About Sao Miguel Island

São Miguel Island, the largest in Portugal's Azores archipelago, captivates visitors with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, thermal springs and vibrant green-and-blue lakes. The best places to stay on São Miguel Island are clustered around Ponta Delgada, the main city, which offers a fascinating blend of heritage architecture, contemporary attractions, and easy access to the island's natural wonders.

From soaking in the iron-rich thermal pools of Furnas to marvelling at the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades, the island abounds with opportunities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to discover. Spend your days hiking along lush trails, watching whales breach in the Atlantic waters, or exploring the pineapple plantations and tea estates that reflect the island's unique agricultural heritage.

While the north coast promises rugged cliffs and dramatic ocean views, the best places to stay on São Miguel Island also include the charming coastal towns of Ribeira Grande and Vila Franca do Campo, where travellers can experience authentic Azorean culture. Expect to find pristine black sand beaches, geothermal swimming spots, and local restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes within easy reach — ideal for those seeking a a sense of the island's rich culture, as well as its dazzling landscapes. It's little wonder that the island continues to be so popular with visitors from Portugal and further afield!

The Best Places to Stay on São Miguel Island

For seaside style

  • Sul Villas & Spa ,on the island's southern side, has fresh, breezy guest suites. Some rooms boast fireplaces, heated plunge pools and terraces, and there's stacks for guests of all ages to do — from water sports to horse riding excursions.
  • White is a sublime clifftop hotel with white-on-white interiors — as the name suggests — and panoramic views. Enjoy soothing spa treatments, go horse riding along coastal paths and into the island's interior, or tuck into mouth-watering cuisine at the restaurant. One for hip couples. 

For ponta delgada harbour

  • Octant Ponta Delgada is a sleek harbourfront hotel with 123 rooms. Think crisp white linens, wood panelled walls and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the marina. An atmospheric bar and restaurant complete the experience. 

For families

  • Senhora da Rosa's collection of rustic lodges fuse laid-back charm with real romance. A farmhouse-turned hideaway, this lovely spot will delight those looking to immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty. Families are welcome and there's a kids club, indoor playground, plus cosy bunk beds in some lodges. 
  • Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, an 86-bedroom hotel, welcomes families with interconnecting guest rooms, a kids' games area and outdoorsy activities aplenty. Try kayaking, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving, or kick back at the extensive spa. The thermal baths are fabulous, and the Art Deco design very special. 
  • Pedras do Mar Resort and Spa, set on the rugged northern coast, is breathtaking. Minimalist design, gourmet fare, a superb spa and striking infinity pool add to the appeal at this modern designer resort. There's also an indoor pool, tennis courts and games room for guests of all ages. 

For a rural retreat

  • Solar Branco Eco Estate champions sustainability through its zero plastic policies, clever design and focus on local produce. An adult-only haven on a restored rural estate, the property offers stylish suites and cottages, and an appealingly grown-up vibe. The Gin Library is proud to hold Europe's largest gin collection. Very cool. 
  • Santa Barbara Eco Beach Resort is a stunning 14-bedroom escape, with design-led minimalist interiors and sea views on São Miguel. Expect exemplary eco credentials and a low-waste ethos, plus cracking seasonal cuisine. Sleek, environmentally conscious and romantic.
  • Quinta dos Peixes Falantes, close to Santa Bárbara Beach, offers two studios and two cottages, each with garden views and shared access to a refreshing swimming pool. A tranquil, intimate base for travellers seeking the independence of their own kitchenettes and terraces. Understated and quiet.  
  • Octant Furnas is situated in the heart of the Furnas Valley and offers 54 minimalist guest rooms. HIghlights here include the fabulous spa with indoor and outdoor thermal pools, a "floatbed", thermal circuit and much more, plus the stunning A Terra restaurant where the best of land and sea are cooked to perfection mainly over fire.

For great value

  • Pico do Refúgio has been a tea factory, an artists' studio, and a manor house. A collection of eight rustic-chic houses now sit in lovely grounds, with a shared swimming pool and gardens. Think pale earthy tones, exposed beams in romantic lofts, and self-catering facilities for relaxed trips with friends and family. A rural favourite with very affordable rates. 

