The Azores islands are known for their breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Among the many beautiful beaches in the archipelago, Praia dos Mosteiros (Mosteiros Beach) stands out as one of the most picturesque and popular destinations.
This black-sand beach, of volcanic origin, is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. Also, for its volcanic islets that always stand by its side in the Atlantic Ocean. The name Mosteiros means “monasteries”, referring to one of the larger rock formations that supposedly resembles a church.
In this article, we will explore everything about Mosteiros Beach and its unique qualities that make it a special place.
What is Praia dos Mosteiros?
Geology & Volcanology
The town of Mosteiros is the result of a volcanic eruption that gave birth to the current landscapes of Sete Cidades. It is what we call a fajã — a natural platform by the ocean created by dried lava. You can see some evidence of volcanic activity around town, for instance, at the natural pools formed from volcanic lava, or at the beach with its black sand.
Along the beach, you will find two little rivers coming from ridges of the mountains slightly further East. It is where the volcanic complex of Sete Cidades lies.
History & Geography
Mosteiros has a strong connection with the ocean. It is a small fishing village with approximately 1,000 inhabitants, also engaged in agricultural activities. Its fishing harbour is near Praia dos Mosteiros. If you want to learn more about fishing as a strength in the village’s economy, visit Casa do Pescador. This museum was founded in 2004. Two old mills stopped working about 60 years ago.
The coastal town is located in Ponta Delgada’s county. It is on the northwestern point of São Miguel island, right at the base of the Sete Cidades volcanic complex.
👉 Post related: Best Beaches in the Azores Islands. Read more!
Fauna & Flora
The coast of Mosteiros is one of the best spots on the green island to observe wintering birds, mainly waders. Among the species, you can see the typical stern, northern gannet, Cory’s Shearwater, snowy egret, ruddy turnstone, ringed plover, common redshank, Eurasian whimbrel, and seagulls, but not only! The best season to birdwatch in Mosteiros is between September and March.
The birds love to nest on the islets by the beach called Ilhéus dos Mosteiros. But you can find birds all along the coastline. Some rare birds can be seen with a bit of luck. For example, the double-crested cormorant, great skua, sea hawk, and bar-tailed godwit, among many others.
Culture & Festivities
In August every year, the Festival das Marés takes place, a music festival near Mosteiros beach. It attracts hundreds of people every year to attend live concerts of famous national artists. People usually bring a tent and sleep at the camping site.
There is also a significant religious event in Mosteiros celebrated on the third Sunday of August. You will see processions to honour the saints of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Santo Antão, São Pedro, and Coração de Jesus.
What to Do at Praia dos Mosteiros
Swim and Snorkel Around
Mosteiros Beach stretches for about 500 meters of dark sand and clear waters. For those who want to explore the underwater world, Mosteiros Beach is also an excellent destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. The clear waters around the Ilhéus dos Mosteiros are teeming with marine life, and visitors can see everything from colourful fish to octopuses and sea turtles. Sometimes you can even spot dolphins swimming nearby.
Quick Info
Right near the beach, you will find all the facilities you will need: toilets, showers, changing rooms, and even a snack bar. Parking spaces are free.
Take Nice Pictures of the Volcanic Islets
The ilhéus dos Mosteiros are the perfect set for epic pictures. The four geological formations, approximately 1 kilometre away from the shore, are what remains of a small island formed by a hydromagmatic eruption. The legend says that two of the islets are the doors to Atlantis, the lost island.
Did you know
Those same islets are today a significant bird reserve, which turns them into an ideal bird-watching spot. It is possible to take a boat tour to the islets or rent a kayak to get a closer look at them.
Surf the Atlantic Waves
Praia dos Mosteiros is quite a famous destination among surfers. Indeed, the waves at Mosteiros Beach can get strong at times. Some surfers even stay until the last sun rays of the day. Surfers come from all over the world to try the waves of the Azores, and Mosteiros is one of the best beaches to surf. You can find several surf schools on the island to ride the waves at Praia dos Mosteiros for lessons or equipment rental.
Watch the Best Sunset on the Island
One of the most renowned spots on São Miguel island to watch the sunset is Praia dos Mosteiros. This is probably the best spot to witness a stunning sunset over the ocean. From the beach, you can see the beautiful islets and the sun slowly setting behind them. This is a great time to have a last swim and say goodbye to this gorgeous Atlantic beach.
Best Time to Visit Praia dos Mosteiros
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 vary between:
- 16 °C in spring;
- 21 °C in summer;
- 18 °C in autumn;
- 14 °C in winter.
Best Time of the Day
Praia dos Mosteiros is a popular area for locals and travellers in search of a beautiful beach to lie on a towel and swim a bit, mainly during the summertime. Also, you will find fishermen on the rocks around the coast.
