Nestled between vibrant urban living and untouched natural beauty, Lagoa strikes a harmonious balance unlike anywhere else. Just beyond the town limits lie secret trails adorned with cascading waterfalls, serene natural pools, and pristine beaches waiting to be discovered.
Delve deeper, and uncover a tapestry of culture and history through captivating museums and rich traditional events. Explore Lagoa, where every corner promises a new adventure in the perfect blend of nature and urban allure.
What is Lagoa?
Lagoa, a coastal city with a population of 14,416, is the smallest and youngest city on the island, with a history that spans 500 years. The settlement of this municipality has played a vital role in the prosperity of its people.
During the golden age of oranges, Lagoa was a major exporter of this crop, and in the industrial era, the town became an icon of industrialization on the island of São Miguel.
Today, as we enter the 21st century, Lagoa is committed to embracing the new era of communication and technology, and it continues to be a reference in this field in the midst of the 2020s.
Geology & Volcanology
The volcanic origins of the islands can truly be seen in the natural pools of Rosário, Lagoa. The black lava surrounding the blue ocean creates a beautiful contrast in the landscape. It is a place of choice for many locals to spend some time with the sound of the waves around.
History & Geography
Lagoa is a county filled with history. After the discovery of São Miguel, settlers populated Lagoa around Santa Cruz church. Back then, there was a lake, the reason for the name Lagoa. The current Porto dos Carneiros was an important harbor where the first livestock arrived, and agricultural goods were exported.
The main sources of wealth were the ceramic and alcohol factories. In the 20th century, vegetable oil, soap, and animal food also became great sources of income. Today, agriculture still plays a big part in the local economy as well as the services sector, namely related to tourism.
Culture & Festivities
Bonecreiros Route
The main objective of the Nativity Scene Art Route is to increase the visibility of the artists who continue to create these beautiful pieces of art in Lagoa.
These nativity scene figurine makers have been immortalizing religious and secular traditions of regional nature in clay, giving continuity to a form of folk art that dates back to the 19th century, with the opening of the first pottery factories in Lagoa.
By following this route, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the unique and time-honoured art of these skilled craftsmen firsthand.
The route provides information about the artists, including their locations and contact information, and it allows visitors to schedule visits and purchase exclusive handmade pieces that have been crafted using a unique process.
The Nativity Scene Art Route provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region, while also supporting the local artists and their traditional crafts.
Festival da Malassada
A unique event around Carnival is the Festival da Malassada in Ribeira Chã. Mingle with locals at this popular fest dedicated to the yummy doughnut-like delicacy.
Not on the regular touristic itineraries is a visit to the Cerâmica Vieira factory, created in 1862. The creation process is fascinating.
What to do at Lagoa
Top Places & Activities at Lagoa
Caloura
The small fishing harbor of Caloura hosts one of the most stunning places to swim on São Miguel’s south coast.
A quiet bay well-known for divers and snorkelers with crystal clear waters, colorful fishes, and even a small pool for kids.
It is equipped with a toilet and a shower, and right next to the bathing area is one of the best fish restaurants on the island.
Casa do Pescador
Casa do Pescador stands as a revolutionary space for fishermen in Caloura, offering workshops, exhibitions, seminars and other opportunities to advance their knowledge.
Moreover, it functions as the bridge between these seafaring individuals and governing bodies that regulate fishing activity. Inside Casa do Pescador lies an array of maritime artifacts joined by photographs depicting years of dedicated work at Porto da Caloura — providing visitors with an extraordinary glimpse into this captivating industry!
The exhibition consists mostly of objects contributed by local fishermen, along with a selection of handcrafted items that pay homage to the sea and its fishers. These can also be purchased from here!
On August 6th, 2003, the Parish Council of Água de Pau proudly opened this Museum to celebrate its rich history and culture.
Cerâmica Vieira Factory
Pottery was first created in the Middle Ages, displaying distinct qualities by way of Arab and Moorish influences brought to light through their invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. Lagoa is home to a rich cultural memory, especially of small red clay potteries, just like those found on the islands of Santa Maria and Vila Franca do Campo.