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to São Miguel's Ponta Delgada Airport and continue to your hotel by car from there. Some hotels can arrange an airport or ferry pick-up in advance. Island-hopping by ferry is appealingly simple and scenic, with ports on small towns on each of the islands. 
  • It's wonderful to have the freedom of your own transport! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C between June and early September. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays, or in spring and autumn, when the weather is also slightly cooler.

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The best hotels in Sao Miguel Island

Pico do Refúgio

Sao Miguel Island (Rabo de Peixe)

This stylish hotel is set within a former 17th-century mansion in Azores, part of an ecological reserve which also comprises a farm and scuba diving centre. Following a recent renovation, the hotel now offers modern lofts and apartments, perfect for an active escape to the country.

  • Families - The self-catering apartments at this hotel are perfect for a family stay, with self-catering facilities and good living space
  • Local exploring - There is lots to explore local to this hotel, from diving with the hotel scuba centre to rambling country walks
  • Country Escape - Set on the scenic north coast of the island of São Miguel, this hotel offers a tranquil escape to the country
  • Surfing - Ride the waves off the coast; enquire at the hotel for local board hire or for surf lessons
from €76 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa

Sao Miguel Island (Ponta Delgada)

A stunning coastal property offering incredible sea views. Rooms are contemporary in style with chic minimalist design, luxurious bathrooms and large balconies. A superb spa and striking infinity pool are utterly spoiling. The perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.

  • Hideaway - Set on a cliff-edge a mile from the nearest town, perfect for a secluded, isolated getaway far from the hustle and bustle.
  • Back to Nature - Located on the north of the island, just a short drive from some of the island's most spectacular natural wonders.
  • Families - The pool, sports and gaming facilities are more than enough to keep young ones entertained.
  • Great walks - Take long walks along the picturesque coastline.
from €77 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Senhora da Rosa

Sao Miguel Island (Azores)

Tucked away in São Miguel, this farmhouse-turned-hideaway blends rustic charm with modern comforts. Interiors glow with antique furniture, soft textures, and a palette of calming greens. Expect a farm-to-table restaurant, rooftop pool, spa, and even a plunge pool in a pineapple greenhouse.

  • Local exploring - Wander Ponta Delgada’s cobbled streets & explore Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião, a striking mix of gothic, Manueline & baroque
  • Families - With a kids’ club, indoor playground, and heated plunge pool, this eco-friendly retreat offers fun and relaxation for all ages
  • Other Activities - Relax in Furnas’ thermal pools and natural baths, carved into orange clay, said to boost collagen and leave skin glowing
  • Romantic Break - Secluded lodges with alfresco baths, cedar scents, and lush banana trees set the mood for an intimate escape in nature
from €99 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Santa Barbara Eco Beach Resort

Sao Miguel Island

Combining an eco approach with an elegant aesthetic, Santa Barbara Eco Beach Resort is a stunning hotel. The plush villas are great for couples looking for some additional privacy and the hotel's restaurant offers delectable seafood dishes.

  • Great walks - The surrounding coastline is full of wonderful walking routes.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby natural beauty of the Fire Lagoon.
  • Birdwatching - The Azores coastline is full of fantastic birdlife.
  • Spa
from €121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Solar Branco Eco Estate

Sao Miguel Island (Sao Miguel, Azores)

A fabulous conversion of a rustic estate on Sao Miguel. This eco-property not only champions sustainability but also provides stunning modern suites and cottages with a chic pared back feel and a grown-up vibe. Don't miss daily gin o'clock and occasional sushi dinners. Relaxation guaranteed!

  • Total relaxation - Solar Branco is all about RnR. With no kids, beautiful surrounds and a laid-back vibe, relaxation is the name of the game!
  • Bar - The Gin Library holds Europe's largest gin collection! Enjoy a complimentary G&T every evening at gin o'clock
  • Romantic Break - Beautifully styled suites and cottages, no children, superb bar, delicious sushi...say no more!
  • Local exploring - Well located for exploring all of Sao Miguel's highlights from beaches to cultural sites
from €120 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Octant Ponta Delgada

Sao Miguel Island

A sleek modern property boasting a fabulous coastal location in the spectacular Azores region. Rooms are minimalist in style with soft hues, crisp white linen, light wood panelling and large windows that perfectly frame the coastal views. A luxurious base to explore this fascinating region from.

