If you are seeking to swim in clear blue waters around São Miguel island, but without the crowds, then Porto de Santa Iria is exactly what you are looking for. Welcome to a tropical paradise well hidden from the masses.
Also known as Porto da Ribeirinha, Porto de Santa Iria is a peaceful place, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxing and intimate getaway. The slower pace of life in the Azores allows visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Discover everything about this natural pool only the locals know about!
What is Porto de Santa Iria?
Geology & Volcanology
At Porto de Santa Iria, you can see pieces of evidence of past volcanic eruptions with your bare eyes and feel them with your hand. Indeed, to reach water you need to pass by old lava, which dried a long time ago and created this natural pool surrounded by lava rock and interesting geological formations like the islets in the ocean.
All this comes from the Volcano of Lagoa do Fogo, whose last eruption was in 1543. It is still active and could erupt any day, but don’t worry, we have scientists keeping an eye on the Azorean volcanoes.
History & Geography
Porto de Santa Iria always was a fishing harbour, but nowadays you won’t see so many fishing boats. Now, some boats are doing excursions to explore the nearby caves and cliffs, and locals use this wonderful place to swim and sunbathe.
The small harbour of Santa Iria is located in Ribeirinha, in the county of Ribeira Grande – North coast of São Miguel island.
Fauna & Flora
Between the impressive high green cliffs and the magnificent Atlantic Ocean, Porto de Santa Iria is rich in marine wildlife. The Azores archipelago is a paradise for cetaceans, fish, and many aquatic species.
Here you have a beautiful small spot to jump off lava rocks or the tiny harbour made of cement. But don’t forget your mask and tuba, you won’t regret it! We might not have corals in the Azores, but fishes are colourful here.
What To Do At Porto de Santa Iria
Swim In the Atlantic Ocean
While Porto de Santa Iria itself does not have a sandy beach, you can swim at an authentic Azorean natural pool that used to be a fishing harbour. It might be different from the regular beach experience, but there is nothing better than living like a local! Those are probably the clearest and most luxurious waters you will find around.
👉 Post related Best Beaches in the Azores Islands. Read more
Please note that this is not an official bathing area so there is no lifeguard, changing rooms, toilets, café, or anything. If the weather or sea conditions are not great, we do not recommend taking a chance swimming there, also if you are not comfortable in the ocean.
Snorkel To Discover Incredible Marine Wildlife
Armed with your mask, tuba and flips, you will be able to discover so many species. Maybe if you are lucky, you can even spot some octopuses, rays, turtles and more.
Did you know
Some locals even like to do spearfishing in these clear waters as there are many species to be found, like parrotfish for instance.
Explore Via Coasteering
Through a local agency, you can explore the northern shore of São Miguel island in a whole different way. For the brave ones, get equipped and follow your guide in this amazing adventure jumping, sliding, climbing and playing with the tide.
Get in touch with us to experiment coasteering in the Azores!
Best Time To Visit Porto de Santa Iria
Best Time of the Day
To enjoy the sun, you need to come to Porto de Santa Iria in the morning or early afternoon. In fact, because of the high cliffs all around, the sun will hide quite fast behind. This is the best way to see the clear waters transparent.
However, if you want to avoid strong sun rays, you can always come at any time to this amazing place. It is open at any hour of the day and night, however, it is not recommended to come at night because there are no lights around.
Plan Your Visit To Porto de Santa Iria
How To Get To Porto de Santa Iria
Porto de Santa Iria is only 10 minutes away from the city of Ribeira Grande by car, towards Ribeirinha. Follow the directions towards Ponta do Cintrão and stop your car near the straight cement road on the right.
You cannot reach the harbour by car, or public transportation. You will need to walk for 5 minutes down to Porto de Santa Iria. It is quite a steep way down, and then up when you want to get back to the car. But it is all worth it!
