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Best places to dive in the Azores + eco-friendly stays

Suspended in the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America, the Azores is an enchanting collection of nine volcanic islands administered by Portugal. Each is blessed with an abundance of natural attractions, from the sparkling crater lakes of Sao Miguel to the dramatic cliffs of Flores and the iconic peak of Pico. 


Underwater, the Azores provides divers with an equally mesmerising realm to explore, where the nutrient-rich waters of the Gulf Stream support a thriving and diverse marine ecosystem. From swim-throughs and caves carved by ancient lava flows to World War II shipwrecks, the Azores offers diving experiences that are second to none. 


The archipelago’s strategic location in the Atlantic also makes it a prime destination for whale watching, with resident sperm whales joined by migratory blue, fin and humpback whales on their annual migration. Its reputation as an up-and-coming shark diving hotspot is also well-deserved, offering the chance to encounter elusive blue and mako sharks, as well as manta rays and the occasional whale shark. 


With two UNESCO World Heritage sites and three UNESCO Biosphere Reserves dotting the islands, the Azores have rightfully earned their place as one of the world's most ecologically significant destinations. This is supported by an impressive choice of eco-friendly hotels, resorts and guesthouses that are prioritising environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. 


In this article, we’ll highlight all of the best places to dive in the Azores, focusing on each of the island groups. To help you plan a sustainable scuba vacation in the archipelago, we’ll also share our top picks for eco-friendly accommodation in the Azores, all of which are within easy reach of dive operators. 


A green-tinged lake in the Azores - one of the best places to dive in Europe

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Best places to dive in the Azores


The Azores is an archipelago of nine major islands and an islet cluster, divided into three distinct geographic groups.


To the far west lies the isolated duo of Flores and Corvo, the two most remote islands in the chain. Flores, the larger of the two, is known for its emerald landscapes dotted with countless lakes and lagoons, while the tiny island of Corvo is the smallest and most sparsely populated, with a unique volcanic crater.


Situated in the central region are the five islands of Graciosa, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico and Faial, each with their own distinct character. Graciosa features rolling pastoral hills while Terceira is known for its historic towns and São Jorge is ringed by dramatic sea cliffs. A towering volcanic peak dominates Pico Island and Faial is home to the vibrant port city of Horta.


Finally, to the east lie the two largest Azorean islands, São Miguel and Santa Maria, as well as the tiny Formigas islet cluster, a protected nature reserve inhabited by seabirds. São Miguel, the archipelago's most populous island, is famed for its emerald green calderas, steaming fumaroles and pristine crater lakes while Santa Maria offers a more arid, sun-drenched landscape.


Best places to dive in the Azores Islands

Flowers bloom beside a crater lake on Sao Miguel - one of the best places to dive in the Azores

São Miguel


The largest of the Azores islands, São Miguel, is the entry point for most visitors to the Azores and offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions to explore. It's home to the photogenic twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades and the atmospheric city of Ponta Delgada with its centuries-old forts and churches.


The underwater landscapes around São Miguel have been sculpted over millennia by intense geothermal forces, giving rise to cavernous grottos, tubular lava formations and plunging canyons. Most of the dive sites are clustered along the island's south coast, with the town of Vila Franca do Campo serving as a gateway. The Lourenços and Sabrina Reefs are particularly prized for their potential to attract schools of mobula rays when the ocean currents are just right.


If you're based in Ponta Delgada, you can dive with Best Spot Azores, Season Challenge or Azores Diving. Dive centres in Vila Franca do Campo include Espirito Azul and Azores Sub.


Best dive sites around São Miguel, Azores


Ponta da Cozinha

Located just five minutes by boat from Vila Franca do Campo, this easy dive features big boulders and canyons where you can spot barracudas, octopuses and moray eels. 


Amora 

Located between Ponta Garça and Ribeira Quente, this sandy bottom dive site is known for its ornate wrasses, horse mackerel and Madeira rockfishes.


Baixa das Castanhetas 

Featuring a complex network of interlinked caverns, tunnels and gorges, this multi-level dive site has options for all experience levels, including a vertical drop-off where mobula rays are often spotted. 


MV Dori

Sunk in 1964, this World War II Liberty ship participated in Operation Overlord on the Normandy coast and now lies between 9 and 20 metres off the coast of Ponta Delgada.


