Caloura is a small fishing village by the sea where leisure and fun meet Azorean history and culture. Known for its bathing areas, this place, just 20 kilometers from Ponta Delgada, attracts kids and adults alike.
Located in the parish of Água de Pau, Caloura is the ex-libris of the municipality of Lagoa in São Miguel. It has an excellent landscape with a secluded beach, a fishing harbor with a natural swimming pool, and countless historical moments in the region.
In this article, we’ll discuss Caloura’s history and the main tourist attractions in the region.
What is a Caloura?
Caloura is a small Azorean village in Vale de Cabaços, in the parish of Água de Pau, in the municipality of Lagoa, in São Miguel.
This “spot” is characterized by its seaside location, where the magnificent coastline surrounded by basalt cliffs full of lush vegetation stands out. It is known for its beautiful bathing areas and historical importance.
In addition to its vast natural and material heritage, this is a land of fishermen and wine production — Vinho de Cheiro. In this sense, if you’re a good foodie and want to enjoy moments of tranquility and leisure, this is an unmissable place on your visit to the island.
History and Geography of Caloura
Caloura is known for its iconic bathing areas, but its charm doesn’t stop there. In this sense, you should know that Caloura has an important historical value, both for So Miguel and for the archipelago. One of the oldest convents in the Azores is located here — the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição.
What’s more, this area is known for its material heritage and because of this monument. Here, you’ll also find other historical sites such as hermitages, gardens, and the Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura Battery — a fortification for defending Caloura Harbor and the convent from pirate and corsair attacks.
Caloura is geographically close to Água de Pau, between Lagoa and Vila Franca do Campo. It is located right on the oceanfront, surrounded by cliffs and steep hills to Água de Pau.
Where Does the Name “Caloura” Come From?
As mentioned, this is where the oldest convent on the island of São Miguel is located, and curiously, the name “Caloura” comes from the religious orders passed through here.
In other words, in 1630, when the hermit friars sought refuge from the eruption of the Furnas Volcano, they ended up settling in the “Conventinho” (small convent) of Vale de Cabaços.
These friars were known as calouros (fledglings), so the locals began to call them Vale de Cabaços, the name we know today — Caloura.
What to Do in Caloura?
Caloura offers many activities and experiences that are of historical, cultural, and even leisure interest. So take the opportunity to get in touch with nature, enjoy unique moments, and get to know this beautiful region. In this regard, we would like to highlight the main points of interest in this region:
- Caloura Convent;
- Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura Battery;
- Caloura Harbor Natural Swimming Pools;
- Caloura Beach/Baixa d’Areia Beach;
- Caloura Cultural Centre;
- Arcos da Caloura.
You can also do some activities and water sports here, such as:
- Kayaking;
- Stand-up paddle;
- Snorkeling;
- Fishing
- Diving;
- Among others.
Regarding cultural experiences, we would highlight Caloura Blues, a music festival that usually takes place at the end of July on Baixa d’Areia Beach. This is the ideal event for those who like to have fun without confusion or crowds.
Visit the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura
The Convent of Our Lady of the Conception of Caloura, also known simply as the Convent of Caloura or the Caloura Recollection, was built on cliffs and has a privileged location by the sea.
Erected during the first half of the 16th century, this modest Baroque-style building has historical links to the Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres cult. Curiously, it is one of the oldest convents on the island and in the archipelago
This monument, located in the parish of Água de Pau, in the municipality of Lagoa, in São Miguel, has been classified as a Property of Public Interest by the Regional Government of the Azores since 2008.
It should be noted that the Caloura Convent consists of a hermitage attached to the convent and several gardens. Two low bell towers flank the façade of the hermitage. The frontispiece of the main façade has a niche containing the image of Our Lady of the Conception.
The interior of this building is adorned with a valuable collection of tiles in shades of blue and yellow on a white background, probably dating from the 17th century. The chancel also stands out for its precious altarpieces, which display various images of angels.
Origin of the Caloura Convent
At the beginning of the 16th century, two devout women from Vila Franca do Campo chose this region to live in seclusion and devotion to Christ. To this end, accompanied by the 5th Captain Donatory of São Miguel and a town council representative, they went to Rome to ask Pope Paul III for a papal bull to found a monastery.
The Pope granted their request and presented the devotees with an image of the Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres. This image became the most significant in the archipelago, giving rise to the Feast of the Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres, the second-largest religious event in the country.
Due to its location by the sea, the congregation, and the image offered by Pope Paul II were transferred to the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Esperança in Ponta Delgada, where they are today.
