there’s a lovely waterfall along with a mill and millers’ house to explore.
There are some easy walking trails through the park, such as this 5 km circular trail.
If you’re happier with a quick visit, and would also like to spend time in Furnas (see below), you could discover the park and waterfall on this East São Miguel tour from Ponta Delgada.
13. Go whale and dolphin watching
Because São Miguel is a small island, you’re never far away from an opportunity to take to the waters, whether merely observing the best of nature or participating in some kind of recreational sport. One very popular activity, aside from diving, is whale and dolphin watching.
This eco-certified whale and dolphin watching boat trip is led by a marine biologist who will help you to spot various different species of whales and dolphins as well as other marine life.
14. Uncover the mysteries of Mosteiros
Well, they’re not really mysteries. Mosteiros is a picturesque coastal village located on the west coast known for its stunning natural beauty. One thing that draws people here is its extraordinary beach.
The photogenic volcanic black sand of Mosteiros beach is quite enthralling and it’s lovely to walk along the beach, gazing out at the ocean. It’s also a popular spot for sunsets.
The natural swimming pools to the north of the village (Piscinas Naturais Caneiros) offer a refreshing dip in the crystal clear rock pools. There are plenty of pools so keep wandering until you find one you like.
Just offshore are some enormous lava rock formations which again beg to be photographed. These are the Ilhéus dos Mosteiros, 4 large rocks that are the remains of an island. One of them looks like a building with a sloped roof.
The area is also good for birdwatching, particularly seabirds and waders. If you’re interested in observing birds in their natural habitat, this seabird watching tour, led by a marine biologist, is worth considering.
In the centre of Mosteiros village is the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, built in 1837. With its white facade, edged with black volcanic stone, it’s a very attractive building.
15. Watch the earth bubble at Furnas, São Miguel
The geysers and geothermal waters attract many visitors to the village of Furnas and I can totally understand why. Steam, sulphurous vapour and the plopping of boiling grey clay welcome you to the lake, creating a kind of strange otherworldliness.
You can try a delicious casserole straight from the fumarole, aka underground cooking hole, where it’s been cooking for up to 6 hours. There’s usually a food truck serving samples or you can head to a nearby restaurant for your cozido, a typical Portuguese dish of mixed meats and vegetables in broth.
You can taste cozido and bathe in a thermal pool during the cool evening on this night-time thermal pools and food experience.
Read more about Furnas in this article.
16. Visit Vila Franca do Campo Island
Head down to the southern part of São Miguel island to the town of Vila Franca do Campo and you’ll see the gorgeous islet of Vila Franca do Campo about a kilometre off the coast.
The islet is formed from the crater of an ancient, submerged volcano and its almost circular lake, with crystal clear waters, is perfect for swimming and kayaking.
👉 Explore the islet with this kayaking experience, which includes time to snorkel. Pick up from Ponta Delgada is available or meet in Vila Franca do Campo Marina.
During the summer season, you can take a small ferry to the islet and swim inside the sheltered lagoon, although daily visitor numbers are limited because it is a protected nature reserve.
Unfortunately, Dori and I missed out because there was an event going on so tickets had sold out by the time we got there. It’s high on my list of things to do on my next trip to the Azores.
We made do instead with the small sandy beach of Praia da Vinha da Areia to the east of the town of Vila Franca do Campo.
17. Explore the Tropical Terra Nostra Gardens
You can wander around a variety of bubbling lakes and themed gardens, with an array of amazing tropical flowers. Watch out for examples of topiary with some quite scary looking species of green beasts.
18. Bathe in hot springs at Poças da Dona Beija
Poças da Dona Beija is my preferred hot springs venue in Furnas, although there is another one inside Terra Nostra Gardens.
Within the outdoor complex there are a variety of pools offering water at different temperatures and pressure so you can treat your body to a self-guided therapeutic hydromassage or just relax in the warm water and enjoy being surrounded by tropical foliage.
19. Visit Gorreana tea plantation
The Gorreana Tea Factory is the oldest tea factory in Europe still in operation. Because of the climate and volcanic soil, and the lack of nearby industrialisation, the green and black teas produced here are 100% organic and recognised throughout the world for their quality.
If you visit the plantation you can watch the entire process, from picking to packaging, and learn about the company’s history. My favourite of their teas is the Orange Pekoe so do make a point of trying it.
There’s also a 3.4 km circular hiking trail (PRC28 SMI) that runs through its verdant tea plantations and was quite easy to follow. It offers great views of the coastline as well as of the tea plantation.
20. Take in the surroundings at Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
There are some amazing miradouros, or viewpoints, throughout the island but I think one of the most spectacular must be this one.
From here you’ll get marvellous views, not just of Furnas and the lagoons but the whole of the surrounding area. It’s just a 5-minute drive from Furnas Lake and there’s plenty of parking.
You can get a taste of it with this short video.
Of course, if you can get there at sunset, even better!
If you don’t have a car, you can visit the Pico do Ferro viewpoint on this East São Miguel full day trip to Furnas and Nordeste.