Arcos de Caloura 

This shallow dive site is notable for its cave where you can spot schools of white trevallies, dusky groupers and a huge diversity of nudibranch species.


Eco-friendly hotels in Ponta Delgada



Encompassing a collection of luxuriously appointed apartments and villas, this eco-friendly Azores hotel is located on the eastern outskirts of Ponta Delgada. On the rooftop, there’s a heated pool and a jacuzzi offering wonderful views of the nearby beach while the included breakfast includes lots of locally sourced products. 


"Truly exceeded our expectations.” - Moore (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels in Ponta Delgada, Azores

A light and bright apartment at an eco-friendly hotel in the Azores

One of the light and bright apartments at Aqua - Populo Eco Village in Ponta Delgada (photo courtesy of Expedia)



Occupying a traditional Portuguese residence built in the 1880s, this eco-friendly Azores hotel is located just a short drive from Ponta Delgada. It features eight luxury suites and cottages that have been stylishly appointed and prides itself in operating in the most sustainable manner possible. 


"Nestled in the beautiful Azorean landscape, this eco-friendly retreat blends luxury with sustainability perfectly.” - Jantjis (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels in Ponta Delgada, Azores

A sun-dappled terrace at eco-friendly hotel in Ponta Delgada

A sun-dappled terrace at Solar Branco Eco Estate in Ponta Delgada (photo courtesy of Expedia)


Eco-friendly hotel in Vila Franca do Campo



On the western edge of Vila Franca do Campo, this eco-friendly Azores hotel offers direct access to a gorgeous beach. In addition to its spacious suites catering to couples, dive buddies and families, there’s a swimming pool, two tennis courts and a restaurant serving Azorean cuisine. 


"Excellent hotel and great base to explore the Azores.” - Corne (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels on São Miguel, Azores

An oceanfront pool at an eco-friendly hotel on Sao Miguel Island, Azores

An elevated view of the oceanfront pool at Pestana Bahia Praia Nature & Beach Resort in the Azores Islands (photo courtesy of Expedia)


Santa Maria


Notable for its white sandy beaches and unique chimneys, Santa Maria is the southernmost island in the Azores. It’s also the oldest island in the archipelago with a climate that is generally hotter and drier. 


As a dive destination, Santa Maria is renowned for the Formigas Islets and Dollabarat Seamount, which are particularly popular with experienced divers. In the summer months, sightings of whale sharks are a highlight. 


In Santa Maria, you can dive with Haliotis or Mantamaria.


Best dive sites around Santa Maria, Azores


Pedrinha Reef

This beloved marine reserve features a platform, caves and a fissure that ascends to the reef's summit. It's suitable for both novice and seasoned divers, offering sightings of everything from dusky groupers to devil rays.


Baixa do Ambrósio

One of the most popular dive sites in the Azores, this marine protected area is home to an incredible diversity of life. It ranges in depth from 10 to 50 metres, with large round stingrays often spotted on the seafloor. Huge groups of devil rays are also common.


Formigas Islets and Dollabarat Seamount

These two offshore dives are renowned for their exceptional visibility and large schools of fish are often present, alongside manta rays and sharks. 


Baixa da Penedia

A highlight of this rocky bottomed dive site its its cave, which is peppered with barnacles and black coral. Among the marine species regularly spotted are peacock wrasse, moray eels and octopuses. 


Ambrosio

An hour’s boat ride from Vila do Porto, this incredible dive site is renowned for its huge schools of jacks and barracudas. Devil rays are also frequent visitors to the area. 


Eco-friendly hotels on Santa Maria, Azores



Located adjacent to the Figueiral-Prainha Nature Reserve, this three-bedroom holiday rental has won multiple awards for its sustainability credentials. It offers direct access to Praia Formosa and several nature trails, all just a short drive from Vila do Porto.


"If you are going to rest, enjoy nature and, above all, disconnect completely from routine, Villa Natura exceeds any expectation.” - Andre (read more reviews here)




This one-bedroom casita oozes charm and has been sustainably built in harmony with the natural surroundings. It is designed in a typical Santa Maria style, with a long chimney and mansard roof, and offers spectacular views across the island from its hilltop setting. There's an equally gorgeous two-bedroom villa on the property for families and groups. 


"It was outstandingly gorgeous and the surroundings were breathtaking.” - Bonnie (read more reviews here)



Best places to dive in the Azores Islands

Terraced fields descend to the ocean on Pico Island in the Azores

Pico and Faial


Separated from each other by a six-kilometre-long channel, Pico and Faial are located in the centre of the Azores archipelago. Together with São Jorge, they are collectively known as the “Triângulo”. While Pico is renowned for its towering volcano, Faial is notable for its flowering blue hydrangeas, earning it the nickname “Ilha Azul”.


The underwater landscapes around the islands are nothing short of spectacular and diving includes memorable interactions with large groups of manta rays, jackfish and tunas. Whales also pass through the area and the shark encounters here are second to none, with the Condor Seamount particularly notable for the presence of blue sharks.


Diving on Pico Island can be done with Twin Peaks Diving Centre while Haliotis has a dive centre of Faial.


Best dive sites around Pico and Faial, Azores


Princess Alice Bank

One of the most famous dive sites in the Azores, this deep offshore bank (between 30 and 40 metres) is usually visited as a day trip (dolphins are sometimes spotted on the ride there and back). Divers flock here to see dozens of mobula rays, alongside tunas, amberjacks and Galapagos sharks.


Shrimp Cave

This impressive cave is filled with Narwhal shrimps, a rose-orange crustacean with longitudinal red and white stripes. At between 28 and 35 metres, it’s only suitable for experienced divers who are certified in cave diving. 


Arcos do Pocinho 

Located near Pocinho (on the west coast of Pico Island), this relatively shallow dive site encompasses a lava flow populated by nudibranchs. Schools of barracudas and jacks are also regularly spotted. 


Condor Seamount

Located 16 kilometres from the island of Faial, this seamount is one of the best places to dive with large pelagics in the Azores. With its swirling currents and abundance of nutrients, it draws large numbers of blue sharks and shortfin mako sharks. Sperm and sei whales also pass through the area. 


Baía de Entre Montes

Located just five minutes by boat from Horta, this relatively shallow dive site is populated by moray eels and hermit crabs. A wide variety of nudibranchs cling to the rocky outcrops while flounders can often be seen on the sandy seafloor. 


Eco-friendly places to stay on Pico and Faial, Azores



Offering magnificent views across the ocean, this eco-friendly Pico Island hotel consists of comfortable studios, apartments and villas. When you’re not out diving, you can relax beside the swimming pool overlooking Faial Island and the towering peak of Mount Pico. Alma do Pico has been recognised as a sustainable property by Miosotis Azores


"Our stay was amazing! The location of Alma do Pico is great. Just outside of Madalena and super central for all activities on Pico.” - Danique (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels on Pico Island

Inside a glamping tent at an eco-friendly hotel on Pico Island, Azores

Inside one of the sophisticated glamping tents at Azul Singular on Pico Island (photo courtesy of Expedia)



Not far from Horta, this eco-friendly Pico Island accommodation was the first glamping property to be established in the Azores. All of its tents and yurts are luxuriously appointed with wood and textiles throughout. They can accommodate couples, dive buddies and families. 


"Beautiful cozy yurt in a prime location on Faial.” - Gabrielle (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels on Faial Island, Azores

The exterior of a stone and wood ecolodge on Faial Island, Azores

Steps lead up to one of the stone and wood buildings of the Patio Ecolodge on Faial Island, Azores (photo courtesy of Expedia)



Designed to reflect the owner’s passion for the outdoor lifestyle, this Faial ecolodge consists of rooms and apartments with self-catering facilities. From the property, you can easily walk to spectacular cliffs and natural rock pools, as well as go trail riding, warm up in the sauna or enjoy the heated saltwater pool


"Beautiful location, great breakfast, pool and sauna included and very welcoming atmosphere.” - Marian (read more reviews here)



Best places to dive in the Azores Islands

The UNESCO-listed city of Angra do Heroismo in the Azores

Terceira


Located in the middle of the Azores archipelago, Terceira combines magnificent coastal landscapes and volcanic terrain with the architectural beauty of Angra do Heroismo. Founded in 1534, this history city is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with impressive forts, palaces and churches to discover. 


A highlight of scuba diving in Terceira is exploring the Underwater Archaeological Park in Angra’s bay, where the Lidador met its end in 1878. The rock formations surrounding the island also provide habitat for a diversity of marine life and it boasts one of the most interesting cave dives in the Azores at Cinco Ribeiras. 


