Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia da Viola São Miguel Island's Hidden Black Sand Paradise

Tucked away on the Azores' largest island, São Miguel, Praia da Viola presents a captivating black sand haven. Its unique black sands, a product of volcanic activity, create a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape. The beach is a favorite among experienced surfers who appreciate its less crowded waves and potentially challenging breaks. To reach this gem, a walk along a trail linking the villages of Lomba da Maia and Maia provides a scenic approach, a reminder of São Miguel's natural charm. While Praia da Viola might be a hidden delight, São Miguel boasts a remarkable collection of over 20 black sand beaches, each with a slightly different character and perspective. From the longest and most popular stretch at Praia de Santa Bárbara to the unique thermal waters at Praia do Fogo, this island offers a beach experience to suit every taste. Praia da Viola, with its seclusion and appeal to surfers, stands out as a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a balance of relaxation and exciting adventure.

Praia da Viola's black sand is a product of São Miguel's volcanic history, a blend of volcanic ash and basalt. This dark sand, while visually appealing, absorbs heat more readily than lighter-colored sands, leading to a noticeable temperature increase on the beach surface. This peculiarity impacts both the surrounding environment and the experience of anyone seeking sun and relaxation.

The island's topography and its interaction with ocean currents produce impressive waves at Praia da Viola, a fact that attracts surfers looking for a more challenging, less crowded break. The relative isolation of the beach also translates to lower prices in nearby lodgings and local eateries, offering a potentially more economical visit compared to other popular spots on the Azores.

The cliffs surrounding Praia da Viola, carved by a combination of erosion and volcanic activity, provide a unique hiking experience. The trails traversing these formations give visitors a fascinating vantage point from which to appreciate the volcanic heritage of the island. However, it's important to note that these natural features are subject to change as the island's geology remains active, with occasional landslides reshaping the landscape.

São Miguel, blessed with a mild, temperate climate, maintains an average temperature of roughly 15-20°C throughout the year. This ensures the island remains a desirable travel destination outside of the traditional summer months. The formation of Praia da Viola itself is a direct result of the Azores' location along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a geological feature shaping the region’s geography and contributing to an abundant marine ecosystem just offshore.


The local cuisine of São Miguel Island offers an interesting reflection of the island's volcanic origins. Many local dishes are influenced by the unique volcanic soil and the agricultural practices employed on the island. The unique combination of the island’s volcanic terrain and the local cuisine is a powerful reminder of the impact of geology on everyday life.

The tranquil atmosphere of Praia da Viola is a welcome break from modern life. Its somewhat isolated location leads to unreliable cellular service, which, while not ideal for some, creates a compelling opportunity for a digital detox, a welcome escape from the always-connected modern world.

What else is in this post?

1. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia da Viola São Miguel Island's Hidden Black Sand Paradise
2. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Mosteiros Natural Pools Volcanic Rock Formations Meet Atlantic Waves
3. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia Formosa Santa Maria Island's Golden Sand Stretch
4. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo São Jorge's Secluded Lagoon Beach
5. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia do Almoxarife Faial's Black Sand with Pico Mountain Views
6. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Porto Pim Bay Horta's Crescent-Shaped Urban Beach Haven
7. Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia dos Moinhos São Miguel's Dramatic Cliffside Cove

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Mosteiros Natural Pools Volcanic Rock Formations Meet Atlantic Waves

On São Miguel's northwestern coast, the village of Mosteiros boasts a captivating stretch of coastline where rugged volcanic rock formations meet the dynamic Atlantic Ocean. The beach here, with its distinctive black sand, is a product of the island's volcanic heritage, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding landscape. The black sand, while aesthetically pleasing, absorbs heat more quickly than lighter-colored sands, which can alter the beach's temperature. Beyond the visual appeal, the volcanic landscape has carved out natural swimming pools within the rocky shoreline. These pools offer a unique and refreshing experience, especially when the Atlantic is less boisterous. However, the ocean's power is ever-present, and the waves can be formidable, attracting experienced surfers who appreciate the challenging conditions. Adding to the visual appeal, a series of small, statue-like lava rock islets rise from the water just off the shore. These islets, combined with the interplay of the waves against the cliffs, elevate Mosteiros' scenic value. Local amenities, such as kiosks offering refreshments, complement the natural beauty of the area. Mosteiros' blend of geological features and opportunities for relaxation and water sports, makes it a rewarding side trip during any visit to the Azores.

