Azores weekend breaks
The most beautiful beaches in Azores

The waters are calm and crystal clear and the temperature is pleasant. The sand is white, a stark contrast from the black sand beaches of the volcanic origin, which can be found in the neighbouring beaches. All signs point to a special place, tucked away in Portugal, which is why Formosa beach is a must-visit destination. For a spectacular experience, we recommend visiting the Miradouro da Macela to take in the beautiful view. Beachgoers who are looking for an extra special experience should also visit in August for the Festival Mare.

Hidden among the volcanic rocks, is the beautiful beach of Fajã Grande. It is a favourite among the inhabitants of Flores Island and is also very popular among surfers and scuba diving aficionados. This area is also a paradise for trekking lovers, who can explore many routes laden in spectacular scenery. Thanks to the clarity of its waters, this beach received recognition as "Praia Qualidade de Ouro", by Quercus, the largest environmental association in Portugal.

Picture this: Bathing inside the crater of an inactive volcano, which is practically submerged in the sea. That is certainly a different experience, which can be done in Ilhéu de Vila Franca, just 1 km from the coast and in an environment declared a Natural Reserve. Inside the volcanic crater is a natural pool, so clear and calm, it’s the perfect place for diving. Popular with locals, this place gained notoriety when Red Bull began to host the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Championship here.

Coves are small coastal plains which are formed due to the slippage of soil or lava, and only on the island of São Jorge are there more than 40. For that very reason, it is often described as the "island of Fajãs" or the island of coves. The best known cove, and also one of the most beautiful, is the Caldeira de Santo Cristo, which is classified as a Nature Reserve due to the fauna and flora that inhabits the cove. Access is not easy and takes some time, but the effort is rewarded by the beauty of the landscape.

These beautiful natural pools are formed between rocks and are the result of ancient volcanic eruptions. Protected from the force of the sea, they are perfect for swimming in calm waters or simply sunbathing on the rocks, while admiring the black lava landscape, which is a breathtaking contrast from the intense blue tone of the Atlantic. Visitors exploring the area should take the opportunity to visit the Museu do Vinho Biscoitos for a taste of some of the most reputable wines.

If you are someone who does not like beaches where the water is cold, you're going to love this beach! Located in a bay with hydrothermal submarine vents, the water temperature on the beach of Ribeira Quente invites visitors to enter and stay with its warm waters. The beach is surrounded by an idyllic and sunny spot and offers basic amenities to ensure a carefree day, including showers, bathrooms and parking. This area is also known as Praia do Gogo or Praia dos Saltinhos because at certain points, the water may be so hot, it forces you to literally jump.