Long before the inception of the very first glazed tableware factory in 1862, created by Bernardino da Silva at Porto dos Carneiros da Lagoa, Cerâmica Vieira was born from this endeavour. This industrial and artful legacy has persisted for more than five generations now— a remarkable feat! Crafting this renowned pottery is done with a traditional, handmade process.
Decorating and accessorizing each piece allows for the craftspeople to express their creativity in many ways; where blue generally dominates as its leading hue. “LOUÇA DA LAGOA” has become renowned worldwide – all due to its distinctiveness in style, design, and color! Presently, it is the crown jewel of the Municipality.
Ermida de Nossa Senhora do Monte
The Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte was built during the first half of the 20th century, as a private initiative that followed the apparition of the Virgin Mary to two children and the subsequent illness of one of them. The church is situated on the highest point of the village of Agua de Pau, offering a stunning perspective of the village and the beautiful coastal area, where visitors can observe the unique lava formations that surround the village.
Expolab
The Expolab is part of the Ciência Viva network of science centers that aims to promote scientific education in the fields of natural sciences.
Expolab is mainly focused on promoting Earth and Life Sciences, particularly Biology, as well as Chemistry and Physics. In its interactive space, various modules present basic concepts of Mathematics and Physics simply and enjoyably for all ages.
In addition to the exhibitions, the center offers visitors various activities in three laboratories designed for different levels of education, which require advance booking. The laboratory activities are also available for teachers to use, with the support of the Expolab team.
Janela do Inferno: “Hell’s Window” hiking trail
If you love hiking, there is another trail when going down from Lagoa do Fogo to Ponta Delgada called Janela do Inferno (Hell’s Window). Despite the cold name, it is a beautiful circular hike with a gorgeous waterfall at the end. You will pass by tunnels, farmlands, a forest, and pipes that are used to transport water. It takes about 2h30 to complete the 7.6 km hike.
Museu de Lagoa
The Museum of Lagoa is a municipal museum located in the former Franciscan convent of Santo António. It has multiple sites across five parishes, with public and private partner entities under its purview. As such, this vibrant cultural institution offers plenty for visitors to explore and experience!
The Municipality has initiated a new policy of educational and cultural enrichment in the various spaces they manage, championing it as places where individuals can partake in non-formal, democratic and inclusive learning. In this manner, knowledge is shared between generations to build up understanding; simultaneously allowing for better connection between municipal institutions and communities.
Museu Etnográfico do Cabouco
The Cabouco Museum Center is housed in a 19th-century rural dwelling that is structured over two floors, with an extension from this century located to the north of the original property.
The first floor is currently being prepared for a long-term exhibition which will showcase the agricultural tools used since the settlement of the area for the transformation of the territory.
The upper floor features several environments that evoke the former trades of “cabouqueiro” (land surveyor), carpenter, shoemaker, and barber, as well as the museumization of the kitchen, a space of great importance in traditional domestic life.
Nossa Senhora do Rosário church
On February 28th 1743 D. Frei Valério do Sacramento unveiled the deterioration of a previous Ermida da Senhora do Rosário church, requiring a new temple to be built in its place — that is now known as Nossa Senhora do Rosary Church.
Father Manuel Raposo da Câmara took over duties as vicar in December 1764 and instantly began to renovate this crown jewel into what we see today! In 1765, the ancient temple was finally destroyed. Construction for the church with three naves started in January 1767 and concluded by April 1772 — giving it its iconic appearance which we all recognize today.
On January 16, 1773, Father Manuel Pacheco Raposo blessed the new church and transferred the Blessed Sacrament there. The construction of the bell tower, however, only took place on June 19, 1782.
Over the years the temple received some equipment that improved the liturgy, such as the pipe organ, considered one of the most remarkable in the Azores islands, and which was classified as movable heritage of public interest in 2020.
Piscinas Naturais da Lagoa
The volcanic origins of the islands can truly be seen in the natural pools of Rosário, Lagoa. The black lava surrounding the blue ocean creates a beautiful contrast in the landscape. It is a place of choice for many locals to spend some time with the sound of the waves around.
This natural pool complex is the meeting place for many islanders and foreigners. Inside, several pools wait for swimmers to discover their underwater secrets. During the low season, the entrance is free of charge. You will also find a snack bar, toilets, and changing rooms.
