São Jorge Island is one of the more distinctive islands in the Azores archipelago, characterized by its long, thin "dragon-like" shape. It measures approximately 53 to 55 kilometers (33 to 34 miles) in length and reaches a maximum width of only 7 to 8 kilometers (about 5 miles). The total land area is roughly 246 square kilometers (95 square miles). Geographically, it is a massive volcanic ridge rising steeply from the Atlantic Ocean, with its highest point being Pico da Esperança at 1,053 meters (3,455 feet). The island is famous for its "fajãs"—small, fertile coastal plateaus formed by ancient lava flows or landslides at the base of towering cliffs. Because of its narrow width, you are never more than a few kilometers from the sea, yet the rugged central mountain range makes the island feel much larger and more untamed than its square mileage suggests. It is a premier destination for hikers who want to experience dramatic vertical scenery and a traditional, slower pace of life across its two main municipalities, Velas and Calheta.