Is This The World’s Best Island?: A Guide to São Miguel
We have a bit of an obsession with small remote islands here at Roamantics. Something about the slow paced lifestyle and relaxed atmosphere draws us in. We’ve often daydreamed what it would be like to move to one, but I don’t think we’ve found an island that speaks to us quite as much as when we landed in São Miguel in the Azores.
Not to start any heated debates, but São Miguel is probably the world’s coolest island.
This place is nicknamed Europe’s Hawaii for a reason. If we could describe it to you, we’d say picture Jurassic Park (without the dinosaurs). You’ll find palm trees and birds you’ve never seen anywhere else. Peaceful, uncrowded hot springs and endless black sand beaches that lead to towering cliffs. For nature lovers, it’s a paradise. In only 5.5 hours from Toronto, you could be here, bathing in thermal waters and listening to the soundtrack of a rainforest.
For a genuine experience, here are five curated recommendations to fully immerse yourself in the depth of this region.
1. Take a 4x4 Tour of the Sete Cidades
The Sete Cidades are a region where you can see the volcanic caldera, lush greenery, and twin lakes that make São Miguel famous. Riding through the beautiful nature here on 4x4s on this tour is a fun way to see a lot of beauty. The name Sete Cidades refers to the region as well as the town at the ce
2. Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures
The Azores are one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching. The deep waters surrounding the islands are a haven for these majestic creatures, with over 20 different species of whales and dolphins visiting throughout the year. Embark on a boat tour from Pico or São Miguel island, and you might see sperm whales, blue whales, or playful pods of dolphins in their natural habitat. We went on a tour with Futurismo, and it left right from the Ponta Delgada marina on São Miguel. It's an unforgettable experience that highlights the rich marine biodiversity of the region.
3. Hike the Volcanic Landscapes of Pico Island
Pico Island is home to Portugal's highest peak, Mount Pico, a stratovolcano that offers some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences in the Azores. The climb to the summit is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the Atlantic Ocean. The volcanic soil also supports lush vineyards that produce the island's renowned Pico wine, making a post-hike vineyard tour and wine tasting a perfect way to unwind.
4. Soak in Natural Hot Springs
Thermal baths are a hallmark of the Azorean experience, and there are several natural hot springs scattered across the islands. One of the most famous is the Poça da Dona Beija on São Miguel, where you can soak in the warm, iron-rich waters surrounded by the lush rainforest. The combination of thermal relaxation and stunning natural beauty provides a uniquely rejuvenating experience.
5. Discover the Underwater World through Snorkeling
The Azores are a diver's paradise, offering some of the best snorkeling spots in the Atlantic. The underwater landscapes are as diverse as the islands themselves, with volcanic formations, caves, and reefs teeming with marine life. Dive sites like Princess Alice Bank and the Ilheus da Madalena shipwreck near São Miguel are renowned for their visibility and biodiversity, attracting divers from all over the world to explore the vibrant underwater ecosystems. This snorkel tour leads you through the best sites, which are only a 5 minute boat ride from the tour office.
We have a whole section about the Azores in our Portugal guide, so if you are planning a trip to these magical islands, sign up for our newsletter and get access to it today!
