Loved Hawaii? The Azores Is Your Next Destination

Travelers are attracted to Hawaii for island vacations filled with dramatic nature, cultural encounters, and an adventure-charged atmosphere mingled with rejuvenating experiences. If you have already explored Hawaii and are looking for something comparable, the Azores might be your next destination. 

This remote Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean offers a similar sense of tropical wonder, albeit with a uniquely European twist and fewer crowds. Let’s take a look at why the islands of the Azores are a fine alternative for Hawaii enthusiasts.

Nine islands with nine distinct personalities

Just as the islands of Hawaii differ in terms of landscapes and culture, the same sentiment applies to the nine islands of the Azores. Each has its own character: São Miguel has striking volcanic scenery while Flores is a floral wonderland. Terceira is known for its UNESCO-listed towns and Graciosa for its whitewashed homes. Pico boasts lava-rock vineyards, Faial is a sailing hub, and Corvo is a birdwatcher’s paradise. São Jorge is famed for its cheese and coffee whereas Santa Maria has the best beaches.

There are fewer resorts in the Azores with towns and accommodations celebrated for their authenticity. Quaint villages, traditional festivals, and family-run boutique hotels carry a more local feel.

Volcanic landscapes and geothermal marvels

As with Hawaii, the Azores islands are volcanic in origin, which means rugged coastlines, black sand beaches, stunning craters, and geothermal wonders are present across the chain. The Sete Cidades crater lakes of São Miguel are a breathtaking duo of blue and green lakes framed by lush greenery, while the dormant volcano Mount Pico dominates its namesake island. 

Thermal springs and fumaroles are scattered throughout the islands, giving visitors a glimpse of the Earth’s geothermal energy, akin to Hawaii’s Big Island. Many of these are used for thermal bathing with São Miguel having the widest variety overall: Poça da Dona Beija in Furnas is the most popular hot spring. This village is also famed for its geothermal cooking, where traditional stews are prepared underground using volcanic heat. Graciosa and São Jorge also have a decent number of springs, although the infrastructure is less developed.

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Outdoor adventures and wildlife in the Azores

If you were drawn to Hawaii for outdoor pursuits, the Azores will not disappoint. Nurtured by a mild, humid climate with regular showers, these islands are incredibly green year-round. Hiking trails take you to see falls tumbling down mossy cliffs and blooming summer hydrangeas. Canyoning, surfing, and scuba diving are also popular activities on the Azores, mirroring Hawaii’s adventure appeal. An abundant marine ecosystem also makes dolphin and whale sightings possible in all seasons. Migratory species and wildlife sea safaris are more prevalent between March and August.  

Portuguese culture meets island life

While Hawaii blends Polynesian culture with modern North American conveniences, the Azores offers a fascinating mix of European heritage and island living. Cobblestone streets lead to historic churches while Portuguese-inspired cuisine relies on seafood, local cheeses, and sweet pastries. The volcanic terrain yields grapes for mineral-heavy white wines and fortified varieties.

The Azores are served by non-stop flights from the East Coast of the United States, particularly from Boston and New York City. Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations when you are ready to book your trip to the Azores.