Mosteiros, a fishing village on São Miguel's northwestern coast, is defined by its dramatic volcanic landscape where the Atlantic's energy collides with ancient basalt formations. These formations, sculpted by countless eruptions over millennia, create a series of natural pools, a marvel of nature's engineering. The pools, filled by the ebb and flow of the ocean, offer a unique swimming experience, a refreshing alternative to conventional swimming areas.

The powerful Atlantic waves, a constant reminder of the ocean's force, carve out these pools, constantly reshaping the landscape and altering the swimming conditions depending on the tides. While they might be enjoyable when calm, the waves can become quite powerful, attracting experienced surfers who seek challenging breaks. Some believe the mineral-rich water holds therapeutic properties, infusing the pools with a natural element that soothes aches and pains. Beyond the pools, the intertidal zones teem with diverse marine life, like sea urchins and starfish, thriving amidst the rocky environment shaped by the volcanic formations.

The stark contrast between the dark, rough-hewn volcanic rock and the sparkling turquoise ocean provides an almost surreal beauty. At sunset, the scene transforms into a palette of fiery oranges and pinks, a sight that might inspire a photographer or artist. Interestingly, Mosteiros is still relatively unknown to the larger tourist masses. Consequently, lodging and food are comparatively affordable, offering a budget-friendly travel experience, especially when you consider the natural wonders this area offers.

The local cuisine offers a fascinating glimpse into how the volcanic soil influences the island's culinary tradition. Fish, caught fresh from the waters nearby, is often featured in meals, highlighting the bounty of the ocean. The ingredients are rooted in the local environment, mirroring the connection between the landscape and the people who live there.

The natural pools are a testament to the resilience of geological features. Over time, they have withstood the constant force of ocean waves and the region's volatile history, showcasing nature's capability to create dynamic structures. Although it’s somewhat remote, Mosteiros is reachable via established roads from Ponta Delgada. Recent transportation upgrades further improve accessibility, making it a more practical choice for explorers seeking experiences beyond the beaten track of Azores tourism.

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia Formosa Santa Maria Island's Golden Sand Stretch

Praia Formosa on Santa Maria Island is a beautiful beach notable for its golden sand, a rare find in the Azores where black volcanic sands are more common. Located on the southern coast, it provides a peaceful setting embraced by green hills. The tranquil atmosphere makes it perfect for families, particularly due to the gentle, shallow waters. Praia Formosa has earned a Blue Flag designation, signifying its exceptional cleanliness and environmental standards, adding to its appeal as a clean and serene destination. There are also conveniences like parking, restrooms, and showers, along with a snack bar, the Beach Parque Restaurant, known for its tasty food and drinks. This combination of factors makes Praia Formosa one of the more popular and scenic beaches in the Azores, attracting visitors who want a calm and naturally beautiful coastal retreat. It's often less crowded than some other beaches, making it even more appealing for those seeking quiet and relaxation in a beautiful setting.

### Praia Formosa: Santa Maria Island's Golden Sand Stretch

Praia Formosa, one of two golden sand beaches on Santa Maria Island, stands out in the Azores, where black volcanic sands typically dominate. Its location on the southern coast provides a serene atmosphere, framed by lush green hills. This beach has achieved Blue Flag status, a testament to its cleanliness and environmental standards. It's well-equipped for visitors with public parking, restrooms, and showers, along with a snack bar – the Beach Parque Restaurant – known for its food and drinks.

Its popularity stems from its picturesque beauty and tranquil atmosphere, drawing those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. The water here is calm and shallow, making it particularly family-friendly and safe for swimming. The surrounding scenery, characterized by rolling hills and expansive views, enhances its appeal. Interestingly, it often experiences lower crowds compared to other beaches, contributing to its peaceful ambiance.

