by Azores Getaways Team
August 18, 2025 • 6 min read
Everything You Need to Know About Visiting São Miguel Island
Welcome to São Miguel Island! At Azores Getaways, this is home, and we’re excited to share it with you. From hidden corners to local flavors, we’ll help you discover what makes this island so special.
This guide brings together the most frequently asked questions about the largest and most visited island in the archipelago. From how to get there and when to go, to what to eat and where to stay, it’s all here to help you plan your trip with confidence.
So, if you’re curious about visiting São Miguel, keep reading our FAQ guide and get ready to explore the heart of the Azores.
Where is São Miguel Island located?
São Miguel Island is part of the Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. It lies about 1,500 kilometers west of mainland Portugal and is often referred to as "The Green Island" due to its lush landscapes and dramatic scenery.
What is São Miguel Island known for?
São Miguel is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, crater lakes like Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, relaxing geothermal hot springs in Furnas, tea plantations, and vibrant green hills. It's also famous for incredible boat tours, whale watching, rich local cuisine, and outdoor activities like hiking and canyoning.
How do I get to São Miguel Island?
You can fly directly into João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in Ponta Delgada, the island's main city. Flights are available from Lisbon, Porto, and other Azorean islands, as well as seasonal routes from North America and Europe. Inter-island flights and ferry services also connect São Miguel to the rest of the Azores islands.
What to Do in São Miguel Island?
São Miguel is packed with unique experiences. The best things to do include:
- Admire the twin lakes of Sete Cidades from Vista do Rei and Grota do Inferno Viewpoints
- Soak in the hot thermal pools of Furnas and Caldeira Velha
- Hike to the stunning Lagoa do Fogo
- Visit the tea plantations of Gorreana and Porto Formoso
- Explore the historic town of Ribeira Grande
- Join a Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
- Do an incredible Boat Tour through São Miguel's Wild North Coast
Looking for more ideas? Explore our handpicked tours and activities in São Miguel.
What is the best time to visit São Miguel?
- Best time to visit: Late May to early October – this is when São Miguel offers the best weather, with warm temperatures, blooming landscapes, and ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and boat tours.
- Peak season: July and August, perfect for enjoying vibrant festivals and beach days, but also the most crowded and expensive.
- Best for fewer crowds: Late May–June and September–early October – milder weather, fewer tourists, and still great for outdoor activities.
- Off-season: November to March, cooler, rainier months with a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing in hot springs and exploring without the crowds.
How Many Days Should I Spend in São Miguel Island?
Plan to spend at least 4 full days in São Miguel to enjoy the main highlights without feeling rushed. For a more relaxed trip with time for hiking, hot springs, and scenic drives, 5 to 7 days is ideal.
Need help planning your stay? Check out our São Miguel travel packages for ready-made itineraries and custom options.
Are There Hot Springs and Thermal Baths in São Miguel?
Yes! São Miguel Island is famous for its geothermal activity and soothing hot springs. Here are some of the top places to enjoy a warm soak:
- Poça da Dona Beija: a series of open-air thermal pools in Furnas, perfect for relaxing under the stars (tickets must be purchased online in advance).
- Terra Nostra Park: a beautiful botanical garden featuring one of the largest thermal pools on the island.
- Caldeira Velha: set in a lush forest, this natural reserve offers warm waterfalls and rustic thermal pools (online ticket purchase is required).
- Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande: a smaller but charming spot with bubbling springs and local charm, near the town center.
- Ferraria: a rare natural wonder where the ocean meets volcanic heat, creating warm sea baths in a unique coastal setting.
Tip: Bring a dark-colored swimsuit, as the iron-rich waters can stain lighter fabrics. Also, if you have dyed hair, especially blonde, avoid getting it wet in these iron-rich pools, as the minerals can alter the color.
Discover here our selection of thermal bath packages
What Are the Best Beaches in São Miguel?
Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Santa Bárbara Beach, in Ribeira Grande (great for surfing), Moinhos Beach, in Porto Formoso (known for its scenic beauty), Água d’Alto Beach, in Vila Franca do Campo (ideal for swimming and relaxing) and Pópulo Beach, in Ponta Delgada (ideal for relaxing).
What Are the Best Hikes in São Miguel?
