Find Out the Best Experiences & Activities To Do in São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island serves as your perfect gateway to an epic Azores vacation, and with our unbeatable travel deals, your dream trip is within reach! Enhance your visit with our handpicked activities and tour recommendations, and immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and unique local insights of the Azores. Our expertly curated guide ensures you discover only the best of São Miguel’s attractions and hidden gems. Prepare for an unforgettable island experience that will leave you with lasting memories!
The activities and tours listed below come highly recommended, but feel free to explore the wide range of additional activities we offer. Check them here!
1. Whale Watching in São Miguel Island, Azores
The Azores Islands are celebrated for their stunning beauty and rich biodiversity, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. They are also emerging as a top whale watching destination, home to over 20 species of whales and dolphins, making it one of the largest whale sanctuaries globally.
We offer a wide selection of whale watching tours, so look no further. Book yours today!
If you are staying in Ponta Delgada here are some options that could be close from your accomodation:
- Half Day Whale Wathing: Catamaran Style
2. Discover Europe's Largest Gin Collection at the Gin Library
Explore the Gin Library, renowned as Europe's largest collection with over 600 bottles from 43 countries. Hosted by Ali Bullock, owner of the Gin Library and creator of Baleia Gin, you'll learn the secrets to crafting the perfect Gin & Tonic using Baleia Gin. While sipping your Gin & Tonic, take the chance to snap photos and videos of this distinctive venue. Ali and his team are available to field any questions about his extensive collection of gins from across the globe and to provide details about the Solar Branco Eco Estate, the proud home of the Gin Library. You can either:
- Learn How to Make the Perfect Gin & Tonic
3. Book Your Unforgettable Wine Tasting Experience in São Miguel Island
Wine tastings in São Miguel transcend mere sips. They're immersive journeys, connecting you to the island's volcanic soul, rich culture, and the passionate winemakers behind each exquisite bottle. Book your wine tasting experience here!
4. Cook your Own Cozido das Furnas in a Authentic Food Experience
Cooking your own Cozido das Furnas is a quintessential Azorean culinary experience that combines traditional cooking methods with a unique geothermal twist, right in the heart of São Miguel Island. This celebrated dish, made using the natural volcanic heat from the geothermal vents in Furnas, offers a fascinating insight into the local culture and cuisine. This immersive experience offers both a delicious feast and a deeper appreciation of the island's unique geothermal landscape. Discover our curated selection of cozido experiences below:
- Make Your Own Cozido in Furnas (Caldeiras Cooking Included)!
- Have the experience of this traditional dish on your own!
5. Explore The Attractions of Ponta Delgada City
Find out the top must see and do things in Ponta Delgada, the vibrant capital of São Miguel Island, where Azorean culture, history, and modernity converge. These are some of our few suggestions:
- Stroll through Ponta Delgada's charming streets adorned with Portuguese black and white basalt buildings.
- Discover key landmarks like the 16th-century São Sebastião Church and the iconic Portas da Cidade.
- Visit the bustling Mercado da Graça to shop for fresh local produce and seafood.
- Explore the Carlos Machado Museum for insights into Azorean culture and history, and unwind in the lush Antonio Borges Garden.
- Ponta Delgada is also a prime spot for whale watching, offering glimpses of diverse marine life right from the city.
We also offer guided city walking tours in Ponta Delgada or Ponta Delgada Food Tours, allowing you to explore these famous sites with the assistance of an expert guide. Learn more here!
6. Discover São Miguel Island With E-Bike Tours and Biking Adventures
Explore São Miguel Island' alluring volcanic landscapes by mountain bike for a unique and exhilarating experience. This island boasts a plethora of trails ideal for all levels, as well as an array of fascinating nature and unusual volcanic terrain. From biking in Sete Cidades to e-biking in Ribeira Grande, we offer a variety of cycling options for you to enjoy. Ready to roll? Don't miss out! Book your São Miguel Island biking adventure today!
7. Stand Up Paddle, Canoeing & Kayaking in São Miguel Island
If you prefer to explore on your own without booking tours or activities, Lagoa das Sete Cidades is an ideal spot for an authentic stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking experience. Conveniently, you'll find a local supplier near the lagoon ready to equip you with everything you need to make this adventure a reality. Don't just see São Miguel Island, experience it! Book your SUP, kayaking, or canoeing adventure today!