While Praia Formosa is a highlight, Santa Maria Island has other interesting beaches, such as São Lourenço, known for its scenic vistas. The Azores, in general, display a remarkable range of beach types, from black sands to natural pools, showcasing the region’s diverse coastal geography.

The golden sands of Praia Formosa, while seemingly straightforward, are actually a unique mix of golden and white particles, suggesting a complex geological history shaped by both volcanic and marine influences over countless years. The beach’s location has yielded artifacts of the early settlers, indicating a rich cultural past, potentially dating back to the 15th century, and providing a fascinating window into the island’s early settlement patterns.

Santa Maria often enjoys an abundance of sunshine, averaging 3,100 hours per year, significantly more than other Azorean islands. This abundant sunshine ensures pleasant temperatures year-round, making Praia Formosa an appealing destination outside of typical summer vacation periods.

The waters around Praia Formosa teem with diverse marine life, including a variety of fish and octopuses, making it a hotspot for divers exploring its unique underwater terrain. This area is also intriguing from a geological perspective. Santa Maria is one of the oldest islands in the Azores, forged from volcanic activity millions of years ago. The geological processes that formed Praia Formosa continue to shape the landscape, drawing the attention of anyone interested in geology and the forces that sculpt the planet.

Despite being a relatively less-known destination, a growing number of budget airlines are beginning to serve Santa Maria Island, potentially making trips to Praia Formosa more affordable. The area also features distinctive limestone cliffs that stretch along the coast. These natural formations, shaped by erosion and geological forces over countless years, continue to change, creating a constantly evolving landscape for visitors.

The regional cuisine near Praia Formosa leverages the local abundance of fresh seafood, including local specialties like limpets, showcasing the connections between local commercial practices and the area’s natural resource base. Additionally, summer events in the area celebrate local culture, music, and traditions, making a visit to Praia Formosa a potentially enriching and entertaining experience. Lastly, the minimal light pollution in the area allows for excellent stargazing, attracting both amateur and professional stargazers alike. The night sky, visible from the beach, provides a spectacular view of constellations and other celestial events, further enhancing its attractiveness as a location worth visiting.

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo São Jorge's Secluded Lagoon Beach

Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, situated on the northern coast of São Jorge Island, is a hidden gem featuring a secluded lagoon beach. This unique location is the only spot in the Azores where clams are cultivated, making it a focal point for regional seafood. The lagoon is framed by dramatic cliffs and offers crystal-clear waters, creating a truly picturesque environment.

This tranquil spot is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, attracting bodyboarders and surfers with its scenic coastal setting. Reaching this secluded location requires a moderately challenging 50-mile hike, but the journey is often seen as rewarding due to the stunning landscapes and peaceful atmosphere awaiting visitors.

Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo holds great ecological importance. It stands out as a must-see destination for visitors to the Azores, wanting to experience the region’s stunning coastal diversity and explore one of its more unique natural settings.

Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, nestled on São Jorge Island's northern coast, presents a captivating, secluded lagoon beach experience. Its formation, a consequence of volcanic activity and erosion, has resulted in a unique ecosystem within the Azores. The lagoon itself is a remarkable feature, representing the natural forces at play as the ocean's waves and sediments have crafted its unique shape over time.

Access to this beach is a unique experience in itself. It's only accessible via hiking trails, requiring about a 45-minute trek from the closest settled areas. These trails offer an intriguing perspective, passing through a landscape characterized by vibrant vegetation, a testament to the region's volcanic soil's fertile properties.

Adding an element of surprise, the lagoon waters are influenced by thermal springs nearby, creating occasional, localized warm water pockets. This warmth is a direct consequence of the Azores' geothermal nature – the lingering effects of volcanic activity that continue to affect the area's hydrology.

The relative seclusion of Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo fosters a haven for diverse marine life, including fish species endemic to the region. It serves as a refreshing counterpoint to more heavily visited beaches, whose ecosystems often suffer from the impact of human presence.

The term "Fajã" itself reveals a fascinating geological process. These formations, created through the collapse of volcanic cliffs or the flow of lava, are a hallmark of the Azores. Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo illustrates this formation elegantly, highlighting nature's capability of crafting new and biologically rich habitats.

