The top 7 beaches in the Azores

24.04.2024 - 15:11 / lonelyplanet.com

The beaches of the Azores have it all. On some islands you'll find ocean pools naturally carved in the rugged coast or perhaps soft black-sand beaches. Sometimes the best spot recommended by locals has a mix of both.

For travelers used to hotter weather it will always feel like it's never quite warm enough to swim in the Azores, but it just takes some getting used to. Beach-going weather in the summer can last a whole month; however, expect that to be interspersed with showers that turn up humidity levels up to 90%.

The one thing that can dampen your beach plans for the day: finding a large patch of jellyfish in the ocean or washing over the sand — the Portuguese man-of-wars are particularly dangerous and are being spotted more frequently every year. Make sure you keep an eye on local conditions as you explore these top beaches in the Azores. 

Best beach for wellness 

Protected from the ocean by a nature-made low wall of rocks, the calm turquoise waters of the swimming pool in Carapacho on Graciosa Island keep at a welcoming temperature practically all year long — unless, of course, the currents are too strong for a safe swim.

This village in the southeast is more popular during the thermal season, typically from May to September, but most visitors head to Termas do Carapacho just steps away. It is believed that the water in the thermal baths and natural pool has healing properties.

Best beach for sunsets

Fajã Grande on the west coast of Flores Island is a locals’ favourite summer destination, with many having a second home there to spend the weekends. The beach is a small patch of black sand wedged between the old port and the cliffs, close to restaurants, cafes, picnic areas and a free parking lot. For younger kids who haven’t learned how to swim yet, there’s a shallow pool near the beach restaurant where they can splash around.

Local tip: More than the balmy and sunny summer weather, people stay here from morning to night to see the sunset on Europe’s westernmost island.

Planning your first trip to the Azores? Save this guide for all you need to know. 

Most popular beach

About 30km from Ponta Delgada and popular with locals, Praia dos Mosteiros on São Miguel’s west coast gets busy on the weekends during peak season – onsite facilities, a bus stop within walking distance and free parking only steps from the stretch of sand make it the perfect spot for a full day on the beach.

Local tip: For experienced surfers (waves break into the rocks here), this is one of the best spots on the island to catch some waves. 

Best city beach 

It’s one of the largest beaches in the Azores and one of the most popular swimming spots on Terceira Island. Praia Grande sits right below Praia da Vitória’s seaside avenue in