Ribeira Grande, on the north coast of São Miguel Island, is a true paradise for waterfall lovers. Shaped by volcanic activity and abundant streams flowing down steep green valleys, this region offers some of the most impressive and diverse waterfalls in the Azores. From easily accessible spots to hidden gems along forest trails, here are the top waterfalls in Ribeira Grande you won’t want to miss.
Cascata do Limbo
Located in the charming parish of Porto Formoso, the Cascata do Limbo is one of Ribeira Grande’s most peaceful waterfalls. Tucked between lush vegetation and basalt cliffs, this small but magical cascade flows into a serene pool surrounded by ferns and endemic flora. It’s the perfect place to pause and enjoy the natural tranquility before or after exploring the nearby beaches and tea plantations.
Salto do Cabrito Waterfall
The Salto do Cabrito Waterfall is one of the most iconic and impressive waterfalls on São Miguel. Falling nearly 40 meters into a volcanic gorge, this waterfall creates a dramatic backdrop of cliffs, steam vents, and vibrant greenery.
The area can be visited by car or through a beautiful circular hike that passes geothermal pipes and overlooks the valley. For adventurous visitors, this is one of the best spots in Ribeira Grande.
Cascata das Lombadas
Hidden deep within the Lombadas valley, Cascata das Lombadas is surrounded by dense vegetation, warm geothermal streams, and untouched landscapes. It’s one of the most remote and scenic waterfalls in the region, offering a true sense of wilderness.
Access is recommended only for experienced hikers or those accompanied by a guide, as the path may be uneven. But those who reach it are rewarded with one of the island’s most authentic natural settings.
Waterfalls Along the Moinhos do Félix Trail
The charming parish of Lomba de São Pedro hides one of the most rewarding hiking trails in São Miguel: the Moinhos do Félix Trail, also known as PR18. Along this circular route, hikers will encounter three enchanting waterfalls carved into the landscape.
Cascata do Homem
This picturesque waterfall is one of the highlights of the trail. Its stream flows over mossy rock walls and tall trees, creating a soothing, peaceful environment. Many hikers pause here to enjoy the scenery before continuing toward the mills.
Cascata dos Moinhos do Félix
Located near the historic watermills that gave the trail its name, this waterfall offers a perfect combination of history and nature. The cascade flows through a narrow gorge next to ancient stone structures once used by local farmers to grind grain. This is one of the most charming spots on the route, and a perfect place for photos.
Cascata do Teófilo
The Cascata do Teófilo is the final waterfall along the trail and one of its most beautiful surprises. Surrounded by dense forest and the sound of running water, it creates a serene atmosphere ideal for a peaceful break. Here, hikers can appreciate the harmony between the old mills, the vibrant vegetation, and the timeless rhythm of the falling water.
Plan Your Visit to Ribeira Grande
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 remains mild throughout the year, with average values showing minimal fluctuations. Temperatures range from 16 °C in spring to 21 °C in summer, 18 °C in autumn, and 14 °C in winter.
Check all our articles about the weather in the Azores throughout the year 🌤️ ☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Where to Eat
Click on the following link to find a place to eat near Ribeira Grande. It will take you to TripAdvisor, where you can review the 10 best restaurants.
Where to Stay
Searching for the perfect place to stay? We’ve made it easy by filtering top accommodation options from Airbnb, Booking, and Trivago. Here, you’ll find the ideal place to stay and enjoy your visit!
Pro Tips
- Wear comfortable footwear: some trails can be steep or slippery.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
- Always respect nature: stay on marked trails and take your trash with you.
- Bring your camera, these waterfalls are among the island’s most photogenic spots.
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Nearby Attractions
Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande has several tourist attractions that promise to win over visitors. Here, you can enjoy the best of both worlds — the peace of nature and the hustle and bustle of the city. The government elevated the town to city status on June 29, 1981. The municipality of Ribeira Grande serves as the seat, and locals consider it the second-largest population area on São Miguel Island.
The region boasts natural attractions tucked away in lush surroundings, as well as historic and residential buildings, churches, and Gothic and Manueline-style monuments. It has a remarkable natural and architectural legacy.
Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande
The Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande thermal baths stand in the heart of São Miguel. In the mid-19th century, builders constructed these stone-masonry structures and painted them white. These baths feature stone-masonry structures painted white, enhancing the complex’s historical charm. The lush Laurissilva forest surrounds the thermal complex, and a stream crosses it, adding to its natural charm. In the center, you’ll find a boiling water caldera with varying shades of light blue.
The oldest bath in the complex dates back to 1803 and was later incorporated into the Crown Baths building in 1811. Around the caldera, visitors can find nine cooking holes and several grills. These facilities are perfect for enjoying a delightful family meal. The serene setting enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor dining.
Rabo de Peixe
Rabo de Peixe, located in Ribeira Grande on São Miguel Island, is the largest fishing port in the Azores. This picturesque fishing parish thrives on its fishing, agriculture, and manufacturing industries while preserving many of its deep-rooted traditions. The name “Rabo de Peixe” originates from the abundance of fishtails consumed by the local community.
