7 Best Hot Springs in São Miguel, Azores

If you plan a trip to the Azores, I highly recommend visiting at least one hot spring to experience the healing thermal waters. If you have the time during your stay on the islands, definitely try to squeeze in more than one visit and try pools that offer different experiences. You can also book nighttime bathing experiences or visit a hot spring for sunset to really maximise the experience, if you have a packed adventure schedule for your holiday then this would also be a lovely way to unwind after a long day of hiking and exploring. Here are the 7 best hot springs to choose from:

Caldeira Velha Hot Spring – Bathe in Jungle Pools

These thermal pools are nestled in the jungle and are the most mystical of the hot springs on São Miguel. Caldeira Velha is an official natural monument and is surrounded by lush vegetation, birdsong and mist, its pure magic. Here you can see the healing waters trickling into the pools and can even enjoy a relaxing massage in these areas. I recommend booking the first slot of the day and going first thing in the morning when the mist is rising across the pools and jungle. There are three pools to explore, the top one with the waterfall is the coolest, but also the most spectacular. Visit the top pool first and get your photos, then wander down to the other pools to warm up. Cold water showers are available and you can also book lockers online to store your things.

Make sure you pre-book tickets online the day before to avoid disappointment as these springs are popular and same-day tickets are not available online. You can arrive and pay on the gate, but check online first that it is not fully booked. If you're visiting the Azores but are not hiring a car, you can either get a taxi to the springs or you can book one of these tours.

>> Buy tickets online here.

Cascata das Lombadas Hot Springs & Waterfall in the Jungle (HIDDEN GEM)

If you’re feeling adventurous, you need to check out the hidden gem hot springs at Cascata das Lombadas! I only discovered these thanks to a lovely travelling couple who had just finished the hike back up as I arrived. These hot springs are hidden deep in the Azorean jungle and have a direct view of the incredible waterfall.

They are the least accessible of the hot springs and I recommend these only to the most physically able as there is a very slippery and steep 30 minute hike down to the waterfall, then some rock scrambling to reach the hot springs. It is so worth visiting, we were the only people there for hours and you can bathe in a bubbling thermal pool as you watch the waterfall crashing over the rocks above.

Poça da Dona Beija – The Prettiest Hot Spring & Hotel

If you're looking for a beautiful, colourful collection of jungle pools to explore, try Poça da Dona Beija which is part of a hotel. It has the best thermal pools for sunset sessions or night-time stargazing and offers sessions until it closes at 11pm. It does get busy at night, but a dip in the luxuriously warm waters is most welcome after a hard day of hiking. If you prefer to enjoy the pools at a quieter time, try a weekday morning when you can avoid the crowds. Enjoy the selection of pools at different depths and temperatures, some even have waterfalls and pressure jets for a natural massage.

Based in the Furnas area, Poça da Dona Beija is full of natural volcanic minerals so don’t forget to look at the pool walls for the natural iron clay and use it as a facial mask to have instantly soft and supple skin. The natural spa is open daily from 7am to 11pm, and temperatures in the pools range from 25ºC to 39ºC. I recommend pre-booking as this hot spring gets busy. The ticket includes access to various thermal baths/pools, support infrastructure, and the souvenir shop. A basket is available at the store entrance for your belongings. Cold water showers are also included.

>> Buy tickets online here

>> Book a night-time hot spring experience & dinner

Parque Terra Nostra – The Biggest Hot Springs in the Azores

The famous waters of Furnas provide the perfect place for a warm soak in the stunning grounds and gardens of Parque Terra Nostra, one of the most well-known hot springs. Dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, there are a collection of pools to explore between 10am and 6pm, but if you stay in the beautiful Terra Nostra Hotel you get 24/7 access and don't need to pay an entrance fee.

These thermal baths are rich in minerals such as iron, but this does turn the water a brownish colour (this means it's great for your skin!) which can put some people off. Be sure to take an old swimsuit so you don't stain your clothes. You will also find some smaller natural jacuzzis, while the main pool is large enough to swim laps!

>> Buy tickets online here

Termas das Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande – an Authentic, Local Experience (HIDDEN GEM)

One of the oldest thermal baths in the Azores, Termas das Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande dates back to the 19th century. It features a charming pool surrounded by flowers and is considered the most romantic hot spring. There are just three small pools, but only one open to the public, and the can be found in the backyard of a 19th century hotel building. This is the best hot spring if you're looking for a budget-friendly and authentic local experience as this is the least visited by tourists.