Best dive sites around Terceira, Azores


Cinco Ribeiras

This sheltered dive site is ideal for all experience levels, with a rocky wall and swim-through to explore. Schools of salema porgies and narwhal shrimp can often be spotted, together with common stingrays. More experienced divers can access the site’s cave systems. 


Coral Valley 

Located 10 minutes by boat from Praia da Vitoria on the east coast of Terceira, this underwater valley is blanketed in white, red and brown soft corals. Barracudas, baitfish and scorpionfish can all be spotted, together with passing eagle rays. 


Bat Ray Cave

Schools of bat rays are the highlight of this relatively shallow dive, which takes in a small cave on Ilhéu das Cabras. This rocky island provides a sanctuary for shearwaters, terns and sandpipers.


Underwater Archaeological Park 

Located in the bay of Angra do Heroísmo, this dive explores the wreck of the Lidador, an iron-hulled steamer that was sunk here in 1878. Now resting on its side, it is populated by an abundance of small reef fish and other marine species. In the Cemetery of Anchors, you can see more than 40 anchors dating from the 16th to the 20th centuries.


Dom João de Castro Bank

While it’s more than two hours by boat from the harbour of Praia da Vitória, this underwater volcano is well worth the trip. It boasts some of the best visibility in the Azores and is home to a variety of pelagic creatures that include schools of tuna wahoos and mobula rays. 


Eco-friendly hotels on Terceira, Azores



Surrounded by woodlands on the outskirts of Biscoitos (on the north coast of Terceira), this eco-friendly Azores lodge comprises several cabins designed for couples and dive groups alike. A delicious breakfast is included in stays and the property prides itself on upholding sustainable and responsible tourism practices to reduce its environmental impact. 


"Beautiful getaway in the woods! This is a place to rest and reflect.”- Marie (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels Terceira, Azores

An elevated wooden cabin at an ecolodge on Terceira Island, Azores

One of the elevated wooden cabins at the Caparica Azores Ecolodge (photo courtesy of Expedia)



Overlooking the water in Angra do Heroismo, this resort-style hotel features ocean-facing rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub. It forms part of the Bensaude Hotels Collection, which has obtained a certification in sustainable tourism from Travelife GOLD. Regional products are showcased at Monte Brasil Restaurant with its floor-to-ceiling windows. 


“Relaxing and rejuvenating.” - Laura (read more reviews here)



Eco-friendly hotels Angra do Heroismo, Terceira

A spacious suite at an eco-friendly hotel in Angra do Heroismo, Azores

One of the spacious suites at Terceira Mar Hotel in Angrao do Heroismo (photo courtesy of Expedia)


Flores and Corvo


While Corvo is the smallest and northernmost island of the Azores, Flores is its breathtaking big sister, famed for its enchanting lakes and waterfalls, natural pools and magnificent coastline. Together, they comprise the Grupo Ocidental and sit out alone in the far west of the archipelago. 


Due to their relative isolation, the marine life here has been allowed to thrive, making it well worth the adventure. Corvo was the first island in the Azores to set up a voluntary marine reserve around Caneiro dos Meros (renowned for its dusky groupers) while Flores' rugged coastline is home to everything from sheltered bays to large caves and caverns.


Diving around Flores and Corvo can be done with Longitude 31.


Best places to dive in the Azores Islands

A waterfall plunges down a cliff face in the Azores Islands

Best dive sites around Flores and Corvo


Dusky Grouper Passageway

Also known as Caneiro dos Meros, this dive site off the coast of Corvo is notable for its abundance of dusky groupers, some of which weigh in at over 30 kilograms. It lies between 18 and 25 metres in depth, with the lava flows descending to a seafloor at around 40 metres. 


Gamela

Not far from the Caneiro dos Mersos is this shallow platform dive that attracts some of the abundant marine life populating the nearby reserve. Aside from visiting its two small caves, you can get up close to schools of blue jack mackerels, yellowmouth barracudas and Azores chromis. 


Gruta do Galo

Translating as “Rooster Cave”, this cavern site is marked by a waterfall that cascades near its entrance. In addition to sightings of schools of white trevallies near the entrances, common stingrays are often spotted on the sandy seafloor.


Baixa do Buraco

Five minutes by boat from Vila do Corvo is this easily accessible reef, which lies between 7 and 25 metres. Large schools of blue jack mackerels and yellowmouth barracudas are regularly spotted, with the water often exceptionally clear.