Praia da Baixa d’Areia
On the nature level, Lagoa has many heavenly beaches to enjoy, such as Praia da Baixa D’Areia in Água de Pau. The thin black sand is just perfect to lie down and have a daily intake of vitamin D.
Quinta da Paródia
Experience the magic of Quinta da Paródia. It’s a place where agriculture and animal farming thrive. They combine with entertaining educational services, creating unforgettable experiences. These experiences are enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike. The farm offers a perfect blend of animals and plants. It includes recreational spaces for a delightful environment for you to create lifelong memories with ease.
It offers enriching rural experiences that connect people with nature. These experiences encourage family and intergenerational bonding, promoting healthy lifestyles. They also foster stronger relationships between agriculture and society, cultivating a greater environmental awareness.
Volcanological and Geothermal Observatory of the Azores
There is no better place to truly understand volcanoes than the Volcanological and Geothermal Observatory of the Azores in Lagoa. Appreciate Mother Nature’s work at this museum, very explanatory about the geological features of the island.
Pro Tips
If you’re ever in Lagoa, two must-visit places are truly unique. The first is the beautiful harbor of Caloura, and the second is the harbor of Lagoa itself. While people primarily use these harbors for fishing, they also offer opportunities to take a dip in the ocean. You can snorkel to see the wonderful marine life that surrounds them.
In addition to the natural beauty, both harbors boast outstanding restaurants with stunning ocean views. These restaurants take full advantage of the fresh seafood caught by fishing boats. They ensure that you’ll enjoy only the best seafood. Chefs guarantee that it is the most delicious seafood available. So, be sure to stop by and savor the flavors of the sea!
Best Season to Visit São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island is in the Eastern Group of the Azores Archipelago. Here, you will notice the atypical characteristics of this climate. These result from many factors contributing to its plant exuberance and landscape value.
The climate is mild regardless of the season, and the average values do not present many changes. Temperatures vary between:
- 16 °C in spring;
- 21 °C in summer;
- 18 °C in autumn;
- 14 °C in winter.
For more info about the weather in the Azores, check the links below:
- The weather in the Azores in January
- The weather in the Azores in February
- The weather in the Azores in March
- The weather in the Azores in April
- The weather in the Azores in May
- The weather in the Azores in July
- The weather in the Azores in August
What to do after visiting Lagoa
Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo
The islet of Vila Franca do Campo is probably the best beach on São Miguel island. It is an old submarine volcano with crystal-clear waters in its crater, where you can swim and snorkel. However, this wonder of nature is only open from June to October for preservation purposes.
If you visit the island outside the high season, you can still visit Vinha da Areia beach in Vila Franca do Campo. The black-sand beach is ideal for relaxing when the sun is shining.
Points of interest in Vila Franca do Campo
- Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Paz
- Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz
- Museu de Vila Franca
- Praia da Amora
- Praia da Vinha da Areia
- Praia de Água D’Alto
- Quatro Fábricas da Luz Hiking Trail
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo is located in the crater of a dormant volcano that formed about 15,000 years ago. It offers exceptional natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. This awe-inspiring turquoise lake is a pure testimony to nature’s pace. Many stories can be told, and yours might start here.
This least humanized and preserved area even has a pumice beach on the lagoon margins, which was awarded the best wild beach in Portugal in the “7 Wonders—Beaches of Portugal Contest”. From the central part of São Miguel island was born the Serra da Água de Pau Volcanic Massif, where Lagoa do Fogo is nested. It is of great value in landscapes and untouched, pure nature.
Located between Ribeira Grande and the city of Lagoa, this volcanic lake looks like a postcard from paradise. The green of the volcanic walls filled with lush vegetation contrasts with the clear blue water of the lake, undoubtedly making it one of the most beautiful places in the Azores. This is one of the main tourist highlights of São Miguel, but there are still some secrets inside to be unveiled in this post. Follow this complete guide of all you need to know about Lagoa do Fogo.
Points of interest in Lagoa do Fogo
Maia
Peacefulness and the smell of the ocean mix in the town of Maia. It is a quiet coastal village on top of an old lava flow with luxuriant nature and a rich culture and history. Maia is far away from tourist crowds and camera flashes. Discover a place locals know how to appreciate.