21. Enjoy the views from Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
At the other end of the island from Pico do Ferro you’ll find Miradouro da Boca do Inferno. Here you’ll get views of Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa Rasa, part of the village of Sete Cidades and part of Serra Devassa.
Be aware that you can only drive so far before having to take the walkway but you don’t have to walk much further for magnificent views. That is assuming any mist has cleared; it was very misty in the morning when I visited but by later in the day it had lifted and we could actually see the lakes from above.
A reasonably easy hike is this 2.6 km out-and-back trail which should take you less than an hour to complete. There is a short steep climb at the end, which might make it a little more challenging for some. The parking lot gets busy after 9 am at peak times and the trail can feel crowded.
22. Get your fill of art at Centro de Artes Arquipélago
18 km from Ponta Delgada, in Ribeira Grande, you’ll find this contemporary arts centre. Beyond the foreboding and imposing grey exterior you’ll find a range of exhibits, from visual arts to architecture.
23. Find out why the Azores and pineapples go together
If you’d like to find out more about one of the most popular products of the island, check out one of the pineapple plantations. There are thousands of these pineapple greenhouses across the island.
The Azorean pineapple is thought to be more aromatic and less sugary and is rich in proteins and vitamins, as well as having countless therapeutic and healing properties. Sounds pretty good and it does taste delicious!
Up to the 19th century, the orange was the main fruit of the island, all until it was decimated by a nasty fungal disease.
Its replacement was chosen and in 1832 the first pineapple was introduced to the Azores from South America and cultivation soon followed. Since they are non-native, cultivating them requires special care and greenhouses but a tour is well worthwhile.
You can visit a pineapple plantation on this Full-day tour to Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.
24. Choose from the best hiking trails
São Miguel offers some excellent hiking opportunities, from crater rim trails to waterfall hikes through lush forests. We found that the tourist information offices, including the one at the airport, have excellent trail information and maps, although you should always verify trail information in advance in case of closures.
Dori and I tried to do the circular trail around the Sete Cidades crater but it was so foggy we couldn’t see the views and decided to turn back. To be honest, we were never going to do the full 20 km loop but we had hoped to see some amazing views from the rim of the crater before retracing our steps. Next time!
We were thwarted by heavy rain that made a walk around Furnas lake less appealing but that’s also supposed to be a nice one and is on the list for my next visit.
You can see the beautiful Salto do Prego waterfall, hidden in the middle of the forest, on this 3.7 km loop trail near Faial da Terra. It’s a moderately challenging route which usually takes about an hour and a half to complete.
25. Discover the joys of golfing in the Azores
São Miguel Island has 2 courses for golfers to enjoy, (with a third on the smaller island of Terceira) and both have highly-praised conditions and beautiful views.
Close to Ponta Delgada, Batalha’s tree lined fairways are a joy to play and the Furnas course provides a genuine test of skill and finesse.
For a complete rundown of golf courses found in Madeira, check out what golf travel expert Andy Waple says in this Stunning Madeira and Azores golf courses article.
FAQ
How many days do you need in São Miguel?
You need a minimum of 4–7 days on São Miguel to explore the island’s lakes, hot springs and coastal villages without rushing. If you enjoy nature and outdoor activities, you could easily spend longer.
Do you need a car in São Miguel?
Hiring a car is the easiest way to explore the island. While there are tours and some public transport, many viewpoints and hiking trails are easier to reach by car.
Is São Miguel worth visiting?
Yes. São Miguel is the most diverse island in the Azores, offering volcanic landscapes, thermal pools, whale watching and excellent hiking.
How to get to São Miguel and move around the island
The Aeroporto João Paulo II, around 3 kilometers from the capital Ponta Delgada, is Sao Miguel’s international airport so it’s relatively easy to catch a flight there. There are daily direct flights from the US and Canada but limited direct flights from the UK, although it’s straightforward to fly to Lisbon or Porto and then get a connecting flight to the island.
For getting around the island once you’re there, I’d recommend hiring a car, unless you’re using guides and drivers to get around. Roads are quiet, signage good and you get to explore loads of off-the-beaten-track places in your own good time.
👉 Compare car hire prices in São Miguel here if you want the flexibility to explore viewpoints, lakes and villages at your own pace.
If you don’t fancy getting behind the wheel yourself, there are plenty of tours to choose from, especially if you’re based in Ponta Delgada.
Where to stay on São Miguel
São Miguel has a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels in Ponta Delgada to spa hotels in Furnas and rural retreats overlooking the Atlantic.
For detailed recommendations, see:
Like this article? Pin it for later!
Had a week there and it was lovely. Weather tends to be four seasons in one day. Have a number of friends whose families come from Açores so got to see lots of places. Food is great. If you want to see some of the island on TV, there’s a series on Netflix called Rabo de Peixe on Netflix (The English version is called ‘Turn of the Tide’) set in the fishing village and surrounds of Rabo de Peixe.