Its seclusion, while scenic, results in fewer tourism-related accommodation options, thus potentially leading to lower prices compared to other more easily accessible destinations in the Azores. Visitors seeking to explore the area should consider staying in neighboring villages or settlements, which often offer a more integrated experience.

The beach is surrounded by verdant vegetation, a visual trait reflecting the rich mineral content of the Azores' volcanic soil. This exceptional soil gives rise to a diverse range of plants, further enhancing the region's visual and ecological appeal.

The local culinary scene is deeply influenced by the abundance of fresh seafood, especially locally caught fish. Traditional recipes, passed down through generations, often unveil the close connection between the island's history, geography, and its culinary identity.

Beyond its current natural appeal, the area surrounding Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo possesses a rich history of human settlement. Its fertile surroundings encouraged agricultural practices, shaping its past and giving visitors a glimpse into the region's history alongside its stunning natural features.

With its striking cliffs, vibrant vegetation, and serene lagoon, Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo offers compelling photographic opportunities. The interplay of light and water creates a dynamic visual experience that attracts both amateur and serious photographers alike, and those who simply enjoy nature's artistry.

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia do Almoxarife Faial's Black Sand with Pico Mountain Views

Praia do Almoxarife, situated on Faial Island in the Azores, presents a beautiful blend of black volcanic sand and captivating views of Pico Mountain. Located a short distance north of Horta, the island's capital, it's considered the safest and most sheltered beach for swimming on Faial, making it a popular spot for families and those seeking calmer waters. The beach's tranquil environment is further enhanced by its stunning natural surroundings.

You'll find a range of amenities at Praia do Almoxarife, including restaurants and bars, showers, and even a dedicated park area. The beach also has a quayside, allowing for direct access to the water for diving and enjoying the warm, clear waters. Despite its desirable features, it's worth remembering that the beach can have larger waves and colder water than some others in the Azores. Occasionally, you might even encounter some seaweed. These aspects might not appeal to all swimmers, but the overall beauty and infrastructure make it a popular destination for many.

Ultimately, Praia do Almoxarife is a great example of Faial Island's natural beauty, a tranquil spot that balances convenience with remarkable views. It's an excellent choice for those who enjoy scenic locations and a relaxing beach experience without too much bustle.

Located about 3 kilometers north of Horta, Faial Island's capital, Praia do Almoxarife offers a unique beach experience within the Azores. The beach's defining characteristic is its expanse of black volcanic sand, primarily composed of basalt and volcanic ash. This dark sand, while visually striking, absorbs heat more readily than lighter sands, leading to noticeably warmer surface temperatures. It's a reminder that the islands' volcanic past continues to influence their present environment.

The beach is renowned as the safest and most protected swimming spot on Faial. This sheltered location, combined with the views of Pico Mountain, the tallest peak in Portugal, makes it a visually captivating destination. The mountain's prominence is a product of volcanic activity and the region's tectonic movements, making it a valuable vantage point for anyone fascinated by geology. The volcanic activity, coupled with the Atlantic waters, has fostered a vibrant marine environment, teeming with marine life like octopuses and diverse fish species. This biodiversity makes the coastal waters ideal for snorkeling, offering visitors an intriguing glimpse into the ecosystem shaped by geological processes.

Surrounding the beach are cliffs that create a network of hiking trails. These routes not only provide convenient access to the beach but also offer breathtaking panoramas of the sea and Pico Mountain. The trails, although less frequently used than other established paths, offer a more exclusive experience for those seeking a less crowded encounter with nature. Furthermore, the area shows evidence of human habitation dating back to the 15th century. Praia do Almoxarife, therefore, is more than just a beach—it represents a continuous connection between human history and the islands' volcanic landscapes.


One interesting feature is the notable difference in temperature between the black sand at Praia do Almoxarife and lighter sand beaches found elsewhere. This variation stems from the black sand's propensity to absorb heat, creating a unique thermal environment. The beach is also exposed to trade winds, influencing ocean currents and wave patterns, making it particularly attractive to surfers who seek more challenging surf conditions compared to other, calmer areas. It's intriguing that despite this potential for larger waves, it's considered the safest bathing beach on the island.