This area is a cultural and architectural treasure, offering attractions that reflect Azorean heritage. Rabo de Peixe is also home to vibrant festivals and celebrations, including religious events and local culinary traditions. The town’s connection to the sea is evident, with the surrounding landscapes enhancing its authenticity. For those seeking a historical, immersive experience, Rabo de Peixe is an unmissable destination.
Additionally, the viral Netflix series Rabo de Peixe, filmed in the town, brought Rabo de Peixe international attention. The series helped highlight the town’s charm and unique features, as well as its rich culture and everyday life.
Areal de Santa Bárbara
Areal de Santa Bárbara is one of the most popular beaches on São Miguel Island, especially during the summer. Known for its unique tranquility and stunning landscapes, it provides the perfect setting for leisure and fun. In addition to being famous for its waves, which attract surfers from all over the world, the beach is known for its excellent infrastructure, which ensures comfort and accessibility for all visitors.
This beach has excellent facilities, including ample parking, accessibility for people with reduced mobility, showers, restrooms, a restaurant, and a bar. The parking lot is free and can accommodate over 300 vehicles. The beach is well-monitored and safe, earning the Blue Flag annually for its cleanliness and environmental quality. Additionally, it receives recognition as an Accessible Beach, ensuring everyone can enjoy its beauty. The water temperature remains pleasantly mild year-round, averaging 23°C.
→ Related Post: Best beaches in the Azores. Read more!
Miradouro de Santa Iria
The Miradouro de Santa Iria is located in Porto Formoso, in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, on the north coast of São Miguel Island. From here, you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of the coast.
Here you can contemplate the cliffs, covered in vegetation, and the rough Atlantic Ocean. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture these moments. This marvelous viewpoint captures the green beauty of the stunning island of São Miguel, set against the vast blue of the Atlantic Ocean.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest in Ribeira Grande: Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande | Ribeira Grande | Miradouro da Bela Vista | Lagoa de São Brás | Porto de Santa Iria | Poços de São Vicente | Praia dos Moinhos | Salto do Cabrito | Miradouro de Santa Iria | Rabo de Peixe | Pico da Barrosa | Areal de Santa Bárbara | Miradouro Vigia da Baleia | Jardim Municipal da Ribeira Grande | Waterfalls of Ribeira Grande
Complementary Information
Best Season to Visit the Azores
The Azores Archipelago boasts a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes, making it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, each season offers something unique. Spring averages 16 °C, summer reaches 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter remains mild at 14 °C.
→ For a detailed breakdown of the weather by month, check the following links 🌤️☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
How to Get to the Azores
The Azorean Archipelago is easily accessible through numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights available to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA). To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms let you compare prices and schedules from multiple airlines in one convenient location.
For more details on how to get to the Azores, take a look at our complete guide. But what if you want to explore beyond your arrival island? We’ve got you covered!
- Azores airports 🛬
- Flights between islands ✈️
- Ferries between islands ⛴️
- Which island to choose? 🏝️
- What airlines fly to the Azores? 🛩️
→ Once you’ve found the perfect route, book your tickets and get ready to experience one of the world’s most stunning island groups!
Travel Essentials
Essential Information for your Azores trip: Azorean Language & Phrases 🗣️ | Currency & Banks 💵 | Credit Cards & Traveler’s Cheques 🏧 | Driving in the Azores 🚗 | Electricity 🔌 | Experiences & Tours 🗺️ | Health & Safety 🩺 | Internet & Wi-Fi Access 🛜 | Phones & Mobile Service 📞 | Post Offices & Buying Stamps ✉️ | Public Holidays 🏖️ | Shopping 🛒 | Time & Daylight 🕒 | Whale Watching Guide 🐳 | Best Island to Visit 🏞️
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores provides live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, allowing you to check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
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Conclusion
The waterfalls of Ribeira Grande reveal some of the most authentic and enchanting landscapes in São Miguel. Each waterfall tells a different story, from volcanic origins to centuries-old traditions linked to the mills.
Whether you’re hiking the Moinhos do Félix trail, exploring Salto do Cabrito, or discovering the quiet charm of Cascata do Limbo, Ribeira Grande offers unforgettable experiences for every nature lover.
Ready to explore the wild north of São Miguel? Follow the sound of running water… and let Ribeira Grande’s waterfalls guide your adventure.
Authors’ Note
I am pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my personal 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.
FAQs
The waterfalls are spread across the municipality of Ribeira Grande, on the north coast of São Miguel Island. Some are in Porto Formoso, while others are along hiking trails, such as the Moinhos do Félix Trail in Lomba de São Pedro.
Not all of them. Salto do Cabrito is accessible by car, while waterfalls such as Cascata do Homem, Cascata do Teófilo, and Cascata dos Moinhos do Félix require hiking. The Moinhos do Félix Trail is moderate and suitable for most hikers.
Some waterfalls, like Salto do Cabrito, offer spots where visitors occasionally swim, but caution is always advised. Many cascades have rocky areas or shallow pools, so it’s best to assess conditions before entering the water.
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