The Portuguese islands similar to Hawaii but with no jet lag & 44 Blue Flag beaches
IF you’re dreaming of Hawaii but can’t justify the cost, then an island closer to the UK is said to share a number of similarities.
The Azores in the Atlantic Ocean are often likened to the islands, just without the long flight and price tag.
Why the Azores?
The Azores are an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, with tourists flocking to visit the islands for it’s outdoor activities and pretty beaches.
They are also a prime location for stargazing, thanks to the clear skies, minimal light pollution, and unique positioning in the Atlantic.
The Portuguese-owned islands are also surprisingly easy for Brits to reach, taking five to six hours from the UK to the five international airports on São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, Santa Maria and Pico.
São Miguel is the largest island and offers weekly direct flights from major airports in the UK.
What is it like in the Azores?
The beaches in the Azores are among the island’s most popular hotspots despite not being a tropical destination.
The region boasts 44 Blue Flag beaches, and the most popular one is São Lourenço Bay on Santa Maria, the southernmost of the Azores.
The islands are also known for sailing, scuba diving, and surfing opportunities, as well as hot springs and whale watching.
São Miguel is the biggest island and is home to hot springs, lakes, and the Sete Cidades, a natural wonder twin lake known as one of the ‘7 Wonders of Portugal’.
The island of Pico is well known for its wine, with plenty of vineyard tours and tastings.
When is the best time to visit the Azores?
The year-round warm temperatures of the Azores make them an ideal holiday spot whatever the season.
Summer temperatures reach up to 24C, while winter temperatures are milder, hitting highs of 16C.
What are the best deals to visit the Azores?
Plenty of deals are available next year if you’re ready to explore the Azores.
The holiday packages include flights; however, most will have a layover, and the average journey takes around six hours.
British Airways is the only company that flies direct to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island.
Here are some of the best deals we’ve spotted in 2024:
- 7 nights b&b at Matriz Hotel in Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal – from £472pp
- 7 nights room-only at Neat Hotel Avenida in Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal – from £481pp
- 7 nights b&b at Hotel do Mar in Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal – from £484pp
- 7 nights room-only at Caloura Hotel Resort in Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal – from £491pp
There aren’t many all-inclusive options on the islands, but there are a few full-board stays up for grabs:
- 7 nights full-board at Hotel Ponta Delgada in Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal – from £718pp
- 7 nights full-board at Açorsonho Apartamentos Turísticos in Capelas, Azores, Portugal – from £833pp
- 7 nights full-board at Hotel Vale do Navio in Capelas, Azores, Portugal – from £1,017pp
What else should I know about the Azores?
Brits can travel to the Azores without needing a visa and can stay there for up to 90 days.
However, the UK government says you might have to show your return ticket and prove that you have enough money for your stay at the Portuguese border.
Additionally, your passport must be issued less than ten years before your entry date and valid for at least three months after you return home.
The Azores are one hour ahead of the UK, and the official language is Portuguese, but English is commonly spoken across the islands.
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