  • Active Holiday - The hotel offers ample oppurtunity to explore The Azores region and partake in outdoor activities.
  • Diving - The crystal clear and temperate waters of the sea make the Azores archipelago ideal for diving enthusiasts.
  • Fishing - Get the opportunity to big game fish and catch the coveted Atlantic blue marlin.
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from €128 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel

Sao Miguel Island

A luxury art-deco hotel situated on the hidden gem that is the Azores Islands. Spacious rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, feather-soft beds and crisp white linen. Spend relaxing days lounging in the thermal water pool or for those looking for an active holiday there's plenty on offer.

  • Hideaway - Head off on an adventure and discover the magical landscape of these volcanic isles.
  • Great walks - Explore the unusual yet beautiful surrounds of the island.
  • Spa
  • Restaurant
from €139 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Sul Villas & Spa

Sao Miguel Island (Azores)

A clifftop hotel above the southern shore of São Miguel Island. Modern interiors feel fresh and breezy, with driftwood pieces accentuating the coastal location. Some rooms boast fireplaces, heated plunge pools and terraces, plus there are picture windows framing epic views. Serious seaside style.

  • Active Holiday - There's lots to do for the outdoor enthusiast, including nature walks, diving, surfing, and swimming with dolphins
  • Back to Nature - This area is known for its pristine nature, volcanic scenery, beaches, rich marine life, and waterfalls
  • Romantic Break - Cosy up in front of the fireplace or enjoy a deep bath beside a picture window facing the sea
  • Sights nearby - Visit the Lagoa do Fogo, a beautiful lake in a volcanic crater with stunning views and hiking opportunities
from €160 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
White

Sao Miguel Island

Embodying easy elegance, White is a stunning hotel in the Azores. The name succinctly sums up its style with sharp, luxurious rooms that offer stunning views out over the ocean. Spa treatments, horse riding trips and superb food in the restaurant will keep you engaged.

  • Fishing - Guests can go out on chartered fishing trips organised by the hotel.
  • Spa
  • Restaurant
  • Swimming Pool
from €205 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Octant Furnas

Sao Miguel Island (Azores)

A relaxed, 4-star hotel set in the heart of São Miguel Island’s volcanic Furnas Valley. Modern and traditional elements mix seamlessly in the decor, creating a soothing atmosphere. Enjoy the thermal pools, an extensive spa, and authentic Azorean dining at À TERRA. Perfect for a rejuvenating escape.

  • Back to Nature - Reconnect with nature through scenic trails, kayaking on serene lagoons, and sustainable whale watching on São Miguel Island
  • Sights nearby - Explore the lush Terra Nostra Park's botanical gardens and soak in its iron-rich thermal pool for a revitalising experience
  • Wildlife Area - Enjoy whale and dolphin watching tours, with expert guides ensuring responsible encounters with these majestic mammals
  • Spa breaks - Indulge in the soothing thermal pools and rejuvenating spa treatments, surrounded by the peaceful volcanic landscape
from €198 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Quinta dos Peixes Falantes

Sao Miguel Island (Azores)

On the island of São Miguel close to Santa Bárbara Beach, this traditional Portuguese property offers 2 studios and 2 cottages. Charming interiors are comfortable and homely, boasting terraces with views to the gardens and the outdoor pool. A great choice for a peaceful getaway.

  • Back to Nature - The area is a nature-lover's paradise, full of great trails and views. Its volcanic past is visible in the numerous hot springs
  • Local exploring - Take the back roads through pretty towns and villages like Lomba da Maia, Salga, and Achada to get a slice of local life
  • Groups - Book out the whole property for relaxing group stays in a gorgeous setting
  • Sights nearby - The attractive Lagoa de Fogo (Lake of Fire) – formed by a volcanic eruption in 1563 – is a short drive away
from €200 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia