Yes, São Miguel does have sand beaches! It’s got a bit of everything from stretching and beautiful to hidden and unique, here are my top five.
I made a map, took some photos, added a bit of info and linked the coordinates, enjoy your day at the beach!
Praia de Santa Bárbara
Why it’s one of the best:
- It’s long, sandy and the surf is great.
- Aside from a small bar at one end of the stretch, you can’t see a single building.
- Parking is great and it’s close to the town of Ribeira Grande.
It’s a popular beach amongst young people and surfers. Surrounded by cliffs and with minimal submerged rocky areas it’s a great beach to spend the day. Ribeira Grande is also home to the islands cheapest Thermal Springs if you need to warm up after a day in the ocean.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Not content with a side view of the sunset? Head to Mosteiros.
Praia de Mosteiros
Why it’s one of the best:
- It’s a sunset facing sandy beach.
- You get epic views of huge volcanic rocks jutting out of the ocean.
- You’re in Mosteiros, it’s a lovely little town definately worth an explore.
This is a pretty out of the way non touristy area of the island, it’s doubtful you will be alone but it won’t be difficult to get a good view of the ocean. Try the Bifana from the food vans on the waterfront!
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Hoping for something a little more picture perfect? Head to Porto Formaso.
Praia dos Moinhos
Why it’s one of the best:
- It’s smaller and more secluded than many along the northern coastline.
- The town of Porto Formaso is a delight!
- There are some great walks and viewpoints in the area.
What can I say? It’s surrounded by nature and a quaint town, there is parking and a bar and the beach is beautiful.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Prefer the calmer waters on the south coast? We’ve got a suggestion.
Praia de Agua D’Alto
Why it’s one of the best:
- It’s well known for it’s clear waters.
- It’s somewhat secluded and surrounded by cliffs.
- In the summertime there are a lot of activities here such as snorkeling, scuba and other waterports..
It can get pretty busy in the high season and parking isn’t bountiful, so keep this in mind, but the popularity does mean that the amenities are great and there is usually a lifeguard on duty.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will take you there.
Looking for something truly unique? Here we go.
Ilhéu De Vila Franca Do Campo
Why it’s one of the best:
- It’s on the tiny island that sits just below Vila Franca.
- The beach is beautiful but the island is definitely worth visiting anyway.
- The island is a protected nature reserve. (this does mean it comes with some conditions)
You can buy an 8euro roundtrip ticket to the island from the ferry booth, but be aware that the number of visitors to the island is often regulated to preserve the foliage and not overload the amenities.
Sound like the one you’re looking for? Google maps will show you where it is, but you’ll need to check the ferry schedules beforehand.
Those were our top five Sandy Beaches on backpackers on São Miguel island! Enjoy the sand between your toes and check us out more as the website develops.