The Azores with Kids

The Azores are a fantastic family adventure: whales and dolphins, warm volcanic pools, crater lakes, easy walks and stew cooked in the ground. They’re safe, relaxed and green. Here’s how to plan a family trip to the Azores.

Quick answer: base yourselves on São Miguel, the easiest island with families. Highlights for kids include whale and dolphin watching (choose a catamaran for comfort), soaking in the warm pools at Furnas, the Sete Cidades crater lakes, short walks to waterfalls, and the tea plantations. Rent a car and plan flexible days around the weather.

Things to do with kids

• Whale and dolphin watching: unforgettable for children. Check minimum ages, and choose a larger boat for younger kids. See whale watching in the Azores.
• Hot springs: Terra Nostra and Poça da Dona Beija in Furnas. See Furnas.
• Cozido: watch the stew pots being lifted from the hot ground.
• Crater lakes: viewpoints at Sete Cidades and kayaking on the lake. See Sete Cidades.
• Easy walks to waterfalls and lakes.
• Beaches and natural pools in summer.
• Tea plantations on the north coast.

Practical tips

• Car seats: book them with your rental car. See getting around the Azores.
• Weather: bring layers and rain jackets, and have indoor back-up plans.
• Swimwear: iron-rich hot spring water stains, so pack old, dark swimsuits.
• When to go: summer for the warmest weather. See the best time to visit the Azores.

More: the São Miguel itinerary, São Miguel hotels and Portugal with kids.

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