Surfing in the Azores
If you Google “Surfing Azores,” you might come across headlines like “European Hawaii” and “Surfing Paradise.” But before you pack your luggage with three surfboards, read this article. We aim to give you a realistic description of surfing conditions in São Miguel, depending on the season.
Geographical perspective: in the middle of nowhere
The Azores archipelago consists of nine islands divided into three groups: Eastern, Central, and Western. All of them enjoy a relatively mild climate, free from frosts, thanks to their location in the middle of the Gulf Stream—a warm-water ocean current. However, this central Atlantic location also makes the islands vulnerable to winds and storms that occasionally sweep across the ocean.
Most Atlantic storms originate in the west and north, meaning the further west you go, the rougher the weather tends to be. The shape and topography of each island also influence local conditions by creating sheltered regions protected from the wind. São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores and part of the Eastern group, boasts some of the best weather year-round, thanks to its three impressive volcanoes that shape the local climate.
Most Atlantic storms originate in the west and north, meaning the further west you go, the rougher the weather tends to be. The shape and topography of each island also influence local conditions by creating sheltered regions protected from the wind. São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores and part of the Eastern group, boasts some of the best weather year-round, thanks to its three impressive volcanoes that shape the local climate.
Another factor to consider is the proximity to storms creating the swell. Waves in the Azores are often stronger because they haven’t lost energy traveling long distances to the mainland. This can be exciting for some surfers but challenging for others.
Surf Seasons in the Azores
While it’s true you can surf in the Azores year-round, the frequency of consistent waves varies by season. In the winter strong storms often bring powerful swells, but they are typically paired with strong winds, and the waves may exceed what local spots can handle. When summer comes the Atlantic calms down, offering sunny days with a light breeze and small to medium-sized waves.
The wind direction is crucial for surf quality, therefore always check the forecast and choose between the north or south coast the one where it’s offshore. One great advantage of São Miguel is its size: switching coasts takes only about 20 minutes, so you can easily check both and pick the best spot.
Statistically, during a one-week holiday in São Miguel, you can expect 1–2 good surf sessions in winter and up to 4–5 in summer. Especially if you stay at the beach all day and surf twice when the waves are good. Campervan travelers, in particular, can park right in front of a spot and check the waves while relaxing in a cozy bed.
Statistically, during a one-week holiday in São Miguel, you can expect 1–2 good surf sessions in winter and up to 4–5 in summer. Especially if you stay at the beach all day and surf twice when the waves are good. Campervan travelers, in particular, can park right in front of a spot and check the waves while relaxing in a cozy bed.
Surfing for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced Surfers
Beginners
First-timers are in a good position because they don’t need consistent waves. Learning usually happens in white water—the area where waves have already broken into foam. Except during really stormy weather, these conditions are available year-round. Many surf schools operate throughout the year, providing equipment and experienced local coaches who pick the best spots for the conditions.
First-timers are in a good position because they don’t need consistent waves. Learning usually happens in white water—the area where waves have already broken into foam. Except during really stormy weather, these conditions are available year-round. Many surf schools operate throughout the year, providing equipment and experienced local coaches who pick the best spots for the conditions.
We can recommend one of the following schools to organize your first experience:
Santa Barbara Surf School
Azores Surf Center
Watergliders Surf Club
Santa Barbara Surf School
Azores Surf Center
Watergliders Surf Club
Advanced and intermediate surfers
Experienced surfers seeking barrels will find the winter season fascinating. Strong swells combined with offshore winds often create big, fast waves with deep tubes. Summer is more favorable for intermediates, with waves rarely exceeding overhead height. While the tourist season leads to more surfers in the water, the atmosphere remains relaxed rather than competitive.
Experienced surfers seeking barrels will find the winter season fascinating. Strong swells combined with offshore winds often create big, fast waves with deep tubes. Summer is more favorable for intermediates, with waves rarely exceeding overhead height. While the tourist season leads to more surfers in the water, the atmosphere remains relaxed rather than competitive.
Surf Spots
A quick search on surf forecast websites will reveal at least 15 surf spots around São Miguel. While generally accurate, this information often doesn’t clarify that many of these spots have a very narrow swell direction window, meaning they only work under specific conditions, which don’t happen often. Moreover, some spots feature underwater hazards like shallow rocks, while others have challenging access, such as steep trails along valley sides. These paths might not be obvious to travelers unfamiliar with the local geography. For a safer and more convenient experience, we recommend sticking to two well-known spots: Santa Bárbara on the North Coast and Milícias on the South Coast. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore more of the island’s surf offerings, consider hiring a local surf guide. You can make such arrangements through any of the surf schools mentioned earlier.
Surf Shops and Rentals
Given that surfing in the Azores is often a matter of chance, you might prefer to pack hiking gear and rent surf equipment if the conditions are good. Rental options are available at surf schools or shops such as Populo Surf Shop (Milícias Beach). Santa Bárbara Surf School in particular offers the largest selection of boards.
You’ll need a wetsuit to surf in the Azores. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the water here is several degrees warmer than on the mainland, but it’s still too cold for a bikini or shorts. Here are our wetsuit recommendations for different seasons, with flexibility to lean toward winter or summer options depending on your personal cold tolerance:
- Winter (November–May): 3/4 mm
- Summer (July–September): 2 mm shorty
- June and October: 3/2 mm
If you bring your own board and need accessories like surf wax, check out Populo Surf Shop, North Surge Surf Shop (Ribeira Grande). Watergliders Surf Club (Santa Bárbara Beach) also has a little shop with surf accessories and souvenirs.
You’ll need a wetsuit to surf in the Azores. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the water here is several degrees warmer than on the mainland, but it’s still too cold for a bikini or shorts. Here are our wetsuit recommendations for different seasons, with flexibility to lean toward winter or summer options depending on your personal cold tolerance:
- Winter (November–May): 3/4 mm
- Summer (July–September): 2 mm shorty
- June and October: 3/2 mm
If you bring your own board and need accessories like surf wax, check out Populo Surf Shop, North Surge Surf Shop (Ribeira Grande). Watergliders Surf Club (Santa Bárbara Beach) also has a little shop with surf accessories and souvenirs.
Conclusion
São Miguel may sound like a surfer’s dream, but it always has surprises in store — sometimes offering perfect surf conditions, and other times none at all. To avoid disappointment, we recommend planning your trip as an adventure rather than a dedicated surf trip. Explore the island’s stunning nature, and if the waves cooperate, enjoy an unforgettable session with a backdrop of black sand beaches, lush green hills, and maybe even a rainbow over the lineup.