8. Golfing in São Miguel Island, Azores
The breathtaking landscape is the perfect setting for unforgettable rounds of golf in the pure, natural environment of the Azores. There are currently three golf courses on the islands, 2 with 18 holes and 1 with 27 holes. On São Miguel, Batalha overlooks the sea and is the newest and most challenging course while Furnas (located in the mountains at an altitude of 500m/1,640ft) is sprinkled with lakes and stands of Japanese Cryptomeria. Explore our golfing options here!
9. Discover São Miguel's Hidden Gems on an Exciting Jeep Tour Safari Adventure
Jeep tours in São Miguel offer an adventurous journey off the beaten path, guiding you through lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and dramatic coastlines. The specially equipped vehicles are perfectly suited for the island's diverse terrain, from steep inclines to rugged trails, providing an exhilarating adventure. This is a fantastic way to explore the hidden treasures of São Miguel Island. Book your jeep tour adventure today!
10. Visit the Oldest Tea Factory in Europe
Visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the oldest tea factory in Europe. Established in 1883, Gorreana has been producing organic, high-quality teas using traditional methods for over a century. The plantation offers a unique opportunity to explore the lush green tea fields, learn about the ancient tea-making processes, and sample freshly brewed teas with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
11. Horseback Riding in São Miguel Island
Horseback riding in São Miguel Island is a captivating way to explore the lush, volcanic landscape of this Azorean paradise. With its rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and expansive coastal views, São Miguel provides an idyllic backdrop for equestrian adventures. Book Your Horseback Riding Adventure Today!
12. São Miguel Island Boat Tours: Unveiling Coastlines, Marine Life & Volcanic Wonders
Discover the breathtaking coastlines of São Miguel Island on an unforgettable boat tour that circles the entire island. Explore the iconic Vila Franca do Campo Islet, where crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life await. For an even more immersive experience, opt for a glass-bottom boat and witness the wonders of the underwater world directly below. This comprehensive experience showcases the diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty of São Miguel's north and south shores, making it an unmissable adventure for any island visitor. Discover our boat rides and tours here!
13. Float in a Heated Pool Inside a Pineapple Greenhouse
Imagine the unique and delightful experience of floating in a heated pool nestled inside a pineapple greenhouse. This one-of-a-kind retreat offers a perfect blend of relaxation and novelty. As you unplug from the daily hustle and drift in the warm, soothing waters, you'll be surrounded by the lush greenery of thriving pineapple plants. The warmth of the greenhouse enhances the overall experience, creating a tropical sanctuary where you can unwind and rejuvenate.
14. Hiking in São Miguel Island
Hiking in São Miguel Island offers a spectacular way to explore the lush landscapes and diverse natural wonders of this Azorean paradise. With a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, São Miguel caters to all levels of hikers. Here are our top recommendations for the best hiking experiences on the island:
1. Salto do Cabrito: This scenic trail leads you through a forested area to a stunning waterfall. It's a relatively easy hike, making it accessible for most fitness levels, and the reward is a beautiful view of the cascading water amid lush greenery.
2. Lagoa do Fogo: One of the most breathtaking hikes on the island takes you to Lagoa do Fogo, or Lake of Fire. The trail can be challenging, but you're treated to incredible views of a pristine crater lake surrounded by high cliffs and native vegetation.
3. Gorreana Tea Plantation: For a unique hiking experience, the trails around Gorreana Tea Plantation allow you to wander through Europe's oldest and only tea plantations. The green, rolling tea fields contrast beautifully with the blue ocean in the distance, and you can learn about tea production and sample fresh tea directly from the source.
4. Boca do Inferno: This hike offers some of the most spectacular views on São Miguel. Starting from Sete Cidades, the trail leads up to a viewpoint overlooking the twin lakes and the ocean. The path can be steep at parts, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort.
5. Salto do Prego: A favorite among locals, this trail takes you through dense forests to a hidden waterfall. It’s an enchanting place to swim and enjoy a picnic, completely immersed in the serenity of nature.
Each of these trails offers a unique perspective on the stunning natural beauty of São Miguel Island. Find out more Hking trails in São Miguel Island!
15. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in São Miguel Island
For those seeking an accessible underwater adventure, snorkeling in São Miguel is perfect. With just a mask, fins, and snorkel, you can witness a dazzling array of marine life. Explore the iconic Vila Franca do Campo Islet, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This calm volcanic crater lake boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. The dramatic northern Mosteiros Coast offers a different underwater experience, with lava rock formations attracting a kaleidoscope of marine creatures. Book your snorkeling or scuba diving excursion today and embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure!
16. Bird Watching in São Miguel Island
The crown jewel of Azorean birds, the critically endangered Azores Bullfinch, calls São Miguel Island home. Found only in a small, specific area, this beauty is a top reason for avid birders to flock to the island. To maximize your chances of spotting this elusive bird, consider joining a guided birding tour. Led by experienced professionals, these tours offer invaluable knowledge about the island's best birding locations, the calls of different bird species, and responsible birding practices that ensure minimal disturbance to the birds and their habitat. Book Your Bird Watching Trip to São Miguel Island Today!
17. Canyoning in São Miguel Island
São Miguel's volcanic past has sculpted a network of deep ravines and cascading waterfalls. Canyoning tours take you on an exploration of these hidden gems, following watercourses carved by nature over millennia. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a curious beginner, there's a canyoning experience for you. Tours range from beginner-friendly adventures with gentle waterfalls and easy jumps to more challenging courses with higher rappels and exciting natural water slides. Secure your place in this unforgettable adventure today!
18. Coastering in São Miguel Island
Coasteering in São Miguel Island throws open the door to exploring the island's rugged coastline from a whole new perspective. Imagine traversing volcanic rock formations, plunging into crystal-clear waters, and swimming through hidden coves – all while surrounded by breathtaking ocean vistas. The beauty is, coasteering adventures cater to all levels. Nervous first-timers can ease in with smaller jumps and gentle climbs, while seasoned thrill-seekers can tackle higher cliffs and exhilarating natural rock pools. So, whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a curious beginner, there's a coasteering experience waiting to make your São Miguel adventure unforgettable. Book Your Coasteering Adventure Today!
19. Soak in São Miguel's Thermal Delights
São Miguel Island, a volcanic gem in the Azores, boasts more than just breathtaking scenery. It offers a unique opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate in naturally heated thermal waters. These geothermal wonders, scattered across the island, promise a truly transformative experience.
1. Caldeira Velha: Nestled amongst lush vegetation, Caldeira Velha is a thermal wonderland. Immerse yourself in iron-rich pools, soothe your muscles under therapeutic waterfalls, or experience the therapeutic mud baths – a truly unique way to pamper yourself.
2. Terra Nostra Thermal Pool: Step into a botanical paradise at Terra Nostra. Take a dip in the iconic main pool, surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery. For a more intimate experience, explore the smaller thermal pools with varying temperatures.
3. Poça da Dona Beija: Embrace the charm of this historical site. Poça da Dona Beija features a variety of thermal pools, some naturally colored by iron minerals. Relax in the steaming waters or explore the beautiful surrounding gardens.
4. Termas da Ferraria: Experience the magic of nature at Termas da Ferraria. These thermal waters flow directly into the ocean, creating a unique bathing experience in a natural ocean cove. Enjoy a warm soak while surrounded by the dramatic volcanic coastline.
5. Termas das Caldeiras: Discover the hidden gem of Termas das Caldeiras. This historic thermal complex features a charming pool nestled in a 19th-century setting, offering a relaxing escape amidst natural beauty.
6. Herdade do Ananás Jacuzzi: Indulge in a truly unique experience at Herdade do Ananas. This innovative thermal pool is surrounded by pineapple plantations, offering a chance to soak in the warm waters while enveloped by the sweet scent of pineapples.
20. Try the Regional Cuisine With a Food & Wine Tour
There's a whole world waiting to be tasted beyond the familiar dishes. Embark on a culinary journey with a food and wine tour, a delicious way to delve into the heart of São Miguel Island's cuisine. Imagine strolling through vibrant markets in Ponta Delgada, Azores, where your senses come alive with the sights and smells of fresh, local produce . Your expert guide, likely a local themselves, introduces you to exotic fruits you've never seen before and explains the rich history behind Azorean cheeses. Embark on a Food & Wine Tour in São Miguel Island!
Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip!
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