Ponta da Ferraria, Azores: The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide

There are so many wonderful things to do when visiting São Miguel. Consider adding Ponta da Ferraria to your bucket list, in case you are looking for an exceptional Azorean experience!

Can you imagine an authentic Atlantic Spa? Yes, that is right! An underwater geothermal spring that heats the ocean. Ferraria is a must-stop destination that will undoubtedly surprise you.

What is Ponta da Ferraria

Located on the west coastline of São Miguel, in Ginetes, only a few miles from Ponta Delgada city, Ponta da Ferraria is a protected geosite. It boasts one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays: a natural pool where thermal water meets the ocean. The atmosphere here is one of pure harmony between the azure sea and the dark basaltic rocks. It’s ideal for those who seek an eccentric experience.

Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest in Ponta Delgada: Gruta do Carvão | Ponta Delgada | Jardim António Borges | Jardim Botânico José do Canto | Pinhal da Paz | Portas da Cidade | Milícias & Pópulo Beaches | Praia de São Roque | Pico Vermelho Windmill | Rocha da Relva | Mercado da Graça | Miradouro Vigia da Baleia

How Was Ponta da Ferraria Formed?

Ponta da Ferraria is a fajã, a unique phenomenon known as a pseudocrater. These can be found in hardly any places in the world aside from the Azores. The Ferraria pseudocrater was formed a long time ago when hot lava flowed over the sea, causing steam explosions. The volcanic phenomenon of two thermal springs is the driving force behind the ocean temperature. It varies from 18 to 28 degrees, depending on the tide and time of year.

What to Do in Ponta da Ferraria

Whether you come for the unique experience or the impressive basaltic cliffs, here you will find a bit of everything for everyone, from the most adventurous to those who love relaxing in a spa.

Ponta da Ferraria Viewpoint

For instance, the Ferraria viewpoint, also known as the Sabrina Island viewpoint. It is an idyllic place to enjoy the beautiful and life-changing moments of a sunset. Magnificent views of great cliffs precede the deep blue ocean. There is another delightful sight at this viewpoint: a charming red lighthouse. It is the second-oldest lighthouse on the island of São Miguel, and is also the largest in the Azores.

Incredible, otherworldly landscapes, Ponta da Ferraria Viewpoint is worth a quick stop!

Natural Swimming Pool with Thermal Water

Once you have taken the drive down a cliff, you only need to follow an asphalt path that will lead you to a small natural pool surrounded by dramatic, sharp volcanic rocks.

Here, a free geothermal spring seeps into the sea, a rare natural phenomenon. They heat water from below, providing pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from 18 to 28 degrees, at low tide. Be aware that the water from thermal springs can reach temperatures of up to 61 °C. This means that, at the peak of the low tide, the water, close to the spring, might be too hot.

Unfortunately, Ferraria’s enchanting waters are not exactly peaceful. Even though there are ropes to allow you to hold on, the currents and crashing waves can still be too strong, depending on the weather. Undoubtedly, for those who seek adventure and nature over relaxation. For one thing, nothing beats soaking in a natural thermal spring in the middle of the Atlantic.

Ferraria Hot Springs – Thermal Spa

This complex features a pool of thermal water and a restaurant, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. If you are looking for a more relaxing experience, Termas da Ferraria should be your pick. It is a thermal complex that includes pools and a restaurant. One of the wonderful aspects of this complex is that it utilizes volcanic thermal water from two springs.

Here, you can indulge in a unique experience, whether it’s an individual or group treatment, such as massages or half or full-day programs. Due to its composition, it is said that thermal waters have therapeutic qualities. Studies suggest several health benefits in easing symptoms of conditions like:

• Rheumatoid arthritis;
• Osteoarthritis;
• Psoriasis;
• Inflammatory skin pathologies.

Plan Your Visit to Ponta da Ferraria

Firstly, time your visit to Ponta da Ferraria to ensure you can make the most of this experience in the stunning, warm-water pool.

Note: Be prepared for potential inconveniences, such as crowds of people, rough seas, and limited parking spaces.

Best Time to Visit

It is advisable to visit Ponta da Ferraria when the tide is rising or lowering to enjoy the pleasant temperatures. If the tide is high, the water will be cold, and if the tide is low, it may be hotter but uncomfortable.

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

Best Season to Visit

You can visit Ferraria in any season, regardless of the weather; the water temperature remains consistent even when the tide is low. Furthermore, only during the summer, lifeguards patrol to keep swimmers safe. As for winter, there are no lifeguards on duty.

GOOD TO KNOW
During winter or days with rough seas, waves can be quite aggressive and impose danger.

Best Time of the Day

The best time to visit Ponta da Ferraria for a bath in the thermal natural pool is between two hours before and after the low tide. Furthermore, during the second low tide, it is believed that there are fewer people.

How to Get to Ponta da Ferraria

From Ponta Delgada, head southwest on EN1-1A towards the airport. Follow EN1-1A to Ginetes, then follow the signs to Ponta da Ferraria.

GOOD TO KNOW
Please be aware the road down is a very steep hill.

If You Travel with Kids or Older People

Due to the rocky formation and, at times, rough sea conditions, Ferraria’s natural pool might not be ideal for everyone. It is best for good swimmers who are comfortable in the water.

No matter what, always check sea conditions first!

At the same time, the Termas da Ferraria complex is an ideal option for everyone, including families with young children. Above all, indeed, all the volcanic scenery is worth visiting, whether you take a swim or not.

What to Bring

Due to the mineral-rich water and jagged rocks on the way and at the bottom of the pool, be sure to bring:

• Dark old bathing suit;
• Towel;
• Suncream;
• Water shoes,
• Change of clothes (especially in Summer) to avoid having a cold.

It is also essential to note that changing rooms and showers are available. So you might want to bring a change of clothes.

Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest in Mosteiros: Mosteiros | Ponta da Ferraria | Praia dos Mosteiros | Pico Vermelho Windmill | Miradouro da Ilha Sabrina | Miradouro Vigia da Baleia

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 enable you to compare prices and schedules from various 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

Visiting Ponta da Ferraria is an absolute must during your vacation on São Miguel Island. This magical island is renowned for its thermal hot springs, but swimming in the Atlantic waters heated by a volcano is truly mind-blowing. Hop on one of our tours that has this unique place on the itinerary, and enjoy the ultimate relaxing experience — waiting for your visit!

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