São Miguel in the Azores is an amazing island. It reminded me a lot of Hawaii–specifically, a mix between the Big Island and Kauai. With volcanic landscapes, stunning coastlines, geothermal hot springs, and some of the best whale-watching in the Atlantic. São Miguel offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Every day offers something new in São Miguel, and I am already dreaming of returning! Here’s a five-day guide to help you make the most of your trip.
After you fly in to the small Ponta Delgada airport, drop your bags off at your hotel, pick up your rental car, and have a relaxing first day. Our flight landed in the early evening, so we just slept in and then headed out to explore Ponta Delgada, the island’s charming capital, on our first full day. Its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and waterfront walking paths make for a wonderful way to start the day.
Don’t miss:
Start early for one of São Miguel’s most beloved hikes in Faial da Terra for the Salto do Prego trail. This two-hour route winds through lush forest and ends at a picture-perfect waterfall. We even saw several chickens and newly hatched babies. Parking is limited, so arrive early. I would recommend parking on the street since the lot is very tiny.
After the hike, drive 35 minutes to Furnas for lunch at the Terra Nostra Hotel. Their menu features the famous cozido (volcano stew). Spend at least €45 per person at the restaurant and you’ll gain free entry to the Terra Nostra Garden and thermal pools, otherwise admission is €17. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the iron-rich waters surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens.
Afternoon lunch and the geothermal pools, check out Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões, a beautiful park with waterfalls, historic mills, and a café. You don’t need that much time here–maybe less than 30 minutes, but it’s great to see.
Continue to Nordeste, a scenic region with coastal viewpoints like Miradouro da Vista dos Barcos and Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego. I’d recommend stopping at as many viewpoints as you can along your drive. They are all clearly labeled and most have small pull off spots.
The west side of São Miguel is all about iconic crater lakes and dramatic landscapes. In the morning, drive to the Vista do Rei viewpoint which offers iconic views over the two connected lakes of Sete Cidades.
Just a short way from the parking lot is one of the most photogenic spots on the island at the Boca do Inferno viewpoint. An optional hike could include The Lagoa do Canário–Boca do Inferno–Pico da Cruz loop, a 2.8-mile trail with stunning views.
Afterwards, head to Ponta da Ferraria, a natural ocean pool heated by volcanic hot springs. Timing is key—go at mid-tide to enjoy comfortably warm water. Bring water shoes or strapped sandals because you have to walk across volcanic rocks to enter the water!
In the evening, head to Mosteiros, a coastal town known for seafood restaurants and sunset views.
Dedicate this day to São Miguel’s dramatic central highlands.
Get an early start today! Visit Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake for a wonderful hike. You can choose between a challenging 11 km hike (about 4 hours) or a shorter 4 km route (90 minutes to 2 hours) that descends steeply from the viewpoint, including a ladder at one point. Try to arrive by 8 am to avoid parking restrictions or take the shuttle bus for €5.
Tip: we noticed that Google Maps said the road to Lagoa do Fogo trailhead was closed, so we took a detour to get there. However, the road is only closed past 9am. So once you are in and parked at the trailhead, you can easily exit.
Just down the hill from Lagoa do Fogo is Caldeira Velha, a lush nature reserve with waterfalls and hot springs. Tickets are €10 and must be booked in advance.
Final tip:
Our favorite restaurant in São Miguel was Jose do Rego, and we ate there twice on the trip! I’d highly recommend their seafood stew for 2 people. There’s a large parking lot in the back with a friendly sheep who dines on the weeds.
And if you have time, visit the Vila Franca Do Campo area! You can walk around, take a ferry to the small island, or even kayak there.
Other posts you may enjoy:
Review of Gate 1 9 Day Alpine Christmas Markets
What to Pack for a 2 Week Cruise