Baixa do Amigo

Between 15 and 40 metres in depth is this impressive reef, which is located off the east coast of Flores (around 15 minutes by boat from Santa Cruz). It’s a wonderful site for spotting pelagic species, such as yellowmouth barracudas, Almaco jacks and white trevallies.


Eco-friendly hotels on Flores and Corvo, Azores



Offering magnificent views from its hilltop setting, this two-bedroom holiday rental on Flores is located in Santa Cruz. It features a fully-equipped kitchen, an alfresco dining area and a hot tub. Couples can opt for the Casa do Corvo - a one-bedroom rental on the same property. 


"Definitely the best house you could book on Flores Island! The views are amazing.” - Katarina (read more reviews here)




This cosy residence offers everything couples need, with a double bedroom, a private bathroom and a fully-equipped kitchen. The washing machine and dryer are an added convenience while the coastal views are a treat.


"Beautiful house on a hill with nice garden and ocean views." - Jetteke (read more reviews here)



Best places to dive in the Azores Islands

A volcanic crater located off the coast of one of the Azores' main islands

Best time to dive in the Azores


For the calmest and warmest water conditions, the best time to dive in the Azores is between June and September. During these peak summer months, the ocean temperatures in the Azores typically reach a maximum of 23°C (73°F). However, as summer transitions into autumn, the water temperatures begin to drop, with September often ushering in some of the best visibility of the year. 


The whale watching season extends from April to October, with blue and fin whales most commonly spotted early in the season. Humpback whales, on the other hand, are more abundant in the waters around Azores in October.


The air temperatures in the Azores also vary significantly throughout the year, mirroring the fluctuations of the surrounding ocean. In the winter months, the air can be quite chilly, with temperatures dipping down to around 14°C (57°F). In contrast, during the height of summer, the thermometer can climb as high as 25°C (77°F). 


Visibility in the Azores ranges from as little as 5 metres (15 feet) up to 40 metres (120 feet), largely due to the region's numerous upwellings and thermoclines. However, the offshore dive sites, which plunge to depths exceeding 2,000 metres (7,000 feet), consistently offer excellent visibility of around 35 metres (105 feet). 


FAQs about diving in the Azores


Is the Azores good for scuba diving?


The Azores is arguably one of the best places to dive in Europe, with its thriving marine ecosystem nourished by the nutrient-rich waters of the Gulf Stream. Scuba enthusiasts can explore everything from swim-throughs and caves formed by ancient lava flows to fascinating World War II shipwrecks. 


Additionally, the archipelago's prime location in the Atlantic makes it an excellent spot for whale watching. Here, you can see resident sperm whales alongside migratory blue, fin and humpback whales. The Azores has also established a reputation as a shark diving destination, providing opportunities to encounter blue and mako sharks, along with manta rays and whale sharks.


When to go diving in the Azores?


The best time for scuba diving in the Azores archipelago is from June to September, when the waters are at their calmest and warmest. During these summer months, ocean temperatures can peak at around 23°C (73°F). As summer gives way to autumn, the water starts to cool down, and September often brings some of the clearest visibility of the entire year.


When is whale watching season in the Azores?


The whale watching season in the Azores extends from April through October, though the specific species you're likely to encounter can vary depending on the time of year. In the spring, from April through June, the Azores serve as a migratory corridor for several species of baleen whales, including blue whales, fin whales and sei whales. 


As summer arrives, the Azores becomes a hub of activity for a variety of migratory dolphin species, such as the Atlantic spotted dolphin, the striped dolphin and the pilot whale. This is also the best time of year to catch a glimpse of sperm whales, which are more abundant in the Azores' waters during the summer months. 


As autumn sets in, whale watchers are treated to the arrival of humpback whales, which can be reliably spotted in the Azores in October. 


Are there whale sharks in the Azores?


Whale sharks arrive in the Azores during peak plankton blooms and are most reliably spotted from July to October. While they can be seen during coastal dives (most commonly around Pico and Santa Maria), you have a better chance of sighting them at offshore sites in pursuit of bait fish. 


Do you need a wetsuit for diving in the Azores?


If you’re scuba diving in the Azores in late summer (August and September), you may be comfortable in a 5mm wetsuit. Otherwise, most dive operators suggest you wear a 7mm wetsuit or a semi-dry suit to ensure you have enough thermal protection underwater.



 

About the authors


We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we've created this resource highlighting sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.


Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.  


Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans. 


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