The best time to visit the Azores is between June and October, due to temperatures and availability of activities.
During this period, the archipelago captivates with optimal weather conditions and pleasant temperatures that are ideal for both hiking and beach or active holidays.
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What is the Best Time to Visit the Azores, Portugal?
The best time to visit the Azores, Portugal, is in summer, from June to October, when the climate is more stable.
The Azores are distinguished by a subtropical oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and pleasant, warm summers. However, precipitation on the Atlantic islands is quite frequent, especially in autumn and winter.
The high season, from June to August, is especially conducive to relaxation and enjoyment, with warm weather and more hours of sunshine per day.
It is also the ideal time to visit the Azores for a beach holiday, as the Gulf Stream guarantees water temperatures of up to 24°C.
For those who wish to travel after the high season, the months of September and October are particularly favorable for sailing, hiking and exploring this dream archipelago.
Best Season of the Year to Visit Azores
The Gulf Stream has a considerable influence on the climate of the Azores. And although the year is divided into four seasons, spring, summer, autumn and winter, in the Azores the most important thing is the differences between the driest and rainiest months. Here is a table that will help you visualize it perfectly:
| Month | Max (°C) | Min (°C) | Rain Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 17 | 11 | 10 |
| Feb | 18 | 11 | 8 |
| Mar | 19 | 12 | 8 |
| Abr | 21 | 13 | 7 |
| May | 23 | 15 | 5 |
| Jun | 25 | 18 | 2 |
| Jul | 28 | 19 | 1 |
| Aug | 28 | 20 | 1 |
| Sep | 26 | 19 | 4 |
| Oct | 24 | 17 | 8 |
| Nov | 20 | 14 | 9 |
| Dec | 18 | 12 | 10 |
Although the subtropical climate of the archipelago has mild temperatures of between 18 °C – 25 °C throughout the year, rainfall is sometimes intense, especially in autumn and winter, between October and April. So visiting during the rainy season can ruin our plans.
In any case, having a very mild and pleasant climate, Azores is a destination that can be visited all year round.
Visit Azores in Summer
The high season in the Azores runs from June to August. We recommend visiting the Azores in summer for the following reasons:
- The climate is stable in the archipelago , allowing you to enjoy its unique nature with summer temperatures, long hours of sunshine and relatively little rain.
- Additionally, you can bathe in the sea or hot springs during this period, but not too hot for long walks.
- You can also take advantage of your stay to closely observe the whales that pass near the archipelago.
- The flowering of hydrangeas begins at the end of June in the archipelago, allowing outdoor lovers to enjoy the spectacular nature of the Azores in all its splendor.
Cons of visiting Azores in Summer:
- Tourist influx: There will be more tourists, which can result in places with a greater number of visitors.
- High costs: During high season, prices for accommodations, car rentals and activities tend to be higher.
Mid season in the Azores
In the Azores, the mid season begins just after August and extends until October, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning nature of the archipelago without the tourist crowds. The temperatures are still pleasant and the weather is ideal for an active vacation, it is normal for it to rain during some of the days.
Pros of visiting Azores in mid season:
- Nature without crowds: Fewer tourists allow you to enjoy the impressive nature of the archipelago without the typical crowds of the high season.
- Ideal weather conditions: Although it may rain on some days, temperatures are still pleasant and the weather is conducive to active holidays, such as hiking and boating.
- Whale Watching Opportunity: The mid season offers the opportunity to watch whales off the archipelago, providing unique marine life viewing experiences.
- Reduced costs: rentals and flight prices are considerably reduced, so this may be your best option if you want to save a few euros on your trip.
Cons of visiting Azores in mid season:
- Chance of Rain: There is a chance of rain for a few days, which may impact outdoor activities and the overall travel experience.
- Slightly colder weather: perhaps at this time you don’t feel like swimming in the sea so much or doing similar outdoor activities.
However, even during the mid season, you have the opportunity to whale watch, hike, or snorkel.
Low season in the Azores
Pros of visiting Azores in low season:
- Tranquility: The archipelago becomes quieter, offering a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
- Ideal for nature lovers and photographers: The low season is perfect for those who appreciate nature and want to capture the beauty of the landscape, as the green and fascinating flora of the Azores stands out in this period.
- Peaceful Environment: Despite the regular rains, those who are not put off by the weather can enjoy the peace and serenity of nature.
Cons of visiting Azores in low season:
- Frequent Rainfall: Rainfall is more frequent during the off-season, which can impact outdoor activities and exploration.
- Strong winds and storms in winter: During the winter, the archipelago experiences strong winds and storms, which can make exploration difficult and limit some activities.
Diving and snorkeling
The best time to dive in the Azores is in the high or shoulder season, from June to October. During these months, the water temperature is especially pleasant for snorkeling.
In addition, rainfall is scarce and the typical winter winds are absent. However, due to the changeable weather in the archipelago, calm seas are not guaranteed at this time of year.
Surf
Do you want to take advantage of your stay in the Azores to surf or windsurf? The period from May to October is ideal, as mild temperatures and moderate winds offer optimal conditions.
However, experienced athletes will appreciate the strong winds and fantastic waves off the Azores during the winter months.
Whale watching
In the Azores, whale watching is possible mainly from May to October. Depending on the season and the island, you can observe up to 38 different species of dolphins and whales up close, such as orcas, humpback whales, sperm whales, blue whales or fin whales.
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