With thermal waters rich in minerals at around 39ºC, the pool is open from 9am to 6pm and costs just €4 (€2 for children). This oasis of wellbeing is a beautiful hidden gem for a peaceful hot spring experience in the Azores.

Ponta da Ferraria – a Hot Spring in the Ocean

Have a truly unique (and FREE) hot spring experience when you visit São Miguel in the Azores, when you visit Ponta da Ferraria. A hub of volcanic activity located just under the rocky ocean floor, you can enjoy bubbling thermal waters amid the crashing waves of the Atlantic. Be cautious at these thermal baths, they can get super hot and it's important to visit at the right time of day to maximise your experience.

The best time to visit Ponta da Ferraria is at low tide when the waves are less intense and you can feel the real benefits of the warm waters. You can also find some great spots where the thermal waters meet the cooler ocean waves if the temperatures are too high. There is a lifeguard here to prevent people swimming when the waves are too high – visiting this hot spring is very weather-dependent. There are also toilets, showers and a car park here.

Termas da Ferraria Luxury Spa

If you're craving an experience that goes beyond the thermal pools, you can check out Termas da Ferraria Spa which is close to Ponta da Ferraria but provides a luxury hot spring. This retreat is located on the ocean's edge and is a perfect place to watch the sunset. With an array of geothermal pools and spa treatments, plus a restaurant for dining, it's a hub for relaxation and wellness on São Miguel. Enjoy jacuzzis and saunas, thermal pools, cold water plunges, Turkish baths, indoor swimming pools and a range of massages.

Tips for Visiting Azores Hot Springs

If you're visiting the hot springs on São Miguel, it's worth knowing these tips before you go so you can really make the most of your time on the island:

The thermal waters in the hot springs are rich in minerals which means they are often brownish in colour. Don't make the mistake of taking a white or light coloured swimsuit if you want to avoid it getting stained. Opt for dark colours instead.
If you have light coloured hair, dyed or highlighted hair, make sure to tie it back and avoid getting it wet or you may find the water turns it orangey or stains.
Remove your jewellery before going in the pools (especially gold or silver)
Don't take any products into the pools such as shampoo which could contaminate the waters.
Always be cautious of the pools and the temperatures, these can fluctuate depending on the weather/time of year and how close to the source you are, some of the wild pools are unregulated so you need to be safe.
Be aware of how the temperatures affect you, if you start to feel dizzy or overheat, exit the pools immediately.
Always take a good pair of flip flops to wear outside of the pools where there may be some rock, slippery or gravel surfaces.
Make sure you remember to take warm clothes, a towel or dry robe to warm up after you exit the pools, even if the weather is good, you will notice a drop in body temperature.
Keep these beautiful outdoor spaces clean for others and make sure you take your rubbish away.
Either rent a car so you can access the hot springs independently, or book a tour to learn more about the volcanic thermal waters.

Packing List for São Miguel's Thermal Baths

Here are the top items you should pack before visiting hot springs on São Miguel, trust me, you'll be glad you did!

Waterproof bag & phone case – save your valuables from the thermal waters (or an unexpected rain shower!)
Dark-coloured swimsuit – I love this one!
Quick-dry lightweight towel – this one is also 100% recycled!
Waterproof flip-flops – look for ones with grip for slippery surfaces
Dry Robe – if you're visiting out of season this is a great way to warm up!

Where to stay on São Miguel

If you're looking for a place to stay on São Miguel, the most popular and busiest area is Ponta Delgada which is where you will find lots of restaurants and bars. This is a great area to base yourself as it is central to the island and easy to access anywhere with a hire car. Check out:

The Farm - Azores Boutique House for a beautiful boutique hotel stay.

However, if you are hiring a car, I recommend looking outside of the busier areas. Check out these top hotels and unique accommodations:

Doubletree By Hilton Lagoa Azores – a brand new hotel in up-and-coming area Lagoa
Furnas Lake Forest Living – perfect for nature and adventure lovers!

Hiring a Car on São Miguel

If you are visiting the Azores, I highly recommend hiring a car on São Miguel – it is by far the best and most cost-effective way to get around the island. It is easy to navigate and drive around the island, and car hire starts from just £2 per day! If you prefer not to drive, I recommend booking a group tour in the Azores so you can access everywhere.

Hi, I'm Lucy

I’m all about empowering travellers to seek a life outside the ordinary, to make solo female adventure travel your reality. I share tips for solo travel no matter what your budget or time frame, and inspire you to visit countries that challenge you.

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