Snorkeling in Azores: The Best Guide for You [2024]

Are you looking for an extraordinary underwater adventure in Atlantic? Look no further than the Azores! This archipelago actually defies the ordinary. The Azores is a group of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. These nine breathtaking islands offer untouched natural beauty, a whale-watching paradise, natural hot springs, hiking adventures, Stargazing, tranquility, space to breathe and unspoiled beaches. Above all The Azores is surrounded by the beautiful North Atlantic ocean. According to us, the best and only way to explore its underwater wonders is through- Snorkeling in Azores. It is regarded as one of the world’s best water visibility beaches with almost 30 meters deep.

About The Azores

The Azores is a hidden gem in the vast Atlantic Ocean. It lies approximately 1,000 miles (1,600 km) west of mainland Portugal. The Azores is an autonomous region of Portugal, means its people elect their own President and parliament. This archipelago has nine major islands, each with its own unique character. These islands are affected by frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The Azores islands are divided into three distinct groups:

• Eastern Group: São Miguel (The largest), Santa Maria
• Central Group: Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Terceira, and Graciosa
• Western Group: Flores and Corvo (The Smallest)

The Azores is designated as one of the UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARKS.

Why Snorkeling in Azores

People around the world have been curious about Snorkeling in Azores recently. You might be thinking that snorkeling in Azores will chill your bones with freezing Atlantic waters. But interestingly, the waters around the Azores are warm due to year-round volcanic activities. Crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life are a USP of Snorkeling in Azores. Here are some of the few reasons why Azores is called paradise for snorkeling:

1. Unspoiled Beauty: The Azores is known for pristine and untouched snorkeling spots, far from the crowds.
2. Whale & Dolphin Watching: Azores is one of the few places in the world for whale and dolphin watching. These Atlantic waters are home to whales, dolphins, and manta rays. Private tours are available.
3. Volcanic Geology: You can snorkel near submerged volcanic craters and lava formations.
4. Warm Waters: Despite their northern location, the Azores boast comfortably warm ocean temperatures. Average sea temperature is around 22°C (72°F).
5. Colorful Marine Life: Encounter schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and curious octopuses. The visibility allows you to appreciate every detail.

How to get to Azores

 Whether you’re flying from Europe, North America, or other destinations, here are the key ways to reach Azores islands:

• Sao Miguel (the largest Azorean island) serves as a hub for international flights. The Ponta Delgada airport receives flights from various countries, including: United States, UK, Canada, Spain, France, Cape Verde, Germany and Bermuda (seasonal)
• Terceira also welcomes international flights from the United States and Canada. If you are travelling from USA take direct flight from Boston & New York.

Snorkeling in Azores-Map

Best Snorkeling in Azores-Spots

Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel Island is the largest and most populated island in the Azores. It is nicknamed as Ilha Verde which means Green Island. The island is famous for the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades. Key attractions include whale watching, hot springs, hiking trails like around Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and exploring the lively city of Ponta Delgada. The island’s volcanic origins have created unique geological sites like Gruta do Carvão lava tunnels and Caldeira Velha hot springs. Sao Miguel offers some excellent snorkeling spots. Here are a few:

1. Islet of Vila Franca do Campo (Sao Miguel Island)

• Vila Franca Islet, aka Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo is located approx. 1 km south coast of Sao Miguel.
• The most common way to reach the islet is by taking a short boat ride from the harbor in the village of Vila Franca do Campo. Several local tour operators and boat companies offer regular boat transfers to the islet.
• The islet is famous for its semi-circular natural pool, which is connected to the open ocean through a narrow channel.
• This natural crater creates a protected swimming area with calm and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling.
• The islet itself is a vegetated, uninhabited volcanic cone that emerged from the sea. It is a protected nature reserve.
• Its surrounding waters feature fascinating lava formations, caves, and arches. These geological wonders add an extra layer of fun to Snorkeling in Azores.
• Snorkelers can expect to encounter a variety of tropical fish, such as parrotfish, damselfish, wrasses, and many others. It’s also common to spot rays, eels, and even small sharks in the area.
• The islet has basic facilities, such as changing rooms, showers, and a small cafe.

