Best Azores Beaches By Type of Traveler
From soft black sands to tranquil natural pools, the Azores offer a perfect beach for every traveler. The nine islands feature a mix of volcanic black sand beaches and rugged coastlines, ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling, and surfing. The dramatic volcanic landscape provides a stunning backdrop to the crystal-clear waters, making Azores beaches a top destination for adventure and relaxation alike.
Whether you are looking for a family holiday or chasing the best wave, you have a variety of options to choose from. Each beach in the Azores has its own unique charm, character, and activities, so there is a beach suited to you.
Unique Beaches
Vila Franca do Campo (São Miguel Island)
Vila Franca do Campo features a small islet surrounded by crystal-clear waters. This volcanic formation creates a lovely, tranquil beach perfect for families and snorkeling. The islet became even more popular after Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in 2015 and four more times after that.
The only way to the island is by sea. You can either ride the ferry or hop on a zodiac boat. Or, since the island is less than a mile out, you can join a guided kayak tour to get there. The authorities capped the maximum number of visitors at 200 to be on the island at the same time.
Have you ever swum and snorkel inside a volcanic crater? In Vila Franca do Campo, you can. Inside the lagoon, you will find a small beach with limited facilities but with a lifeguard station. The waters are calm enough to swim, snorkel, and relax. If you are up for it, there is a short walkway with multiple scenic viewpoints.
Praia do Barro Vermelho (Graciosa Island)
The Azores Islands are home to many black sand beaches and a few golden brown ones, but Praia do Barro Vermelho on Graciosa Island stands out as the only red sand beach. This small yet charming beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers easy access to the ocean.
Surprisingly, Praia do Barro Vermelho is located right next to the airport. While the beach lacks facilities, it may not be perfect to spend a whole day here, but it can be a unique experience and short visit during a road trip around the island.
Fajã Grande (Flores Island)
The beach at Fajã Grande on Flores Island is one of the most scenic spots in the Azores. Not because it is the westernmost point of Europe (!), but because if you turn your back on the beach, you will see a stunning waterfall, Cascata do Poço do Bacalhau, cascading down a giant cliff. You can walk up to the bottom of the waterfall on a paved path. It is an easy walk, but can be slippery.
The beach lies between Fajã Grande and Ponta da Fajã, the latter of the two is actually a cul-de-sac village. It means the road goes as far as the Igreja de Nossa Senhora Do Carmo and the starting point of the difficult PR01 FLO trail (currently closed – 2024).
Praia de São Lourenço (Santa Maria Island)
The most striking feature is the white washed cottages with terraced vineyards at the bottom of a steep, dramatic hillside that look over the bay of São Lourenço. It looks like an amphitheatre, doesn’t it?
The above photo was taken from a nearby viewpoint called Miradouro de São Lourenço. The Azores are known for their incredible viewpoints due to the islands’ volcanic origins and elevated terrain. I recommend visiting Miradouro da Pedra Rija on the way to the beach since you can see the whole valley and in the middle of the town of Santa Barbara.
The beach at São Lourenço Bay is a beautiful sandy beach with clear calm waters. It is one of the most picturesque beaches on Santa Maria Island. On the beach you can also find a swimming pool filled with seawater.
Best Beaches for Families
What makes a beach family-friendly? If it features shallow waters and amenities that cater to both children and adults. As a mother of two, I know that having multiple activities and things to do nearby is a huge bonus.
Praia do Fogo (São Miguel Island)
Praia do Fogo on São Miguel Island is a stunning black sand beach with warm waters thanks to natural underwater hot springs. The beach is located near Ribeira Quente, which you can easily reach by car from Furnas in 15 minutes. Look out the windows while you get there as you may spot several waterfalls along the road including the stunning Cascata da Ribeira Quente (see photo below).
READ ON – How to Rent a Car in the Azores? (Info, Steps, Photos)
The waves are gentle and the black sand is warm, but that can be said about most beaches on the southern side of the island. It is a nice wide EEC Blue Flag beach, perfect for relaxing or swimming.
There is a huge parking lot right at the beach with a lovely café called Costa Sul offering a wide variety of dishes and stunning view from its terrace. Public restrooms are on the ground floor.
WHERE TO STAY IN FURNAS – How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Furnas?
Praia do Porto Pim (Faial Island)
Praia do Porto Pim has a unique location because it sits in a naturally sheltered bay on Faial Island, protected by Monte da Guia, an ancient volcanic cone. This strategic position not only provides calm waters, but it also played a key role in the island’s history as a whaling and trading port.
Praia do Porto Pim is even more special for families because of its wide variety of activities.