Points of interest in Maia
- Calhau da Maia
- Fábrica de Chá Gorreana
- Moinhos da Ribeira Funda
- Museu do Tabaco
- Piscinas Naturais da Maia
- Praia da Viola
Ponta Delgada
The Ponta Delgada city is officially one of the best counties in Portugal to live in. The modern city is the biggest and most populated of the Azores. There, the ocean breeze, mountain views and delicious local food are part of everyday life. Despite being an energetic city, there is no rush in Ponta Delgada, nor annoying traffic jams.
In the beginning, Ponta Delgada was only a small fishing village. But quickly, thanks to its safe bays, it became the most important harbor for trades on the island. Ponta Delgada was declared a city in 1546 and considered as the capital of the island. This happened after the first capital – Vila Franca do Campo – was destroyed in 1522 by a terrible earthquake. Nowadays, Ponta Delgada with its almost 70,000 inhabitants is a cosmopolitan city attracting visitors from all over the world.
Points of interest in Ponta Delgada
- Carlos Machado Museum
- Igreja de Todos os Santos, Portas da Cidade
- Forte de São Brás
- Gruta do Carvão
- Jardim José do Canto
- Jardim António Borges
- Mercado da Graça / Farmers Market
- Parque Atlântico
- Pineapple Plantations
- Piscina do “Pesqueiro”
- Portas do Mar
- Praia das Milícias
- Biblioteca Pública e Arquivo Regional
- Rocha da Relva
- Santuário da Esperança
- Sinagoga
Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande, the surf capital, is a beautiful coastal city on the North coast of São Miguel island. It is also the second-biggest city on the island after Ponta Delgada. The city’s treasures include several churches, beautiful squares where locals and tourists meet, a farmers’ market, a river, and an interesting Azorean Emigration Museum.
Points of interest in Ribeira Grande
- Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande
- Moinhos da Ribeira Funda hiking trail
- Pico da Barrosa
- Ponta do Cintrão
- Porto de Santa Iria
- Fábrica de Chá de Porto Formoso
- Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara
- Praia do Monte Verde
- Praia dos Moinhos
- Rabo de Peixe
- Miradouro de Santa Iria
- Salto do Cabrito
- São Brás
Where To Eat Near Lagoa
If you need somewhere to eat near Lagoa, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where To Stay Near Lagoa
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Complementary Information
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores offers live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, letting you check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
How to Get to São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island is easily accessible with numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights to Ponta Delgada available. To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner.
These platforms allow you to compare prices and schedules from different airlines in one place. For more details on how to get to the Azores, look at our guide. Once you find the perfect flight, book it! You’ll reach one of the world’s most beautiful island groups in a few hours.
Best Season to Visit São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island, part of the Eastern Group of the Azores Archipelago, has a unique climate shaped by various factors. This climate fosters the island’s lush vegetation and stunning landscapes. Temperatures stay mild year-round, with only slight variations.
In spring, temperatures average 16 °C, summer peaks at 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter hovers around 14 °C. For more details on the weather in the Azores, take a look at the following links:
- The weather in the Azores in January
- The weather in the Azores in February
- The weather in the Azores in March
- The weather in the Azores in April
- The weather in the Azores in May
- The weather in the Azores in July
- The weather in the Azores in August
Cultural Agenda of São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. The complete list of events is on the cultural agenda!
Video
Conclusion
Come explore the stunning south coast — a true paradise with an endless array of breathtaking beaches and landscapes. You must visit Caloura and experience the unrivaled beauty of the harbor in Lagoa. Witness hardworking fishermen reeling in their catch of the day and the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever see. Dive into crystal-clear waters, feel the sun on your skin, and let the beauty of the south coast completely envelop your senses.
Authors’ Note
I’m pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my experience and observations. As the author, I have personally visited each attraction mentioned, ensuring that every suggestion is grounded in first-hand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
References
- https://lagoa-acores.pt/menu/viver/cultura
- http://www.monumentos.gov.pt/Site/APP_PagesUser/SIPA.aspx?id=34706
- https://quintadaparodia.com/sobre-nos/