While the water is generally cool, some evidence points to occasional thermal spring activity near the beach. This provides sporadic opportunities for a warm-water dip, adding an unexpected facet to the typical beach experience. The region surrounding the beach remains relatively undeveloped compared to other tourist hubs in the Azores, making accommodations and dining options in the area relatively affordable. Additionally, the lack of urban development contributes to extremely low light pollution. As a result, stargazing at Praia do Almoxarife presents an exceptional opportunity to experience the night sky, especially appealing for those fascinated with astronomy or seeking a more tranquil and scenic nighttime experience.


Praia do Almoxarife is a testament to the unique interplay of volcanic forces, Atlantic currents, and human history on Faial Island. It's not just a scenic beach but a microcosm of the Azores – where volcanic history constantly reshapes the landscape and, surprisingly, influences both marine biodiversity and visitor experiences. It provides a valuable perspective for those seeking a glimpse into the region's diverse geological past and appreciating its present natural beauty.

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Porto Pim Bay Horta's Crescent-Shaped Urban Beach Haven

Porto Pim Bay, nestled on the island of Faial, is a picturesque urban beach distinguished by its crescent-shaped curve and golden sands. Its calm, shallow waters make it exceptionally suitable for families and anyone seeking a tranquil beach experience. This has made it a popular destination for visitors looking for a relaxing escape. The sheltered location of the bay provides ideal conditions for snorkeling, offering a chance to observe a range of marine life, including octopuses, manta rays, and even jellyfish.

Porto Pim's appeal extends beyond its natural beauty, as it holds historical significance as a former anchorage for ships during the great voyages of discovery. This link to the past is further highlighted by its mention in Herman Melville's "Moby Dick." Beyond its scenic appeal, the area surrounding Porto Pim is teeming with activities and attractions, from historical tours to local shops and restaurants, allowing visitors to delve into the local culture while enjoying the beach. This vibrant mix of nature and history makes Porto Pim a key spot to experience the diverse character of the Azores.

### Porto Pim Bay: Horta's Crescent-Shaped Urban Beach Haven

Porto Pim Bay, nestled on Faial Island, is widely considered Horta's premier beach, a testament to its attractiveness and accessibility. Historically, this bay was crucial as a whaling center, a significant chapter in Horta's past. Its defining feature is the gentle curve of its shoreline, a crescent-shaped expanse of golden sand fringed by crystalline water. This alluring combination makes it a popular spot for leisure, especially for those seeking relaxation.

Praia do Porto Pim, as it's also known, extends for over 350 meters, offering relatively shallow water – a feature ideal for families and swimmers who prefer a more tranquil environment. The bay's location provides natural shelter, making it an oasis for activities like snorkeling. Here, the careful observer might encounter fascinating sea life such as octopuses, manta rays, and jellyfish.

Porto Pim's historical importance isn't solely tied to whaling. It also played a role in the Age of Discovery, acting as a safe anchorage for ships charting new routes. This connection to maritime history is further cemented by mentions in Herman Melville's "Moby Dick", a book highlighting the importance of whaling and the role Faial played.

The beach is well-equipped with services and facilities, conveniently located near Horta's center. Almoxarife Beach, another nearby coastal feature, also attracts visitors, solidifying the area's reputation as a haven for enjoying the coast.

Monte da Guia, a striking natural formation, provides a stunning visual backdrop, enhancing the bay's picturesque setting. The area surrounding Porto Pim is diverse in its appeal, with opportunities for exploration and engaging with local history and culture. Faial itself is small enough to explore by car in about 30 minutes, offering a chance to experience the island's natural and cultural diversity beyond the immediate beach area.

The geological formations surrounding the bay, primarily related to past volcanic eruptions, offer a remarkable perspective on Faial Island's origins. It's clear that the landscape's development is intrinsically tied to powerful geological events that shaped the surrounding terrain, the ocean currents, and likely, the unique underwater biodiversity within the bay. Additionally, the relative stability of the bay's waters, due to its shape, is intriguing from an engineering perspective. Understanding how the landforms affect the local hydrology is important. While it seems quite placid to the casual visitor, it's likely that the underwater topography plays a significant role in influencing the wave patterns and the nutrient flow.