- Enjoy a relaxing day on the calm, sandy beach, perfect for kids to swim and play safely.
- Stroll along the marina and check out the colorful murals left by sailors, or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafés.
- For those who enjoy nature, an easy hike up Monte da Guia offers beautiful views of the bay as well as Pico mountain. Or take a private walking tour with local guides.
- Visit the Porto Pim Whale Factory Museum to learn more about the history of whaling.
You will find showers and restrooms, and ample parking. The picturesque scenery definitely adds to the experience, making this beach a must-visit for families on Faial Island.
Praia de Almoxarife (Faial Island)
Why would you want to add Praia de Almoxarife to your list? Because this beach has one of the best views of Pico Mountain. If you are not traveling to Pico Island, this is as close as you can get.
Praia de Almoxarife, located on Faial Island, is a beautiful black sand beach that offers calm waters and stunning views. It is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
This beach is also family-friendly, with its long shore and shallow waters. There is a restaurant at the northern side called Bliss Beach Club. You can find a camping with canvas tent called Bearsu Naturale, and several homestays around the beach. It is easy to spend a full day here.
Praia Formosa (Santa Maria Island)
As a contrast to most beaches in the Azores, Praia Formosa, situated on Santa Maria Island, is not a black sand beach, but a golden brown one. It is another excellent choice for families since the beach’s shallow waters suitable for swimming for all ages.
There are numerous dining options nearby, offering local cuisine. However, it is a small town with limited shops and grocery stores. A campsite and multiple accommodation options are available. Most has uninterrupted views towards the ocean.
There is a bus stop right next to a small parking lot near the entrance to the beach. But there is ample parking along the shore later on.
Beaches with Natural Swimming Pools
The Azores have many natural swimming pools due to the islands’ volcanic origins. When volcanic lava flows reached the ocean, they cooled and formed rocky coastal formations that now create protected pools.
Ponta da Ferraria (São Miguel Island)
Ponta da Ferraria must be one of the most famous beaches with natural swimming pools in the Azores. The largest pool lies at the exact spot where the thermal waters meet the cooler seawater, creating an exciting contrast.
Visitors flock to the beach to experience this unique environment. Avoid the crowds by going early or late, and avoid summer middays. The pool can be relaxing and rejuvenating, enhanced by the scenic cliffs and crashing waves. But if you are traveling with kids, check the tide information, as locals don’t recommend going there with kids during high tide.
It is easy to spend a half or an entire day there, if you try the facilities of Termas Da Ferraria. Make the most of your day by having a relaxing spa treatment and eat at the restaurant.
The parking lot is quite large, but the road down is narrow and steep, but made of concrete. It is best to drive carefully, especially if you are not used to mountain roads. Alternatively, some visitors prefer to park at the top and walk down to enjoy the scenic views along the way. But you need to walk back up, which can be challenging.
Praia dos Mosteiros (São Miguel Island)
Praia dos Mosteiros, on the northwest coast of São Miguel Island, is known for its striking volcanic rock formations and vibrant natural pools. But this beach is particularly stunning because it offers two distinct experiences in one beautiful location.
On one side, you will find a stretch of black sand with large waves crashing against the shore. From here, you can see the iconic Islets of Mosteiros. Even if you are not an avid birder, you can easily spot flocks of birds from the shore, as they often perch on top of the islets. We surely saw lots.
But as you go North, the atmosphere changes as the rocky formations are getting more rugged by each step. If you arrive at low tide, you can swim in the tide pools without interruption or look for small marine creatures that thrive in them. To see the sheer size, can you spot the person in blue in my photo below?
As the day winds down, the beach becomes an amazing spot to watch the sunset. The stunning views make it a paradise for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Fajã Caldeira Santo Cristo (São Jorge island)
Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, located on São Jorge Island in the Azores, is a tranquil oasis. It is more like a lagoon than a tidal pool, but nonetheless, it is a calm, natural swimming pool. Due to past volcanic activity and landslides, this stunning area was born between towering cliffs and the sea.
One of the most exciting aspects of this beach is its isolation. You cannot get more remote than this since it can only be reached on foot via a scenic 6-mile-long hiking trail. If you don’t want to hike alone, take a local guide with you.
The area is part of a protected nature reserve partly because it is one of the only places in the Azores where clams (Amêijoas) naturally grow in the lagoon.
Manhenha (Pico Island)
If you are seeking a quiet escape with a natural pool, the small town of Manhenha could be just right for you. Located on the remote eastern tip of Pico Island, it is far away from the more frequently visited areas near Madalena. Did you know that The World Tourism Organization (WTO) recognized Vila da Madalena, the Azores’ charming wine capital, as one of the 2023’s Best Tourism Villages. It stands out as one of only 10 wine-growing regions globally honored with UNESCO Heritage Site status.
