Azores Holidays

Destination Highlights

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Beaches | Hotels | Nightlife | Food | Events | Things to do | Weather | Important information | Reviews |

What are the best beaches in the Azores?

The islands of the Azores offer unique and wonderful beaches, from relaxing, soft sandy shores to rocky coastal spots surrounded by beautiful greenery.

• Formosa Beach – located on Santa Maria island, this beach features fine white sand and calm, clear waters, making it a dream for those who simply want to relax the day away.
• Vila Franca Beach – over on Sao Miguel, the Vila Franca Beach is not only a lovely spot to relax, but also features a crater from an extinct volcano and is a brilliant place for snorkeling as it is home to a variety of tropical fish.
• Santa Barbara Beach – a beautiful and spacious beach located on Sao Miguel, Santa Barbara Beach is a must-visit for watersport lovers and is great for those who want to relax on a busy shore without feeling crowded.
• Porto Pim Beach – on the island of Faial, Porto Pim Beach is set in an old fishing village but is a stunning soft sandy beach that sits by the beautiful blue sea.
• Caldeira do Santo Cristo Beach – one for the adventure seekers on Sao Jorge, this rocky beach is reachable through the beautiful neighbouring nature reserve and has multiple surf houses for those who want to brave the waves!

What are the top hotels in the Azores?

If you’re seeking a getaway with endless stunning views, then you can’t go wrong with Azores holidays. Not only are the islands covered in incredible, lush nature, but the hotels are definitely something to shout about too! Here are some of our favourite stays on the islands:

• Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa - located by the sea and featuring a tranquil spa and stunning infinity pool, this five-star hotel is a perfect pick for a relaxing stay in Calhetas.
• Ponta Delgada - a three-star stay with stylish interiors, this hotel may be more of a budget pick but still offers outstanding service, spa facilities and a wonderful on-site restaurant.
• Santa Barbara Eco Beach Resort - situated on Santa Barbra Beach on Sao Miguel, this unique four-star hotel offers rooms with pool access, beautiful interiors and a range of outdoor activities that are perfect for exploring the surroundings.
• Furnas Boutique Hotel Thermal & Spa - a hidden gem in San Miguel’s countryside, this four-star hotel offers the ultimate relaxing stay with sleek interiors and an exceptional spa.
• Pestana Bahia Praia - with direct access to Baia de Água d'Alto Beach, a spacious outdoor pool and a games room, this four-star hotel is a fantastic choice for a beach break to the Azores.
• Azoris Royal Garden Hotel - a luxury hotel located centrally in Ponta Delgada, guests can enjoy the spa facilities, outdoor pool and on-site restaurant whilst in easy reach of all that the capital has to offer.

What's the food like in the Azores?

Holidays to the Azores are an adventure. Not only can you explore what each unique island has to offer, but you can also discover the delicious local cuisine of the Azores that will bring your taste buds to life! Try these tasty dishes when you’re there:

• Azores pineapples – a little smaller than your usual pineapple but juicier and sweeter! You’ll find it in local dishes, both savoury and sweet.
• Black sausage – similar to our black pudding but with its own twist, black pudding in the Azores differs in recipe and you can taste it in the seasoning!
• Cozido das Furnas - a delicious stew cooked by burying the pot in volcanic soil, this completely unique dish is a must-try when in the Azores.
• Cheese – the islands are known for their fresh local cheese and it does not disappoint, so make sure to try out some Azorean cheeses when on your holiday.
• Fresh fish – surrounded by the Atlantic, these islands are great for those who love a fresh catch. Try out the tuna, mackerel and moray eels for delightful dining experiences.

Where’s the best nightlife in the Azores?

Although the Azores Islands aren’t particularly known for their nightlife, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an evening out in one of the fabulous bars that the island has to offer! Check out these spots when on your Azores holiday:

• Raiz - located in Ponta Delgada, this popular nightclub is the place to go for a fun night out dancing and meeting new people.
• Baía dos Anjos - enjoy delightful drinks with fabulous views of the promenade and marina in Ponta Delgada at this popular bar.
• Arco 8 - if you’re looking for a cool evening out, head to this converted factory in Santa Clara, Ponta Delgada to see some live music or simply enjoy a drink with friends or a loved one.
• Lava Jazz - another venue that features live music, Lava Jazz in Ponta Delgada is the place to see live Jazz in a cosy atmosphere.
• Peter Café Sport - over on Faial Island, Peter Café Sport is a must-visit as it’s known for being the most famous café of the Azores with its fantastic history.
• Blues Bar - music enthusiasts can enjoy drinks and tunes with fantastic live acts at the Blues Bar in Praia da Vitória.

Things to do in the Azores

Whale watching

Whale watching is an incredible experience wherever you do it, but there’s something different about whale watching in the Azores. The islands’ waters are rich with nutrients, which means that there’s a variety of species to discover – from sperm whales to pilot whales!

Hike Mount Pico

There’s plenty of hiking to be done in the Azores, but one unforgettable trek is to the top of Mount Pico. Located on Pico Island, this mountain is the highest point in the Azores at over 2000 metres high and may be a challenge, but is worth it for the incredible views along the way.

Angra do Heroismo

The ancient capital of the Azores and a UNESCO heritage site, Angra do Heroismo on the Terceira Island is a stunning city that’s a must-visit when in the Azores. Wander the narrow colourful streets and discover the historic buildings that make the city so spectacular.

Visit the vineyards

Over on Pico Island you’ll find vineyards like no other, as they’re located on volcanic rock! Visit the wine museum or enjoy guided tours of the wineries and make sure to taste the delicious Azorean wine too.

Sete Cidades

Discover the famous crater on Sao Miguel Island. Hike the peaks, explore the charming streets of the village within the crater, or kayak your way along the stunning lakes. If you’re a bit of a daredevil, you can also explore the terrain on quadbikes!

Bathe in the thermal springs

Around Furnas on the island of Soa Miguel, natural thermal springs bubble away and are perfect for a rejuvenating soak. Dip into one of the therapeutic pools or go all out on a day tour where you can discover the beautiful natural surroundings as well.

What's the weather like in the Azores?

The Azores offer warm summers and mild winters, with average temperatures ranging between 20°c and 22°c between July and September. If you love to spend your days on the beach, the average sea temperatures reach 24°c in August and September.

Important Information about travelling to the Azores

How long does it take to fly to the Azores?

It takes about 4 hours to fly to the Azores from the UK.

What’s the time difference between the UK and the Azores?

The Azores are 1 hour behind the UK.

What currency do they use in the Azores?

The official currency of the Azores is the Euro.

What language do they speak in the Azores?

The official language spoken in the Azores is Portuguese.

Do I need any vaccinations to visit the Azores?

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to the Azores?

There is no tourist tax in the Azores.

Will Covid-19 affect my holiday to the Azores?

We are currently closely following the Covid-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to the Azores on the FCO website.

Customer reviews

At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers to the Azores for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.