Curator’s statement
You're familiar with, and may have already visited, Lisbon, Porto, or even the Algarve—but the Azores are a frequently overlooked destination that deserves its own trip. The largest island in Portugal's Azorean archipelago, São Miguel is small enough to never feel intimidating but full of adventure, from hiking to farm-to-table dining to whale watching and canyoning. Within a single drive, you can experience four seasons, as well as volcanic calderas, blue-green crater lakes, and a landscape that shifts from steaming geothermal fields to pastoral valleys full of cows. In keeping with the spirit of the Azores, I stayed at an eco-beachfront property that felt luxurious without being fussy. Just a nonstop flight away from major Northeast cities like New York and Boston, São Miguel deserves a top spot on your travel list.
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Things to do in São Miguel
View from above Sete Cidades
Hiking
São Miguel is a perfect destination for amateur hikers or groups with varying activity levels—for context, I didn't own a pair of hiking boots before this trip. There are around 30 official routes that are mapped, signposted, and maintained by the government, classified as PR (Pequena Rota / Small Routes) and GR (Grande Rota / Great Routes), with a mix of point-to-point and circular options. You can download maps online, and the SpotAzores app offers live webcam views of trail conditions, which is especially helpful on foggy days. That said, the variety of routes works in your favor no matter the weather. For example, on a misty day, you can opt for a hike through Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande, lush woodlands at sea level that don't require clear skies for the full experience. Save the sunny day for Sete Cidades.
Sete Cidades
This is the iconic view of the Azores—a stunning caldera lake that appears half blue, half green depending on where you're standing. Hike up or hire a driver to bring you to the vista in a Land Rover. Seeing it in person does not disappoint.
Thermal hot springs or spa
The natural geothermal pools are a great way to ease sore legs.
Explore Ponta Delgada
Wander the city center and take in the distinctive black-and-white architecture—the Portas da Cidade (Gates of the City) are a must-see.
Whale watching
Three main operators depart from different marinas, offering options ranging from larger catamarans to speedboats for the more adventurous. April through June is the sweet spot, when migration season brings the best chance of seeing blue, humpback, and sperm whales.
Kayaking
Both Furnas and Sete Cidades lakes are great for self-guided kayaking.
Canyoning
For those truly without fear, there are a number of canyoning excursion options through various tour platforms. Reach out to me for help choosing!
Beach
I'd recommend staying at a beachfront property if your budget allows—nothing beats waking up to ocean views, and it gives you the flexibility to have a relaxed morning or afternoon by the water (either on the sand or by a pool) between adventures. Some beaches also offer good conditions for surfing.
Places to eat & drink in São Miguel
Portas da Cidade (Gates of the City)
Our most memorable dining experiences were the ones that leaned into what the island does best: fresh seafood, farm-to-table dining, and tea.
Sushi
There are a number of sushi restaurants across the island. Ōtaka, a high-end Japanese fusion restaurant in Ponta Delgada, stood out because they use local Azorean fish for sushi and have creative tasting menu options.
Quinta dos Sabores
A true farm-to-table experience—there is no menu. The chef prepares a multi-course meal based on whatever was harvested from the farm that day.
Gorreana Tea Plantation
The oldest and only working tea plantation in Europe. I enjoyed stopping here to see the machines in action, plus refueling with a tea tasting and snacks.
Bar Caloura
This is a good spot for fresh fish on the island. Tucked into a tiny fishing harbor, grab a seat on their terrace overlooking the Atlantic.
Queijadas do Morgado
When the sweet tooth calls, stop in for authentic Portuguese pastries (also available at the airport, making a great souvenir).
Need to know
The sweet spot for a visit is May through September, when the weather is most stable and whale watching, hiking, and beach days are all in play.
For the hydrangea lovers: plan your visit between June and August, when every road on the island is lined with these flowers in full bloom.
A rental car is essential. The island's best experiences are spread out and not easily accessible otherwise.
Pack layers and a waterproof jacket. Hiking boots are also a must, even for more casual trails.
Book Cozido das Furnas at least 24 hours in advance—it's a traditional stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat and worth planning your day around.
Plan for 4–5 days, which gives you enough time for a variety of hikes and activities while still leaving room to relax.
Travel Advisor
Lauren Lockett
Lauren Lockett
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Azores page.