by Azores Getaways Team
April 3, 2025 • 8 min read
Discover the Best Hotels in São Miguel Island for Your Perfect Stay
São Miguel is one of the most developed islands in the Azores, and with so much to explore, choosing the right area to stay is essential. Luckily, our team lives throughout the Azores, especially on São Miguel Island, so we know firsthand which are the best hotels and accommodation options to make your stay unforgettable.
The options are incredibly diverse! You can stay in downtown Ponta Delgada for easy access to restaurants, tours and whale watching (close to the main marina of the island). Looking to relax? Head to the hot springs in Furnas. For surf and beach lovers, Ribeira Grande is the place to be, while Lagoa, with its more central location, offers a calm and peaceful escape.
Interested? Keep reading, and we’ll share a complete guide with the best recommendations to help you enjoy the island.
Ponta Delgada: Main City of São Miguel Island
Ponta Delgada, the island’s main city, is a great place to stay, especially if you want to explore São Miguel without a car. It’s full of restaurants, bars, cafes, and many tours that start right in the city.
You’ll find many types of hotels, from fancy five-star spots to simple Airbnbs. Go whale-watching from the nearby marina, enjoy a food and city tour, or relax in warm thermal waters at the pineapple greenhouse. At night, check out the fun nightlife.
If you want an easy, central place to enjoy your vacation, Ponta Delgada is a perfect choice.
Best Places to Stay in Ponta Delgada, Azores
Hotel Marina Atlântico, located in the heart of Ponta Delgada, this oceanfront hotel blends modern comfort with a maritime touch. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a peaceful atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a heated indoor pool, a full-service spa, and a fitness center, perfect for a relaxing stay.
Learn more about Hotel Marina Atlântico, here!
Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico, a premier luxury destination located on the main ocean-front avenue of Ponta Delgada, São Miguel. Reflecting the rich maritime history of the Azores, this hotel combines classic charm with contemporary elegance. It features beautifully appointed rooms and suites with panoramic views of the harbor, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate scenic beauty and refined comfort.
Learn more about Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico, here!
Octant Ponta Delgada, this stylish hotel in the vibrant heart of São Miguel, Azores is known for its modern architecture and eco-friendly design, it blends indoor comfort with stunning city surroundings. Guests can enjoy ocean or city views, tailored experiences, and a rooftop with a pool and a bar, perfect for sunsets.
Learn more about Octant Ponta Delgada, here!
Senhora da Rosa, Tradition & Nature Hotel is a peaceful retreat located just outside Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island. Surrounded by lush gardens and a pineapple plantation, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a relaxing spa, and an outdoor thermal pool in a pinneapple greenhouse, blending comfort, nature, and Azorean tradition.
Learn more about Senhora da Rosa Hotel, here!
Seeking Serenity? Furnas Awaits
Craving an escape from the city bustle? Yearning for nature's embrace and the tranquility it offers? Furnas beckons. This haven within São Miguel Island feels like paradise on earth, no matter where you choose to stay.
Although further from the airport, the rewards of Furnas are immeasurable. Here, you'll find two inviting thermal pools to soothe your soul. Indulge in the legendary cozido das furnas, a local stew cooked by volcanic heat, and savor the melt-in-your-mouth bolo levedo, a sweet Azorean bread.
Just a 10-minute drive away, discover Ribeira Quente, boasting Fogo Beach, one of the island's most stunning beaches. If cultural and natural treasures hold more allure than cityscapes, Furnas is your ideal sanctuary on São Miguel Island.
Important Tip: To fully unlock the magic of Furnas and explore its surrounding gems like Ribeira Quente, we strongly advise renting a car. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and maximize your experience in this natural paradise.
Best Hotels in Furnas
Octant Furnas, nestled in the lush, geothermal heart of São Miguel in the Azores, is perfect for those seeking peace and nature. This hotel is just minutes from the Furnas hot springs and Terra Nostra Park, making it a top choice for anyone planning to stay in Furnas. Guests can enjoy thermal pools, a volcanic stone spa, and a relaxing sauna, all surrounded by natural beauty.
Learn more about Octant Furnas, here!
Tip: If you're interested in staying at both Octant hotels, Furnas and Ponta Delgada, we've prepared a special package for you. This option allows you to explore both the rural and urban sides of São Miguel Island during your visit. Learn more here!
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, located in the enchanting valley of Furnas on São Miguel Island, is one of the Azores’ most iconic accommodations. This hidden gem, near Furnas Lake, features one of São Miguel Island’s most beautiful botanical gardens and a large thermal pool known for its relaxing waters. Guests enjoy exclusive access to the park, making it a truly serene retreat.
Learn more and book your stay here!
Did you know: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is set within what has been recognized as one of the world's best "Green Retreats" by Condé Nast Traveler.
Ribeira Grande: Beachside Adventure Hub in São Miguel Island
Craving a blend of beach life, city vibes, and outdoor adventures? Look no further than Ribeira Grande, São Miguel's second-largest city.
