Visit the most beautiful beaches in the Azores
At MYMARINI, we’re on a mission with our community to find the world’s most beautiful beaches. In this post, we present the top beaches in the Azores. This enchanting archipelago boasts stunning beaches, from secluded coves to dramatic volcanic shorelines. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine sands or want to explore unique landscapes, our guide will help you find your perfect beach escape in the Azores. Dive in and discover these magical destinations!
MYMARINI fan Sarah Neuendorf has submitted the first five beaches for us, sharing her favorite spots across the Azores. Enjoy her recommendations and start planning your next beach adventure!
Black sand beaches: Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara
"Hotel California" blares from rolled-down car windows as suntanned surfers wax their boards in the glow of the setting sun and tourists enjoy freshly caught fish and take in the sea views at the crowded Tukátulá Beach Bar.
The waves crash violently on the black sands of the beach, and the air tastes of salt. Dark cliffs loom over the narrow strip of rugged coastline, while the deep blue water of the Atlantic extends as far as the eye can see. In Sarah's opinion, this is the most beautiful beach on the island of São Miguel.
This location has a restaurant, restrooms, a surf school, and showers.
Natural beauty and a sheltered cove: Mosteiros Beach
This beach also boasts dark volcanic sand and dramatic, rocky cliffs. The bay is more sheltered, so the waves are gentler when they reach the land.
There's a kiosk that sells ice cream and coffee right on the beach.
Mineral pools and world-famous gardens: Terra Nostra Park
Don't let the muddy yellow of the water put you off this thermal pool in the middle of a botanical garden – many consider this place the most beautiful park in the world, and it's very popular with tourists. Luckily, the main pool and hot springs are big enough to offer plenty of space for everyone in the warm water.
The main pool is flanked by ancient trees, rolling meadows, and a historic building. Admission costs around €10, and there are showers and restrooms on site. As of June 2024, a recent renovation project is complete and the gardens are once again fully accessible to visitors. Sarah recommends wearing dark-colored swimwear here, as the iron-rich water can stain lighter garments yellow.
A natural swimming pool surrounded by cliffs: Ponta da Ferraria
Swimming in this natural thermal pool was an absolute high point of Sarah's trip to the Azores. There's a ladder with rope railings to take you down into the pool, which is directly connected to the Atlantic Ocean.
When planning your visit, make sure to keep the tide schedule in mind. At low tide the pool is delightfully warm, but as soon as the tide comes in, cold seawater flows into the pool. The temperature drops suddenly, and the waves start to get wilder.
If you aren't able to make it to this amazing place at the right time of day, you can also visit the thermal pool near the parking lot.
Hot springs in a nature reserve: Caldeira Velha
For just €10, you can spend 90 minutes in these incredibly warm thermal pools and let your worries float away. Located in a nature sanctuary, the smaller pools in the lower area of the park are between 35 and 39 degrees Celsius. At only around 21 degrees, the upper pool and waterfall is somewhat cooler, but that also means it's usually the least crowded. Plus, it's a natural wonder, surrounded by palm trees and giant conifers.
There are changing rooms and restrooms here, as well as a food cart at the entrance that sells great coffee, ice cream, and snacks.
Where to stay: Sarah recommends the Herdade do Ananás, a sustainable farm hotel with a unique pool
Sarah and her family stayed at this wonderful, sustainably operated pineapple farm. In addition to its cozy rooms and truly kind staff, this hotel also has its own small thermal pool inside one of the greenhouses. The pool is freely accessible for hotel guests. You can even have breakfast in the water, if you like!
Sarah's tips for swimming in the Azores
When visiting the Azores in April, don't expect the weather to be warm enough for swimming every day. Fortunately, it doesn't need to be, since the islands offer plenty of thermal pools that can be enjoyed rain or shine. The water in these natural springs is as balmy as a bathtub year-round.
If you don't feel like swimming in the rough seas of the Atlantic, simply stay on dry land, watch the wetsuit-clad surfers, and burrow your feet into the black lava sand.
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