If you are thinking about visiting the island of São Miguel for your vacation, you are probably wondering when is the best time of the year to travel to São Miguel. Well, you’re in luck! São Miguel has a humid subtropical climate, which means that temperatures are mild all year round, making any time a great time to visit this wonderful island.
That said, if we had to describe São Miguel's weather in one word, it would be unpredictable. On the same day, you can experience clear, sunny skies, and shortly after, it might start raining. Not only that, but it's quite common to find yourself in a place where it's raining, and after a five-minute drive, arrive at another place where it's sunny.
It’s true that you’ll likely encounter rain during much of your trip, but nothing that a good raincoat can’t fix, right? These rains are responsible for the incredible green color that dominates the entire island of São Miguel. But don’t worry, as it rarely rains all day, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy outdoor activities.
If you love adventure and nature, don't miss out on the best activities on the island of São Miguel. You can experience things like swimming with wild dolphins or canyoning. There are so many amazing experiences!
However, the weather isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing the best time to travel to São Miguel. Other factors such as tourist influx, prices, or personal interests also play a role in this decision.
Let’s get started with this post about the best time to travel to São Miguel!
When is the best time of the year to visit São Miguel - Contents:
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The Climate of São Miguel
The climate of São Miguel, like the rest of the Azores archipelago, is subtropical oceanic. This type of climate is characterized by moderate temperatures throughout the year, high humidity, and a significant amount of precipitation distributed fairly evenly.
The subtropical climate of São Miguel (and the Azores) is characterized by:
Moderate temperatures all year round, making these islands an ideal destination at any time, especially for those who are more sensitive to the cold. To give you an idea, summer temperatures range between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C), while in winter, the "coldest" season, they rarely drop below 50°F (10°C), ranging between 54°F and 63°F (12°C to 17°C).
Humidity is quite high across all the islands and remains constant throughout the year. In fact, it’s not unusual for your accommodation to have a dehumidifier to prevent humidity from accumulating indoors. This humidity caused by the Atlantic has its positive points: it contributes to the lush vegetation of the Azores and keeps the temperature stable throughout the day (and throughout the year!).
Rainfall is very frequent, and we assure you that you won’t escape a good downpour during your visit to São Miguel or any other island in the Azores. If you don’t like rain, think of it as a small price to pay for enjoying these natural wonders. But we have good news! These rains are frequent but also short and abrupt, so you rarely experience a whole day of rain. More commonly, you’ll see periods of rain interspersed with clear skies on the same day, and sometimes, you’ll only need a 5-minute drive to go from rain to clear skies.
From our point of view, São Miguel's subtropical climate is part of the island's beauty and is perfect for enjoying it all year round.
Without these weather conditions, São Miguel wouldn’t have its dense and varied vegetation that defines it as the "green island." It wouldn’t be possible to have laurel forests, botanical gardens like the one in Terra Nostra Park, or tea plantations like those in Gorreana.
It also wouldn’t be possible to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, canyoning, or swimming in its lagoons. So, don’t let a bit of rain put you off. This is where the magic of São Miguel and the Azores lies!
For your stay in São Miguel, we recommend the Herdade do Ananás hotel, cozy and unique with its pineapple greenhouse; the Comercial Azores Boutique, located in the center of Ponta Delgada; and also the Canadiano Urban Nature, with a perfect quality-price ratio.
The 4 Seasons in São Miguel: Which One to Choose?
If you’re lucky enough to choose the dates for your trip to São Miguel, here’s a bit more about the characteristics of each season. We hope this helps you pick the best time to visit São Miguel!
1. Spring (March-May)
Spring in São Miguel is an ideal time if you love nature and flora, as the temperatures are mild and nature is in bloom, making it a perfect time for hiking and exploring the island's natural parks.
During this time, São Miguel enjoys moderate and pleasant weather, although it can be somewhat unpredictable. Typical temperatures range between 59°F and 68°F (15°C to 20°C) during the day.
Rain is common, especially in March and April, but it tends to be short and interspersed with sunny periods. March and April are quite rainy, though by May the likelihood of rain starts to decrease.
Spring is the best time to visit botanical gardens and go hiking, so if that’s your goal, don’t hesitate!
2. Summer (June-August)
During the summer months, temperatures usually range between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C), making it a popular time to visit the island. The days are longer and there are more daylight hours to enjoy the tourist attractions and beaches.
Rain is less frequent compared to other seasons, making summer the sunniest time on the island and ideal for water activities such as snorkeling or diving.