What To Bring To Porto de Santa Iria
Walking on lava rocks to get to the ocean can be uncomfortable for some people. Bring water shoes to walk safely on the rocks. Sunscreen is always very important to bring in the Azores, because of the strong sun rays. As there is no sand, you will not be able to bring a beach umbrella.
A mask and tuba are a must-have, if the sea conditions are nice. And always have some snacks and water with you!
Where To Eat Near Porto de Santa Iria
If you need somewhere to eat near Porto de Santa Iria, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where To Stay Near Porto de Santa Iria
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Pro Tips
Do not swim at Porto de Santa Iria if you are not a good swimmer. The sea conditions can change very quickly and you could get stuck in a current. Also, make sure to not go alone and inform someone that you are going there.
Check the sea conditions before going there, or if in doubt, ask locals their opinion on the spot. From April to the early summer, be careful with the Portuguese Man of War that sting and cause severe burns.
What To Do Around Porto de Santa Iria
Explore Ponta do Cintrão
Ponta do Cintrão is the peninsula hosting Porto de Santa Iria. From afar, its shape reminds of a turtle, especially when seen from the Miradouro de Santa Iria.
Inside the peninsula, you can admire beautiful views over the North Coast of São Miguel island at Miradouro da Ponta do Cintrão, and also go to the old lighthouse at the very end of the peninsula.
Visit 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 the island of São Miguel. From here, you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of the coast.
Here you can contemplate the cliffs full of vegetation and the rough Atlantic Ocean. Don’t forget to take a camera with you to capture these moments.
This marvelous viewpoint reflects the green beauty of the stunning island of São Miguel, surrounded by the vast blue of the Atlantic Ocean.
Take A Stroll In Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande has several tourist attractions that promise to win the hearts of those who visit the town. Here you can enjoy the best of both worlds — the peace of nature and the hustle and bustle of the city.
The town was elevated to the category of city on June 29, 1981 — the seat of the municipality of Ribeira Grande. It is considered the second-largest population area on the island of São Miguel.
Quick Info
The municipality of Ribeira Grande is the flattest on the island, and its highest point is Pico da Barrosa at 947 meters above sea level.
Full of natural attractions hidden in the middle of nature, historic and residential buildings, churches and other monuments in the Gothic and Manueline style. The region has an amazing natural and architectural legacy.
Points of Interest in Ribeira Grande
- Arquipélago — Contemporary Arts Center;
- Pico Vermelho Geothermal Power Station;
- Porto Formoso Tea Factory;
- Gorreana Tea Factory;
- Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Estrela;
- São Brás Lagoon.
- Ponta de Santa Iria Viewpoint;
- Maia Tobacco Museum;
- Municipal Museum of Ribeira Grande;
- Poças Municipal Swimming Pools;
- Monte Verde Beach;
- Oito Arcos Bridge.
Go To the Beach At Areal de Santa Bárbara
Areal de Santa Bárbara is one of the most coveted spots for sunbathers in the summer. Here you can enjoy fun and relaxing moments with your family and friends.
This place is also known worldwide for its waves — something we’ll talk about later in this article.
Here, you’ll find good facilities to support bathers, from car parks to access for people with reduced mobility and various showers, toilets, a restaurant and a bar.
Quick Info
The car park at Areal de Santa Bárbara is completely free and has a capacity of over 300 spaces.
Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach is a guarded and safe beach and is recognised annually with the Blue Flag and as an Accessible Beach.
It is also important to emphasise that for most of the year, the water has very pleasant temperatures, averaging around 23 °C.
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 Porto de Santa Iria
Conclusion
Overall, Porto de Santa Iria is a serene and visually stunning destination on São Miguel Island, offering visitors the chance to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Azores. It’s a great place to relax, explore the outdoors, and enjoy the tranquillity of the Atlantic coastline.
Swimming in the clear waters of Porto de Santa Iria is a must-do in São Miguel island if the weather conditions allow it. You should add it to your list of places to visit when on holiday in the Azores.