Explore the Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura Battery
The Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura Battery, also known as Nossa Senhora da Conceição Fort, Caloura Convent Fort, or simply Caloura Fort, is located in the village of Caloura in Vale de Cabaços. Although it has been referred to numerous times as a fort, this site cannot technically be classified as such since it has an open structure and a unique battery characteristic.
This fortification was designed to defend the Port of Caloura and the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura from frequent pirate and privateer attacks. It was built in the mid-16th century at the behest of Manuel de Sousa Correia, the son of the Captain Major of Ribeira Grande.
Today, both the Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Caloura Battery and the Caloura Convent are in good repair. However, they are part of a private estate used to grow vines, which are characteristic of the region.
Diving in the Caloura Harbor Natural Pools
The Caloura Harbor Natural Pools are considered one of São Miguel’s most emblematic bathing areas and are much appreciated by its visitors. We can also say that this is one of the main tourist attractions in Lagoa. These natural pools are located in Caloura’s unique fishing harbor, one of the oldest on the island and the biggest attraction in the area.
Today, this quiet bay has good facilities for bathers, including access for people with reduced mobility, free car parks, toilets, showers, and a snack bar/restaurant—considered by many to be the best fish restaurant in the region.
With an average water temperature of around 22 °C in summer, these natural pools are monitored and safe and are recognized annually with the Blue Flag — you can swim in peace. It should be noted that this is where the Fisherman’s Festival is held, which attracts thousands of tourists to Caloura. Musical concerts and various nautical activities essentially characterize it.
The Caloura Natural Pools are known by divers and snorkelers for their crystal-clear waters with colorful fish. There is also a small children’s pool here.
Enjoying the Sun at Baixa D’Areia Beach
Praia da Baixa D’Areia, also known as Praia da Caloura, is on the opposite side of Caloura Harbor. Sheltered between ravines, in a small indentation in the coast, this beach of very fine sand receives many bathers yearly to enjoy sunbathing and a dip in the sea. Access to Praia da Caloura is via a high staircase carved into the cliffs.
So if you like relatively small, secluded bathing areas with crystal-clear blue-green waters, soft white sand and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Praia da Caloura is a must-see destination. Praia da Baixa D’Areia has a large car park, changing rooms, and one of the best-equipped picnic areas in São Miguel.
This bathing area is well known among water sports enthusiasts as it offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. The clear waters are home to various marine life, including colorful fish and octopuses. In addition, there are some natural pools carved into the volcanic rock, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Visit the Caloura Cultural Centre
The Caloura Cultural Centre is full of art and culture and has Azorean roots. Open to the public since June 2005 and located in the Castle area of Fajã da Caloura, this museum space was created from the private collection of Tomaz Borba Vieira.
Did you know
Tomaz Borba Vieira is a well-known painter, writer, and teacher from São Miguel who, over many years, amassed a remarkable collection of 20th-century Portuguese works of art.
This place offers an extensive collection of works of art by some of the most important names in the history of Portuguese art/painting from the last century, such as Cruzeiro Seixas, Eduardo Nery, and Paula Rego. The museum also highlights Azorean artists such as Canto da Maia, Domingos Rebelo, and Victor Camara.
Snorkeling at Arcos da Caloura
The Arcos da Caloura are rock formations and underwater caves 300 meters from the coast in a protected bay. At a depth of between 5 and 18 meters, they offer exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities.
The main attraction is the underwater life inside an impressive cave. Shoals of large groupers and other residents are common here, while various nudibranchs live on the ceiling. In the area surrounding the cave, marine life is diverse, including small species such as:
- Moray eels;
- Pufferfish (Sphoeroides marmoratus);
- Kingfish (Coris julis);
- Plaice (Bothus podas);
- Queenfish (Thalassoma pavo);
- Salema (Sarpa salpa);
- Chromis limbata;
- Red seabream (Sparisoma cretense);
- Groupers (Serranus atricauda);
- Among others.
Best Time to Visit Caloura
Due to its location, São Miguel’s climate is mild, which is the result of various factors that contribute to its unparalleled botanical richness and scenic value. However, regardless of the season, temperatures hardly change, varying between:
- 16 °C in spring;
- 21 °C in summer;
- 18 °C in autumn;
- 14 °C in winter.
However, despite all this, Caloura is known for having one of the best microclimates on the island, as it is situated on flat land at a low altitude. Caloura has less humidity and sunnier days, thanks to its geographical location, making it one of the islanders’ favorite spots for strolling and swimming.