Keep in mind that during this time, the island can be more crowded and prices might be higher since it’s the high season in São Miguel, though this also means there will be more activities available to enjoy.
If you like water sports, surfing, and other sea-related activities, this is the best time to visit São Miguel.
3. Autumn (September-November)
Autumn in São Miguel is a quiet and relaxed time to visit the island. Temperatures are usually mild and pleasant, ranging between 59°F and 68°F (15°C to 20°C), although it tends to be a rather rainy season.
During September and October, daytime temperatures typically range between 64°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C), with slightly cooler nights, though by November, temperatures begin to drop towards 59°F (15°C) during the day.
Rain becomes more frequent starting in October, but there are still many sunny and pleasant days, especially at the beginning of the season.
Additionally, prices may be lower and there are fewer tourists. Like spring, this is a good time for nature lovers and hikers.
4. Winter (December-February)
Winter in São Miguel can be rainy and humid, with temperatures ranging between 50°F and 59°F (10°C to 15°C). However, it’s a quiet time to visit the island and prices may be lower.
Though this season is the rainiest of the year, the precipitation is usually intermittent and can be followed by sunny periods. The climate is mild compared to many other regions, so you can still do most of the outdoor activities you could at any other time of the year.
Moreover, we believe it’s the best time to enjoy the various hot springs on the island of São Miguel; not only will you find fewer people, but the contrast in temperatures is a delight.
A good way to explore the hot springs of São Miguel is through these organized tours that depart from Ponta Delgada. Both are very comprehensive options that include a guided visit to the fumaroles and a lunch where you can try the famous Cozido das Furnas. The Kayak Tour on Lagoa das Furnas + Terra Nostra Park also includes kayaking on Lagoa das Furnas, and the Night Tour to Furnas Hot Springs has a special attraction: you can enjoy the Poça da Dona Beija at night!
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How to Choose? - Summary Table
Choosing the best time to visit São Miguel and the rest of the Azores is an important part of trip planning. That’s why we’ve prepared this table, where you can see a summary of the characteristics of each season in São Miguel, including the main advantages and disadvantages, and the recommended activities.
Don’t miss this table to choose the best time to travel to São Miguel:
Season | Spring (March-May) | Summer (June-August) | Autumn (September-November) | Winter (December-February) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Climate | Temperature: 59°F-68°F (15°C-20°C) / Rain: Common but short, with intervals of clouds and sun. | Temperature: 68°F-77°F (20°C-25°C) / Rain: Less frequent compared to other seasons. Sunniest period. | Temperature: 59°F-68°F (15°C-20°C) / Rain: Frequent, especially from October. Also sunny periods. | Temperature: 50°F-59°F (10°C-15°C) / Rain: Rainiest season, with intermittent showers. Also sunny periods. |
Advantages | (1) Blooming season, (2) fewer tourists than summer, (3) moderate weather. | (1) Best weather, (2) longer daylight hours, (3) more services and activities available. | (1) Fewer tourists, (2) pleasant weather, (3) autumn landscapes. | (1) Fewer tourists, (2) lower prices, (3) festive atmosphere (Christmas or Carnival). |
Disadvantages | (1) Unpredictable weather, (2) fewer services available. | (1) More tourists, (2) higher prices, (3) need for early reservations. | (1) Start of rainy season, (2) fewer services available. | (1) Most unpredictable weather, (2) more difficult outdoor activities, (3) fewer daylight hours. |
Best Activities | (1) Bird watching, (2) whale watching, (3) hiking, (4) visiting botanical gardens, (5) local festivities like Flower Festival or Holy Week (religious events). | (1) Beaches, (2) water activities, (3) boat trips, (4) swimming in the lagoons, (5) ideal for all outdoor activities. | (1) Hiking with autumn landscapes and changing colors, (2) visiting vineyards (harvest season). | (1) Natural hot springs, (2) coastal walks without tourists, (3) visiting museums, (4) local events like Christmas and Carnival. |
Our Favorite Time
In our opinion, the best time to visit São Miguel is in June or September. During these months, you can enjoy the advantages of summer weather, with pleasant temperatures, sunny days, and optimal sea water temperatures for water activities.
Additionally, in June and September, there are fewer tourists on the island than in July and August, making it easier to get around and enjoy the tourist attractions without the high-season crowds. You might also find lower prices for accommodation and flights during these months.
THE BEST ACTIVITIES IN SÃO MIGUEL!