Strategically located, Ribeira Grande serves as a perfect base for exploring the island's north. With a car, it becomes your central hub, granting easy access to all corners of São Miguel. Ribeira Grande boasts the island's largest beach, Areal de Santa Bárbara beach, a haven for surfers with its epic swells and renowned competitions.
Craving geothermal wonders? Lagoa do Fogo and the Caldeira Velha thermal pools are within easy reach, offering a chance to soak in nature's therapeutic waters. So, if your ideal vacation combines city energy with beach bliss and outdoor adventures, Ribeira Grande is your perfect match.
Best Hotels in Ribeira Grande and the North Coast of São Miguel
Pedras do Mar Resort & SPA, a luxury hotel on the north coast of São Miguel, Azores, offers views of the Atlantic Ocean and a private natural swimming area. Guests enjoy luxurious suites with balconies overlooking the sea or the lush island landscape.
Learn more about Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa, here!
Verde Mar & Spa Hotel, located in Ribeira Grande on São Miguel Island, Azores, is a modern beach resort with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Positioned along the northern coastline, it blends a beachfront location with contemporary comfort. Whether you prefer the ocean breeze or a stay in Furnas for a thermal retreat, this hotel is a top pick for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Learn more about Hotel Verde Mar & Spa, here!
Lagoa: A Peaceful & Central Stay in São Miguel Island
Lagoa offers the perfect balance. With its central location, you’re just a short drive from top places like Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Furnas, and Ribeira Grande. Lagoa is also known for scenic coastal views, natural pools, and local restaurants where you can taste the best of the Azores. If you want a calm base with easy access to the island’s highlights, Lagoa is a smart choice.
Best Hotels and Accommodations in Lagoa
Double Tree by Hilton, located in the center of Lagoa, this hotel combines Hilton style with Azorean charm. The hotel features modern rooms, a rooftop pool with ocean views, and a relaxing spa. Close to Lagoa’s natural pools, it's a peaceful base to explore nearby highlights like Lagoa do Fogo and the island’s thermal springs, perfect for travelers who appreciate Hilton’s familiar style with a local touch.
White Exclusive Suites & Villas, a luxurious boutique hotel located on the picturesque south coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores. This exclusive property is set atop a cliff, offering stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. It combines the charm of a historic building with modern, sophisticated design to create an atmosphere of tranquil luxury.
Enhance your experience in São Miguel Island by booking your stay at White Exclusive Suite & Villas. Learn more here!
Other notable mentions of Accommodations and Hotels in São Miguel Island include:
SENSI Azores Nature and SPA, located on São Miguel Island in the Azores, is a luxury eco-friendly resort surrounded by lush nature and views of the Atlantic Ocean. It blends modern comfort with sustainability, offering a full spa and wellness experience with organic and locally sourced treatments.
Ready to fall in love with Sensi Azores Nature and Spa? Book your stay here!
Caloura Hotel Resort, a peaceful oceanfront retreat on the south coast of São Miguel Island, Azores. Surrounded by volcanic cliffs and lush greenery, this charming resort features bright sea-view rooms, a relaxing outdoor pool, and direct access to natural swimming spots. A small beach (Baixa d'Areia Beach) is just a short walk away, making it easy to enjoy the ocean. Located near top island attractions like Lagoa do Fogo, it’s the perfect base for a quiet and scenic stay in the Azores.
Book your stay at Caloura Hotel Beach Resort for a peaceful escape by the ocean in São Miguel Island. Learn more here!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some of the best hotels to stay in São Miguel Island?
Some of the top hotels in São Miguel Island include the Octant Furnas, Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, and Hotel Marina Atlântico. Each offers unique amenities and stunning views to enhance your stay on the island.
- Are there any luxury accommodations in São Miguel Island?
Yes, São Miguel Island offers luxury accommodations for those looking to indulge in a high-end experience. Some of the best luxury options include the Furnas Boutique Hotel, Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort, and the Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico.
- Where should I stay in Ponta Delgada?
If you want easy access to restaurants, bars, cafes, and tours, staying in downtown Ponta Delgada is a great option. It's the island’s main city and perfect for travelers without a car.
- What part of São Miguel is best to stay in?
It depends on your travel style. Choose Ponta Delgada for city life, Furnas for hot springs and nature, Ribeira Grande for surf and adventure, or Lagoa for a peaceful, central base.
- What are the best hotel recommendations for a first visit to São Miguel?
Great picks include Senhora da Rosa and Octant in Ponta Delgada, Terra Nostra Garden Hotel in Furnas, and Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort in Ribeira Grande. These offer excellent comfort and locations for first-timers.
- Are there any all-inclusive resorts in São Miguel?
All-inclusive resorts are less common in São Miguel compared to other destinations. Most hotels offer bed and breakfast or half-board options.
Loved our hotel suggestions but not sure which one to pick? Let our Azorean experts help, book our perfect stress-free packages and enjoy São Miguel to the fullest, without the hassle of deciding!