🌦️ 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
Plan Your Visit to Caloura
Many consider Caloura to be one of the best coastal areas in São Miguel and the Azorean archipelago.
As you might expect, this is a popular spot for holidaymakers during the summer months — as this is the best time to enjoy the region’s bathing areas. So, to have the best possible experience, you should plan your trip in good time.
However, if you are looking for a quiet destination to relax and enjoy the sun and good weather provided by the microclimate here, it may be more beneficial to book your stay in Caloura for the spring.
Considering your tastes, it’s also advisable to book flights and accommodation in advance to get better deals and better value for money.
How to Get to Caloura
From Ponta Delgada, in the direction of the parish of Água de Pau, you will have to travel around 20 kilometers to reach the town of Caloura. You have several options for traveling to your destination: you can choose to travel by car/motorbike, taxi, public transport (bus), or bicycle.
Following the EN1-1A, the journey takes approximately:
- Car, motorbike, or taxi: 20 minutes;
- Bus: 38 minutes — although the journey on this form of transport only takes 38 minutes, you should allow another 35 minutes on foot. In other words, this journey takes a total of 1 hour and 13 minutes;
- Bicycle: 1 hour and 5 minutes;
You can make this journey on foot, but you should expect to spend approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes walking along the Estrada Regional do Pópulo.
What to Do Around Caloura?
After discovering the different monuments we’ve listed, sunbathing, and taking a dip in the sea at Porto da Caloura and Praia da Baixa D’Areia, explore the area around Caloura. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some cultural and tourist attractions close to the beach. Here are some suggestions to make your stay in São Miguel unforgettable.
Explore the Municipality of Lagoa
Lagoa is where nature meets urban life and creates the perfect balance. Just a few minutes from the city, hidden trails are full of waterfalls, mystical volcanic lakes, and idyllic beaches. Culture and history lovers will also be satisfied thanks to the many museums and traditional events.
In this regard, we’ve highlighted the main points of interest in the municipality of Lagoa:
- Agricultural Museum and Ethnographic Courtyard;
- Ethnographic Museum of Cabouco;
- Caloura;
- Água de Pau;
- Fisherman’s House;
- Vieira Ceramics Factory;
- Church of Our Lady of the Rosary;
- Church of Santa Cruz;
- Living Science Centre — Expolab;
- Lagoa Municipal Swimming Pool Complex;
- Volcanological and Geothermal Observatory of the Azores;
- Chã da Macela Forest Park;
- Monte Santo Viewpoint;
- Pisão Viewpoint;
- Franciscan Convent Garden;
- Largo do Porto dos Carneiros;
- Nossa Senhora da Graça Square;
- Among others.
Explore the Municipality of Vila Franca do Campo
Vila Franca do Campo is a parish and municipality located south of São Miguel. The town was built in the 15th century, shortly after discovering the Azorean archipelago. It was the first capital of São Miguel for many years until a strong earthquake in 1522 destroyed it. However, despite being rebuilt, Ponta Delgada became the island’s new capital.
After this tragedy, however, the city was rebuilt once again, and today, you can see some unmissable tourist attractions on your visit to the island. Here are suggestions for all tastes:
- Viewpoint and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz;
- Vila Franca do Campo Islet;
- Queijadas Factory in Vila do Morgado;
- Parish Church of St. Michael the Archangel;
- Lagoa do Congro;
- Castelo Branco’s viewpoint;
- Amora and Areias beaches;
- Água D’Alto Beach;
- Degredo Beach;
- Vinha D’Areia Beach;
- Vila Franca do Campo Marina;
- Baixio de Vila Franca Fort or Tagarete Fort;
- Vila Franca do Campo Municipal Museum;
- Vila Franca do Campo Municipal Market;
- Ponta da Graça Lighthouse;
- Cerrado dos Bezerros Forest Reserve;
- Among others.
Where To Eat Near Caloura
If you need somewhere to eat near Caloura, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where To Stay Near Caloura
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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 of Caloura, Água de Pau (São Miguel, Azores)
Conclusion
Caloura is a friendly fishing village with a characteristic beauty resulting from the uniqueness of the surrounding landscapes. It is the ideal place to enjoy walks by the sea with your family and friends.
In this sense, it is the destination for many holidaymakers looking for an area to rest and relax. You can also visit many natural tourist attractions and monuments steeped in history. What are you waiting for to visit this ex-libris of the island of São Miguel?
