Do Not Sleep On this Island Paradise
By Gaby Keiderling
Despite its hype as the “Hawaii of Europe,” the Azores remains a little-touched natural haven. While the Azores is an archipelago of nine volcanic islands, you don’t necessarily need to explore every single island to get a slice of tropical paradise. The main island, São Miguel, is a retreat for nature and adrenaline seekers alike.
From jetskiing to whale watching to sailing to surfing to canyoning, explore the stunning surroundings from the water. You can even go parasailing, river rafting, tubing, waterskiing—the list is truly endless. And beyond the water, there’s luxury retreats, incredible local eats, and more that await. Here’s some tips from when my boyfriend and I went last May.
What to Do
Of course, you rent a jetski here. For an avid surfer, Watergliders Surf Club is the spot. We spent our days on the island surfing waves that changed on a daily basis — changing from beginner-level bumps to expert swells within 24 hours. We booked epic experiences through Get Your Guide: canyoning (hiking through rapids and rappelling down waterfalls) and ATVing around Sete Cidades. If we had had more time, we would have added horseback riding, hiking, and touring the only functioning tea plantation in Europe. We’ll get to that on our next adventure.
Where to Stay
Santa Barbara Eco Resort
If you tried describing the most picturesque and luxe boutique island resort, you would most likely be describing Santa Barbara. Founded by surfer and entrepreneur João Reis, sustainability is at the hotel’s core. The island’s first eco beach resort is harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings and terrain to minimize impact on the landscape through a construction process that prioritized natural materials. The suites and villas (3o in all) have a kitchenette, living room, and spacious balcony; some have jacuzzis and saltwater pools. A gastronomic farm-to-table restaurant serves innovative and fresh food — and excellent aperitifs. The highlight of the resort was the black sandy beach, the homebase for local surfers. We spent every day at the adjacent surf shack, replenishing ourselves after a day catching waves at the Beach Club. The only bad part of Santa Barbara Eco Resort? Having to leave.
White Hotel
If you’re headed to the Azores for a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply we-time with your partner, Santa Barbara’s sister property is the intimate refuge you seek. How discreet is it? Well, we passed the hotel twice before realizing that an undistinguished white door was the entrance. Walking in, the ocean greeted us straight ahead. A firepit, infinity pool, and dining area sat perched above the waves. Inside, the minimalist design transported us to what we imagine a hidden five-star hotel in Greece would feel like. Renowned Portuguese chef Vitor Sobral (also the restaurant consultant of Santa Barbara) oversaw such meticulously crafted dishes as tuna tartare atop avocado puree and a salad of just-caught prawns.
Octant Furnas
A trip to the Azores isn’t complete without a visit to the island’s mineral hot springs. Which are situated right near Octant hotel in Furnas. Once you’ve dipped into the bubbling natural beauties (which also serve as an oven of sorts for the locals to cook in and also provide heat for the island), head to the spa at Octant. After spending time in the indoor and outdoor thermal pools, you might want a couples massage. Or a body treatment. Reflexology. Maybe some exfoliation. The list goes on. We finished our day with a dinner at À Terra, feasting on fresh bread, local cheeses, and a very large pork chop.