The best hiking trails in São Miguel include the Lagoa do Fogo trail for sweeping crater views, the Cumeeiras Trail along the rim of Sete Cidades for panoramic lake scenery, and the Salto do Prego trail through dense forest to a hidden waterfall. These hikes blend volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and dramatic coastlines—ideal for nature lovers and outdoor explorers.
What Food Is Typical in São Miguel Island? What Should I Try?
São Miguel is known for hearty, flavorful dishes made with fresh local ingredients and unique volcanic cooking methods. Here are the must-try foods:
- Cozido das Furnas: A traditional stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat in the Furnas region. A true Azorean classic!
- Grilled local limpets (lapas): Freshly caught shellfish, usually grilled with garlic and butter.
- Fresh fish and seafood: Including tuna, octopus (polvo guisado), and chicharros (fried mackerel).
- Bolo lêvedo: A sweet, fluffy bread from Furnas, often eaten warm with butter or cheese.
- Queijadas da Vila: Traditional pastries from Vila Franca do Campo, made with egg yolks and sugar.
- Pineapple from São Miguel: Grown in greenhouses, it’s smaller and sweeter than regular pineapple.
Want to learn more? Discover the best traditional foods to try in São Miguel Island in our full guide.
Discover our ready-to-go packages created to fulfill your travel cravings.
Where should I stay on São Miguel Island?
São Miguel offers a wide range of places to stay, depending on your travel style. Ponta Delgada is ideal if you want easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and city comforts—top choices here include the Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico or the centrally located Azoris Royal Garden.
For a more nature-focused experience, Furnas is perfect, with unique accommodations like Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, known for its botanical park and thermal pool, or the stylish Octant Furnas.
If you’re looking for peace and ocean views, Lagoa offers options like DoubleTree by Hilton, while Nordeste is great for those who want to be surrounded by natural beauty, with relaxing stays like The Lince Nordeste Country and Nature Hotel.
From boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses to family-friendly beach resorts and eco-lodges, there’s something for everyone on São Miguel.
Do I need to rent a car in São Miguel?
Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore São Miguel, as public transportation is limited, especially outside the main towns. However, if you’d rather not drive, we strongly recommend guided tours, they’re a great alternative that allow you to experience the island’s highlights with the insight of a local expert
Know more about this topic here.
- How easy is it to drive in São Miguel? Roads are well-maintained, and signage is clear. Driving is on the right side.
- Which car rental companies are the best in São Miguel? Reliable options include Ilha Verde, Wayzor, and international brands like Europcar and Hertz.
- Where can I book a car rental in advance? It's best to book online before your trip, especially during high season.
Is São Miguel Island family-friendly?
Absolutely. There are easy trails, family-friendly hot springs, calm beaches, and boat tours. It’s a safe, welcoming destination for travelers of all ages.
Do I need to speak Portuguese?
Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and by tour operators. Learning a few basic phrases is appreciated but not required.
- Olá: Hello [oh-LAH]
- Obrigado: Thank you [oh-bree-GAH-doo] (if you are male)
- Obrigada: Thank you [oh-bree-GAH-dah] (if you are female)
- Por favor: Please [poor fah-VOHR]
- Adeus: Goodbye [ah-DEH-oosh]
- Tchau: Informal goodbye [chow]
Are There Ubers in São Miguel?
No, Uber is not available in São Miguel or anywhere in the Azores. However, Bolt, a similar ride-hailing app, is available in Ponta Delgada and nearby areas, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. Availability may be limited outside the main towns.
Are taxis expensive in São Miguel?
Taxis in São Miguel can be relatively expensive, especially for longer distances. Here's a general overview of taxi fares:
Taxi Fares from Ponta Delgada Airport
- To Ponta Delgada City Center: Approximately €8–€12 (around $9–$13) for a 5–10 minute ride.
- To Ribeira Grande: Approximately €25–€35 → $27–$38 (25-minute ride)
Please note that these fares are estimates and can vary based on factors such as time of day, baggage amount, and the specific taxi service used.
Final Tips for Visiting São Miguel Island
- Pack layers – the weather can change quickly
- Rent a car for full flexibility
- Book early if you plan to visit in high season
- Explore beyond Ponta Delgada to see the island’s true beauty
Ready to plan your trip?
Check out our latest São Miguel Island travel deals and hand-picked Azores tours to make the most of your time on the Green Island.
