Compare holidays to the Azores

Top beaches in the Azores

The Azores' volcanic coastline has everything from rocky black coves to blonde-sand bays. Santa Maria island is top for a beach holiday thanks to its huge sands and family-friendly waters.

São Lourenço

Descend through terraced vineyards to this beautiful bay in Santa María. Its location is protected from the Atlantic winds by spectacular cliffs, and the ocean is clear. Bathroom facilities and a beach bar make it easy if you’re with the kids, too.

Praia Formosa

Another lovely Blue Flag beach on Santa Maria, Praia Formosa is great for watersports. There’s also warm golden sand perfect for sunbathing and water shallow enough for family frolics.

Praia das Milícias e Praia do Pópulo

The main beaches next to each other on São Miguel (also locally called Praia Grande) have plenty of parking and nearby cafes. Better still, they’re a short drive from Ponta Delgada and a popular spot for locals and tourists in the summer.

Praia do Fogo

For a smaller option on São Miguel, try this cosy cove in Ribeira Quente. Hydrothermal springs are a natural heater here. Feel the warmth as you dig into the dark, volcanic sand and enjoy the warmer seawater.

Praia de Porto Pim

Near Horta and with several bars and cafes close by, this is a child-friendly choice on Faial. Its sheltered location often means calm waters for paddleboarding and kayaking.

Where to stay in the Azores

For family holidays

If you’re keen to keep your travel itinerary simple (often the key to a successful family trip), stick to São Miguel. Here you have beaches, a good choice of restaurants and larger hotels with children's facilities. It also has all essential activities of an Azores holiday within easy reach, such as hiking, biking and surfing.

Fancy a bit of island hopping? Consider adding a stay in Santa María. It’s known for having a more reliable climate and some excellent sandy beaches. Alternatively, Faial is great for whale-watching and has a nice beach close to the main town, Horta.

For cheap holidays

Staying in one place can reduce costs as flights between the islands quickly add up. So, for a cheap holiday to the Azores, base yourself on São Miguel. You’ll find affordable tapas and low-cost hotels (including a hostel) in Ponta Delgada.

Santa María, Pico and São Jorge also have youth hostels and other simple accommodation. These islands also have plenty of free activities, such as hiking, swimming in natural pools or relaxing on the beach.

For couples holidays

Holidays to the Azores are perfect for couples. São Miguel has romantic coastal hotels, relaxed restaurants and live music bars for date nights. The scenery is a beautiful setting for walks, and you’ll find lots of places to hop into a hot spring together.

Pico is the place for wine tasting and whale watching. Treat yourself to a stay at the Azores Wine Company where you can try a tasting menu for two.

Elsewhere, Terceira has Angra do Heroísmo, a charming town of colourful houses, while the smallest island, Corvo, is perfect for an isolated getaway.

For an all-inclusive break

Traditional all-inclusive accommodation deals, where you pay in advance for all meals and activities, aren't a big thing in the Azores.

However, there are larger, more luxurious hotels in São Miguel where you can book bed and breakfast or even half board, and enjoy access to swimming pools, activities and on-site restaurants.

Some suggestions to start your Azores package holiday search include Terra Nostra Garden Hotel in Furnas or Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, both with top-notch restaurants and facilities. The latter is especially good for activities, with surfing, whale watching and ‘being a farmer for the day’ among the long list of options.

When to go to the Azores

The Azores are open all year round, but winter months have more challenging weather that may affect travel. Summer is the most popular season for tourists and wildlife alike, with April to September the best time to see whales. It's also the busiest, so compare holidays and book early to find the best deals.

When is the cheapest time to visit the Azores?

Winter is a good time to bag a cheap Azores holiday, but you need to factor in the weather – it can be wet, dark and windy. Instead, search in the shoulder seasons to find good deals; you may even catch a glimpse of the first hydrangeas in late spring.

When should I go for the best weather?

June to August sees the highest temperatures and lowest rainfall. You can expect average highs of around 25C and potentially higher on Santa María. Weather in the Azores is notoriously changeable, so pack a waterproof, especially if you plan to hike.