To avoid crowds, it is better to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can also visit the beach at sunset for the best view and fewer people, as the town is a bit far from the central city of Ponta Delgada, and people prefer to get home before it gets dark.
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
Plan Your Visit to Praia dos Mosteiros
How to Get to Praia dos Mosteiros
To reach Praia dos Mosteiros from the central city of Ponta Delgada, you need to take the EN1-1A road westward. Continue on the same main road along the coast until you find the indication towards Mosteiros on your left to a road going down by the ocean. Once in the centre of the town, follow the indications towards the beach. You will find free parking right next to the beach.
Mosteiros is approximately 28 kilometres from Ponta Delgada, a 45-minute drive by car. It’s an easy drive, but with plenty of twists and turns. The easiest way to visit Mosteiros is by renting a car, but you can also go by taxi or by bus. However, note that public transportation is not very regular, and you will have to wait some time before the next bus.
What to Bring
For Mosteiros beach, depending on the sea conditions, you should bring your swimming suit, a towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, sunglasses, a hat, some water, and snacks. For the adventurous ones, bring your mask and snorkel to see the marine life. If the weather isn’t ideal, don’t forget your rain jacket.
From November to June? You may also want to bring a wetsuit to stay warm in the ocean, as the sea temperatures are slightly cooler (although locals swim all year round). Last but not least, if you’re not accustomed to black sand beaches, consider packing water shoes for extra comfort, as the dark sand can get very hot, especially when the sun is out. You might also step on some rocks.
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
If you need somewhere to eat near Praia dos Mosteiros, click here. In this link, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants on Tripadvisor.
Where to Stay
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Pro Tips
If you want to find a parking space, it’s better to come outside of peak times – the earlier, the better. It is the same way to find a good spot to lay your towel.
Look at the sea conditions before driving to Mosteiros. Do not enter the water if the waves are big and if you do not see any swimmers in it. Also, be aware of the Portuguese man-of-war, which is most prevalent in the springtime. This is a type of ‘jellyfish’ that is very harmful and can lead to severe burns.
→ Related articles: Portuguese Man-o’-War Jellyfish
Nearby Attractions
Have a Barbecue at the Grill Areas
Along the coast of Mosteiros town, you will find several barbecue areas with different views of the ocean and the islets. Grilling your food is a popular activity in the Azores. This is a great way to end the day, and Mosteiros is the perfect place to do so, thanks to its unique location, which allows you to watch the sunset while enjoying your dinner.
If you prefer not to cook, there are many excellent restaurants in town. The specialty of this area is seafood: roasted octopus, barnacles, limpets, slipper lobsters, and, of course, any fresh fish.
Ponta da Ferraria Hot Spring
Ponta da Ferraria is one of the hot springs on São Miguel island, but this one is special. Indeed, what makes it unique is that the hot water is located inside the ocean, rather than in a pool constructed by humans. You can also go all the way to Mosteiros and watch the sunset.
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
Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades is a picturesque town with approximately 800 inhabitants. Located at the bottom of the volcanic crater, this village by the lake is peaceful and relaxing for a stroll. Don’t forget to visit the well-known Church of São Nicolau.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest in Sete Cidades: Caldeira Seca | Janela do Inferno | Miradouro da Grota do Inferno | Lagoa das Empadadas | Sete Cidades | Lagoa das Sete Cidades | Lagoa de Santiago | Lagoa do Canário | Lagoa do Congro | Miradouro das Cumeeiras | Monte Palace Hotel | Sete Cidades Legend | Miradouro da Vista do Rei | Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint | Pico da Vara
Mosteiros Natural Pools
If you follow the coastal road, not far from Praia dos Mosteiros, you will find fantastic natural pools formed from volcanic rocks with crystal-clear water. Forget about the sand mess in your hair and on your skin; at the natural pools, you can lay your towel on the dried lava flows.
You can often see local children jumping from the rocks into the deeper pool. Swim in the pristine waters of Poço da Pedra, known to have special medicinal properties. Natural tides constantly replenish the water, but some algae remain.
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
Mosteiros Beach is one of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the Azores. With its black sand contrasting with towering green cliffs and small islets rising from the sea, it offers a dramatic and picturesque landscape that is perfect for photography and exploration.
Whether you’re a surfer, swimmer, diver, or just someone who wants to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Mosteiros Beach has something for everyone. With its unique location, easy access, and wide range of activities, it’s no wonder that Praia dos Mosteiros is one of the locals’ favourite beaches in São Miguel island.
The landscape is simply unbelievable, which is why you should visit Mosteiros when on holiday in the Azores. Additionally, it is an excellent example of a typical Azorean village, providing a glimpse into what rural life can be like in our archipelago.