As you drive around Pico Island, you will notice plenty of terraced vineyards, and Manhenha is no exception. If you are heading to the natural pool, there is a small parking area near the tiny harbor. The pool is located just across the harbor.
Around the beach, you can enjoy a picnic on the black sand or take a peaceful 10-minute walk to the nearby lighthouse. The area is quiet and perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Anjos (Santa Maria Island)
The Zona Balnear dos Anjos is actually a combination of natural pool and swimming pool. It lies on the Northern side of Santa Maria Island. Since the island is small, you can get there by car in 12-15 minutes from the city center of Vila do Porto. There is ample parking and a restaurant right at the edge called Bar dos Anjos.
The Anjos natural pool on Santa Maria Island is unique because it’s partly natural and partly man-made. One side is open to the ocean, allowing fresh seawater to flow in. But the other side has concrete walls and stairs providing both safety and easy access for swimmers.
Nearby, you will also find a bit of history. There is a statue of Christopher Columbus, marking an unexpected stopover here due to storms. If you are wondering while both the name of the island and the name of Columbus ship is Santa Maria, there is no connection.
Beaches for Surfing and Water Sports
Generally, north-facing shores tend to be more rugged, with larger waves and dramatic landscapes, while southern beaches are typically calmer and more family-friendly, offering gentler waters ideal for swimming and relaxation.
Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara (São Miguel Island)
Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara is an expansive black sand beach renowned for its consistent waves attracting beginner and experienced surfers. The beach lies close to Riberia Grande, the second-largest city on the island of São Miguel.
Joseph Richard Francis from Surf Atlas recommends this beach since, especially during the winter months, heavy beach breaks from head-on north swells create powerful sets that spread across the beach and provide multiple peaks suitable for surfers of all levels. The spinning barrels have even gained recognition in international competitions like the European Qualifying Series of the World Surf League.
In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy bodyboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing. You can also join a surf school that provides board and wetsuit rentals.
Praia dos Mosteiros (São Miguel Island)
I wrote about Mosteiros beach as a recommendation for family-friendly beaches. We spend a whole day there alternating between the beach and the natural pools. However, in low tide the sea turns into a perfect spot for surfers. Actually there are two perfect spots, one at the beach and one at the port.
Praia dos Mosteiros lies on the northwest coast of São Miguel Island. It is a long black sand beach with dramatic cliffs surrounding it from the West. Not just Surfer Today but many other surfing website place Mosteiros at the top of their list of best beaches for surfing in the Azores.
Praia da Vitória (Terceira Island)
Praia da Vitória, located on Terceira Island in the Azores, is a fantastic destination for water sports, including windsurfing and kitesurfing. According to Surfer Today, the strong northeastern winds, especially from autumn through spring, create ideal conditions. The spacious bay and long sandy beach provide plenty of room for launching and riding, which earned this place to be one of the Formula Windsurfing World Championships hosts several times now.
Besides surfing, visitors can enjoy hiking scenic coastal trails, exploring historical sites like the Igreja Matriz de Santa Cruz and Fort of Santa Catarina, and diving or snorkeling in the clear waters. The town center offers charming shops and restaurants, while the marina is a hub for boat tours and events.
Santa Catarina (Terceira Island)
Right next to Praia da Vitória, there is Santa Catarina. It is renowned as one of the most famous bodyboarding slabs in Europe. Known for its powerful, tubular, flat-bottom waves, the spot breaks close to the rocks, earning it the nickname “deadly princess.”
It has hosted national and world bodyboarding events, making it a top destination for pros. Surfers access the water via a small ramp in a sheltered part of the bay.
These are just three of the many popular and unique surf spots, but there are several others worth exploring in the Azores. Surfer Today highlights some of the the best surf spots, showcasing a variety of breaks and waves suitable for different skill levels. Whether you are seeking challenging slabs or more mellow waves, the Azores offer something for every surfer.
When to go?
Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming hydrangeas, ideal for outdoor activities, but maybe not yet warm enough for swimming. Average temperatures range from 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F). Spring is also the season for the Portuguese man o’ war, when the shores are filled with them.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season. Temperatures can reach up to 26°C (79°F). This period is popular for swimming and sunbathing, as the ocean waters are warmer.
Autumn (September to November) starts with pleasant weather, making September one of the best times to visit. Temperatures range from 19°C to 24°C (66°F to 75°F). Crowds diminish, enabling a more serene beach experience.
Winter (December to February) tends to be cooler with a higher chance of rain. Average temperatures drop to around 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). While swimming is less common, it is surfing season.
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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.