What is the most beautiful part of the Azores?

Of the islands that make up the Azores archipelago, São Miguel is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. Its heavenly beaches and lush vegetation have earned it the nickname “the Hawaii of Europe.” Measuring almost 750 km2, it is the largest island in the Azores.



The Azores are often called the "Hawaii of the Atlantic," and in 2026, São Miguel remains the top choice for overall beauty due to its diverse landscapes. The most iconic sight is Sete Cidades, featuring twin crater lakes—one green and one blue—viewable from the famous Vista do Rei viewpoint. However, for sheer dramatic beauty, many travelers point to the island of Flores, characterized by its lush greenery, sheer cliffs, and the Cascata da Ribeira Grande waterfalls. Pico Island offers a different kind of beauty with its stark volcanic landscapes and the majestic Mount Pico, Portugal's highest peak. For those seeking pristine coastal views, the fajãs of São Jorge—coastal plateaus formed by lava flows—provide some of the most unique and rugged scenery in the archipelago. Ultimately, the "most beautiful" part depends on your preference: São Miguel for geothermal wonders and lakes, Flores for waterfalls, or Pico for dramatic volcanic silhouettes.

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The Canary Islands The Canaries boast better weather than the Azores. It's mild all year which makes it a go to beach destination even in the winter. The warmest of the islands is Fuerteventura, as it's the closest to mainland Africa.

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The Azores islands are a group of Portuguese islands located in the Atlantic Ocean between the U.S. and mainland Europe. They're a true hidden gem, but are quickly piquing North American travelers' interests—São Miguel even made our list of stunning islands in Portugal that you need to visit.

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