It's clear that the bay's attractiveness is multi-faceted, combining natural beauty with accessibility and interesting facets of history and culture. It represents the Azores' ability to attract tourists with a blend of diverse activities. However, as tourism grows, the careful management of the natural environment will be vital to prevent issues related to erosion or the potential for a negative impact on the delicate local ecosystems. Further research into the long-term effects of tourism and efforts to protect the unique local habitats would provide a valuable insight for the preservation of this lovely coastal gem.

Discover the 7 Most Scenic Beaches in the Azores From Black Sands to Natural Pools - Praia dos Moinhos São Miguel's Dramatic Cliffside Cove

Nestled on São Miguel's northern coastline, Praia dos Moinhos presents a captivating scene—a beach tucked within a dramatic cliffside cove. Its dark, volcanic sands, a legacy of the island's volcanic origins, contribute to the beach's unique visual character. This beach is a magnet for surfers who relish the challenge of its often-rough sea conditions and sizable waves. Many consider it one of the island's premier surfing spots, a haven for those seeking a thrilling ride. Despite its rugged beauty, Praia dos Moinhos provides visitors with basic facilities and amenities, making it a relatively convenient destination for beachgoers. Beyond the shore itself, the region offers excellent opportunities for hiking and soaking in the surrounding landscapes, providing a well-rounded experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The surrounding greenery softens the stark contrast of the dark sand and imposing cliffs, adding another layer of visual appeal to this remarkable natural setting.

Praia dos Moinhos, nestled on the northern coast of São Miguel, is a captivating beach characterized by its dramatic cliffside setting. The cliffs, sculpted by ages of volcanic activity and erosion, stand as a testament to the island's dynamic geological history. This volcanic heritage is still evident in the ongoing tectonic activity that continues to shape the landscape today.

The cove itself forms a natural pool, a unique feature created by the constant interaction of ocean waves and currents with the cliffs. This natural formation not only provides a somewhat sheltered swimming area but also creates a refuge for a diverse range of marine life. The area is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers who find fascination in the underwater ecosystem and its volcanic topography.

Occasionally, the cove's waters are warmed by nearby thermal springs. These springs are a common feature across the Azores, a reminder of the lingering influence of the island's volcanic origins. The interplay of volcanic systems with underground water sources leads to these surprising, sporadic warm water pockets.

Reaching Praia dos Moinhos requires traversing narrow trails, which can be somewhat challenging for some. However, this slightly more demanding access acts as a natural deterrent to overcrowding, leaving the beach with a tranquil ambiance. The relative peace and solitude provide a more intimate connection to nature for those willing to venture to this hidden gem.

The black sands that characterize Praia dos Moinhos, a result of the island’s volcanic activity, are rich in minerals. This mineral content leads to rapid heat absorption, causing a noticeable temperature increase on the beach surface. While this unique feature makes the beach warmer compared to traditional white sand beaches, it offers an unusual and potentially desirable experience for sunbathers.

The sheltered location of the cove often leads to a milder microclimate, shielding the area from harsher weather. This climate helps make the beach pleasant even outside peak seasons, attracting visitors year-round.

The beach's environment is favorable to a variety of marine species, including fish and shellfish. The surrounding geological features contribute to creating a complex array of habitats, supporting a thriving underwater world.

The surrounding cliffs, with their captivating contrast to the beach, make this a prime location for divers and snorkelers. The underwater scenery is a fascinating look at the results of millions of years of volcanic activity.


Archaeological findings suggest a rich history of human settlement within the region, adding another dimension to this beach's allure. The historical context provides visitors a glimpse into the island's past and the traces of cultures that previously called this area home.


The lack of light pollution in the Praia dos Moinhos region provides an excellent environment for stargazing. This feature makes it particularly attractive to astronomy enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil and dark nighttime experience to enjoy the vastness of the night sky.