Azores Weather: A Guide to the Islands’ Climate
The Azores are often described as the "Islands of Eternal Spring," yet a quick stroll through town reveals many tourist shops selling magnets, postcards, and hoodies bearing the same joke: “Azores: Four Seasons in One Day.” So, what is the weather really like in the Azores? In this article, we’ll explore the islands' general climate and share insider tips for enjoying each season.
The Unique Climate of the Azores
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.
São Miguel’s Climate: Subtropical and Ever-Changing
São Miguel’s climate is subtropical, characterized by a dry, sunny season from May to October, a stormy, rainy season from December to March, and transitional periods in between. These in-between seasons inspire the famous joke about experiencing four seasons in one day. However, the rapid shifts from rain to sun also produce frequent rainbows, often arching across the sky for hours, creating a stunning backdrop for photography.
Average temperatures range from 15°C to 18°C in winter and 24°C to 27°C in summer. Visitors may notice an interesting phenomenon: summer days feel warm but not overly hot, even with the sun shining high in a cloudless sky, while evenings remain pleasantly mild. This minimal day-to-night temperature fluctuation is due to the moderating effect of the surrounding ocean, which plays a larger role in shaping the temperature than the sun’s rays. As a result, the warmest month is August (rather than June, with its longest days), and the coldest month is March (not December, despite the shortest days).
Why “Eternal Spring”
The nickname "Islands of Eternal Spring" likely stems not from the weather itself, but from the islands' year-round floral beauty. No matter when you visit, you’ll find colorful blooms lining the roads and landscapes.
- December to February: Orange, torch-like aloe flowers dominate the scenery.
- February to March: Pink azalea bushes take over.
- April to May: Purple and white agapanthus, with their firework-like blooms, burst into view.
- June to July: The iconic hydrangeas — basketball-sized from fragile blue to deep purple — cover the island.
- August to September: Hydrangeas remain, but yellow Himalayan lilies join the show, adding a sweet tropical scent.
- October to November: Strange-looking Amaryllis Belladonna flowers emerge from bare stalks, revealing elegant pink blooms.
- December to February: Orange, torch-like aloe flowers dominate the scenery.
- February to March: Pink azalea bushes take over.
- April to May: Purple and white agapanthus, with their firework-like blooms, burst into view.
- June to July: The iconic hydrangeas — basketball-sized from fragile blue to deep purple — cover the island.
- August to September: Hydrangeas remain, but yellow Himalayan lilies join the show, adding a sweet tropical scent.
- October to November: Strange-looking Amaryllis Belladonna flowers emerge from bare stalks, revealing elegant pink blooms.
Even putting aside the great diversity of blooming plants you can find in the parks and botanical gardens, this vibrant cycle continues, making every season feel like spring.
When to Visit: Seasonal Tips
If you’re wondering which season is best for your trip, the answer depends on what you’re looking for. Here’s our suggestion:
Summer (June to September)
This is the best weather for those seeking a warm ocean and sunny days. Since this is a popular time to visit, summer is the high tourist season in the Azores, meaning you’re unlikely to be alone on a hike or at a beautiful waterfall… unless you stay overnight somewhere close to a remote site and visit as an early bird. This option is easily accessible when you are a campervan traveler!
Winter (December to February)
Visiting the Azores in winter is worthwhile if you appreciate the raw beauty of nature and enjoy having places almost entirely to yourself. While there is a high chance of windy and cloudy weather, the rain never lasts for long, so you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities. Moreover, there are usually at least a couple of sunny days each week. In the event of a strong storm, you might need to spend most of a day indoors, but if you’re in a campervan, you can park with an ocean view and enjoy the dramatic show.
Rainbow Season (March to May, October to December)
The mix of rain and sunshine during these months brings rainbows to the sky and a wild explosion of lush greenery. The interseason offers the best of everything: sunny days for beach outings and cloudy days for misty hikes through the forest. As a campervan traveler, you’ll enjoy the freedom to remain flexible and let the weather guide your plans.
Summer (June to September)
This is the best weather for those seeking a warm ocean and sunny days. Since this is a popular time to visit, summer is the high tourist season in the Azores, meaning you’re unlikely to be alone on a hike or at a beautiful waterfall… unless you stay overnight somewhere close to a remote site and visit as an early bird. This option is easily accessible when you are a campervan traveler!
Winter (December to February)
Visiting the Azores in winter is worthwhile if you appreciate the raw beauty of nature and enjoy having places almost entirely to yourself. While there is a high chance of windy and cloudy weather, the rain never lasts for long, so you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities. Moreover, there are usually at least a couple of sunny days each week. In the event of a strong storm, you might need to spend most of a day indoors, but if you’re in a campervan, you can park with an ocean view and enjoy the dramatic show.
Rainbow Season (March to May, October to December)
The mix of rain and sunshine during these months brings rainbows to the sky and a wild explosion of lush greenery. The interseason offers the best of everything: sunny days for beach outings and cloudy days for misty hikes through the forest. As a campervan traveler, you’ll enjoy the freedom to remain flexible and let the weather guide your plans.
Conclusion
The Azores offer something special in every season, whether you’re chasing summer sun, winter solitude, or the magical rainbows of spring and autumn. With its mild climate, breathtaking landscapes, and year-round floral displays, this Atlantic paradise is truly a destination for all seasons. Explore it with luxurious comfort and the ultimate freedom of self-sufficient camping.
