The Absolute Best Time To Visit the Azores

Okay, so you know WHERE you want to go, but do you know WHEN the best time to visit the Azores is? There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination only to find out that everything is closed for the season or the weather pattern is less than favorable for the duration of your stay. Not to fear, Jordan’s here! Read on to find out the best time to visit the Azores so you can avoid the unexpected.

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The Best Time To Visit the Azores (in General)

The best time to visit really just depends on what you want to do in the Azores. If you enjoy warmer weather and want to have fun in the sun and enjoy water activities, summer is ideal. For milder temperatures and fewer crowds, spring and autumn are prime. Winter could be your best bet if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly trip and want to experience the local culture.

Generally speaking, the Azores in May, June, September, and October are considered ideal. But I’m not just going to tell you when to visit the Azores overall, but I will share the best time to visit each of the nine islands, so you can decide which one is best for you. Get your notepad ready because here we go!

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The Best Time To Visit São Miguel

May

May is a wonderful month to visit São Miguel. The weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). The landscapes are lush with blooming flowers and greenery. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the island. Additionally, May falls before the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations.

June

June is another great month to visit São Miguel. The temperatures continue rising, providing pleasant outdoor activities and exploration weather. The island is in full bloom, and you can witness the beautiful colors of the flora. June is also the start of various cultural events and festivals, offering a chance to experience the local culture and traditions.

September

September is considered one of the best months to visit São Miguel. The summer crowds begin to dissipate, and you can explore the island’s attractions with fewer tourists. September is also an excellent time for whale watching, as many species pass through the Azores during this period. Additionally, you can enjoy outdoor activities, visit natural wonders, and experience the local culture without the peak season rush.

nordeste in the azores - best month to visit azores

The Best Time To Visit Santa Maria

You can’t go wrong with the month you choose for peak good weather because the weather is nice year-round here. On average, the warmest months are July through October, and the rainiest months are October and December. The climate in January is ideal, especially coming from winter weather in regions of Europe or North America, but you won’t be sad if you choose any other time either. Peak tourist season is July and August, so if you want to avoid crowds, go literally any other month, and you’ll be okay.

The Best Time To Visit São Jorge

Regarding climate, November is the best month to visit São Jorge. Pro tip: don’t go during February through April unless you love constant rainfall. Visitors to the island peak in August, and it gets pretty crowded, which is perfect for all you extroverts out there. July and September are a bit slower, but November through March is the best time to go so other travelers don’t overwhelm you.

best time to visit sao jorge island azores

The Best Time To Visit Graciosa

This island tends to have a milder climate than the others in the Azores. It doesn’t get as much rain as the rest either, but the very best time to visit is June to September. The temperatures are pleasant, and you can also attend one of the MANY local summer festivals that are held on the island.

The Best Time To Visit Pico Island

July is a great time to visit Pico Island. The days are longer, providing ample time to explore. July is a great time for hiking, especially to the summit of Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal. You can enjoy the must-see Azores beaches, visit vineyards, and participate in whale-watching excursions. You can also attend cultural events and festivals to experience the vibrant local atmosphere.

The Best Time To Visit Faial Island

June through November is one of the best times to visit Faial Island. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking and enjoying the charming marina area. June marks the beginning of the island’s summer season, and there are many local events that take place on the island during this time. Don’t forget to sign up for a whale-watching excursion!

The Best Time To Visit Terceira

August is ideal if you want to visit Terceira Island. This is a lively month with several traditional festivals taking place, including the renowned Festas da Praia. This festival includes parades, bullfights, live music, and various cultural events. Additionally, August offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the island’s historical sites, and enjoying the beautiful beaches and coastal areas.

The Best Time To Visit Flores Island

You can’t really go wrong with Flores Island. The best months for good weather are February through November, so basically, the entire year is a green light. Another cool thing about Flores is that it’s pretty remote, so you won’t run into any crowds at any point during the year. June is ideal for outdoor activities, and this month also has longer daylight hours, providing ample time to explore the island.

The Best Time To Visit Corvo Island

Corvo is unique in that it’s the most remote island in the Azores, and it’s the only island where the best time to visit is October. It’s an ideal time for birdwatching, as Corvo Island is a haven for many migratory bird species. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, this island is your paradise. Additionally, you can experience the culture and traditions firsthand during local events that take place on the island.

Azores Temperature by Month

To make it even easier, here’s a chart to help give you a basic understanding of the weather in the Azores year-round. This isn’t set in stone because, as we all know, weather changes on a dime. But this will give you a general idea of what you can expect during each month.

MONTH	HIGH / LOW	AVERAGE RAINFALL
January	62° / 54°F (16° / 12°C)	7.7 in (133 mm)
February	62° / 53°F (16° / 11°C)	6.7 in (170 mm)
March	62° / 54°F (16° / 12°C)	6.1 in (155 mm)
April	63° / 54°F (17° / 12°C)	4.1 in (105 mm)
May	66° / 57°F (19° / 14°C)	4.1 in (105 mm)
June	70° / 61°F (21° / 16°C)	3.7 in (95 mm)
July	75° / 64°F (24° / 18°C)	2.4 in (60 mm)
August	77° / 66°F (25° / 19°C)	2.8 in (70 mm)
September	75° / 65°F (24° / 12°C)	4.9 in (125 mm)
October	71° / 62°F (21° / 16°C)	7.1 in (180 mm)
November	66° / 58°F (19° / 14°C)	7.1 in (180 mm)
December	64° / 56°F (18° / 13°C)	8.9 in (225 mm)

Ultimately, It’s Your Decision.

I can sit here all day and tell you the best time to visit the Azores islands, but ultimately, it’s up to you and your overall preference. Speaking of which, if you prefer quirky destinations and hole-in-the-wall places, follow me for even more adventures!

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