2. Ponta da Galera (Sao Miguel Island)

• A super peaceful and relaxing beach located in the Caloura village, middle of the south coast of Sao Miguel
• Its a beautiful lava beach with small and sheltered pools
• The rugged coastline of Ponta da Galera features rocky outcrop which owes its dramatic landscape to volcanic activity
• Plenty of space for parking next to the the beach
• The beach is famous for swimming, sunbathing and excellent snorkeling
• You can find good snorkeling spot around the middle pool where water is almost calm with good visibility
• You may encounter tons of fish while snorkeling.
• Restaurants, toilets, sun loungers and changing rooms available at the beach

3. Praia da Pedreira (Sao Miguel Island)

• Pedreira beach is one of the nicest beach on the island. It is a beautiful, secluded gray sandy beach
• To reach here you need to get up to about 200 steps staircase and steep slopes. A small parking lot very close to the start of the descent
• It is popular among locals and usually not crowded
• The water conditions at Praia da Pedreira may not always be ideal for swimming or snorkeling, as it often contains seaweed
• You may still spot parrotfish, wrasse, damselfish, and other tropical Atlantic species while snorkeling

4. Praia do Porto Pim (Faial Island)

Faial Island, also known as the “Blue Island,” offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Faial is situated in the central group of the Azores. The island is known for its lush green landscapes, scenic calderas, and picturesque coastal towns. The Horta Airport (HOR) serves Faial. Many airlines operate flights from Lisbon and other major cities to Horta.

• One of the top spots in Faial is Praia Porto Pim, located near the town of Horta.
• This picturesque beach features clear waters and a sandy bottom, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
• This is a very shallow-sloping beach with no waves, so it’s perfect for kids and inexperienced.
• This sheltered bay is a popular spot for snorkeling You can swim alongside colorful fish, and admire the beautiful marine flora and fauna.
• Be aware of Portuguese-man-of-war and jellyfish, which may be present in the water.
• No bathroom or cafe found in the surroundings.

5. Praia da Riviera (Terceira Island)

Terceira Island is located in the central group of the Azores, just east of São Jorge. It is the second most populous island in the Azores and is known for its historic city of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Terceira features volcanic cones, natural caves, stunning cliffs with lush green landscapes, charming villages, and a picturesque coastline. The island has an international airport called Lajes Airport (TER), which receives regular flights from mainland Portugal and other European cities.

• Praia da Riviera is a fantastic beach with gray sand, great visibility and warm water. It is located near the city of Angra do Heroísmo.
• This beach offers calm and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. You can discover a diverse marine ecosystem, including fish, sea urchins, and other fascinating creatures.
• The underwater rock formations and volcanic structures add an extra element of excitement to your snorkeling adventure.
• Beach has fixed umbrellas, toilets, and a beautiful wooden walkway that leads to the bar and the nearby town.

6. Poca da Branca (Pico Island)

Pico Island is located in the central group of the Azores, approximately 5 km (3 miles) east of Faial Island. It covers an area of around 447 square km and has a population of around 14,000 people. Pico Mountain, the highest mountain in Portugal lies here. Pico is known for its vineyards, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Poça Branca is located on the east coast of the island.
• There is a great natural swimming pool in Prainha which is one of the deepest pools on Pico Island.
• It is a natural pool carved from the basalt volcanic rock.
• This pool is regarded as the best natural pool in Portugal.
• The pool is filled with crystal-clear seawater, allowing you to explore the underwater world.
• Snorkeling at Poça Branca provides an opportunity to see colorful fish, explore rocky formations, and appreciate the unique volcanic landscape.
• The location is perfect for picnics as there are lots of picnic tables around. Restrooms and Restaurants available nearby.

7. Praia Formosa (Santa Maria Island)

Santa Maria is the southernmost and easternmost island of the Azores, located approximately 100 km (62 miles) from the island of Sao Miguel. Santa Maria is known for its white sandy beaches, vineyards, and laid-back atmosphere. It has a diverse geography with a mix of rolling hills, fertile valleys, and beautiful coastline. Santa Maria is the flattest island in the Azores.

• Praia Formosa( “Beautiful Beach” in Portuguese) is a pure white sandy beach which justifies its name. This beach is the perfect combination of scenery, sand and sea located between 2 cliffs.
• Praia Formosa is located near Vila do Porto and famous for its warm crystal clear waters.
• The clear waters and gentle currents make it an ideal spot for beginners. Snorkelers can encounter a variety of marine life.
• Parking space, lifeguards, cafe, bar, restaurant, and washroom available
• The Maré de Agosto is an annual music festival that takes place in mid-August on Praia Formosa beach.
• If you want to surf on the beach, ensure to check the surf forecast.

Snorkeling in Azores Tours:

Many tour operators in the Azores offer guided snorkeling tours. The experienced guides take you to the best snorkeling spots and provide information about the marine life you’ll encounter. These tours include gear rental and transportation. It’s recommended to book your snorkeling tour in advance, especially during the peak summer months, as spots can fill up quickly. Additionally, check the weather conditions before your tour, as rough seas or strong winds can affect visibility and safety in the water. Check available tours.