Boat Tour: Caves & Cliffs Tour on the Wild North Coast
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your adventure in Rabo de Peixe, a traditional Azorean fishing village that remains untouched by mass tourism, offering a genuine glimpse of island life.
As you travel east along São Miguel’s north coast by boat, your guide will share insights into its natural beauty, geology, and culture. Sail past the black-sand surf beach of Areal de Santa Bárbara and the dramatic cliffs of the Santa Iria viewpoint, one of the island’s most iconic landscapes.
Continue to the lush valley of Praia dos Moinhos, once powered by historic water mills, where green hills meet the Atlantic.
From the sea, enjoy a rare view of the Porto Formoso tea plantation—one of Europe’s last remaining tea producers. Throughout the tour, your local guide will bring the coastline to life with stories of volcanic origins, seafaring traditions, and hidden gems.
Available options
Boat Tour: Caves & Cliffs Tour on the Wild North Coast
What's included
Guided boat experience
Cultural and geological interpretation
Life jackets and safety gear
Detailed itinerary
1
Ponta do Cintrão is a dramatic headland on São Miguel’s north coast, offering towering cliffs, unique lava formations, and panoramic ocean views. It marks one of the island’s most striking coastal points.
2
Porto Formoso Port is a small, traditional fishing harbor nestled in a scenic bay, known for calm waters, colorful boats, and its proximity to the island’s famous tea plantations.
3
Santa Iria Port is a small, hidden harbor with crystal-clear waters, once used by locals for fishing and sea access. Today, it’s a peaceful, scenic spot tucked below the Santa Iria cliffs.
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
29 reviews
5★
29
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please meet us at our kiosk, next to the Naval Club building, at the entrance of the Rabo de Peixe harbor.
About Sao Miguel
Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, is renowned for its lush landscapes, hot springs, and dramatic volcanic features. With its mild climate, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
Top Attractions
Setes Cidades
A stunning volcanic crater lake with vibrant blue and green waters, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free
Furnas
A geothermal area known for its hot springs, steaming vents, and the famous Cozido das Furnas, a traditional meal cooked underground.
Nature
Half day to full day
Terra Nostra Park: €10
Ponta Delgada
The capital city of Sao Miguel, featuring historic churches, beautiful gardens, and a vibrant marina.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cozido das Furnas
A traditional stew cooked underground using geothermal heat, featuring various meats and vegetables.
Main Course
Contains meat and vegetables, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Lapas com Banana
A local dish of limpet (a type of sea snail) cooked with bananas, a unique combination of flavors.
Main Course
Contains seafood and bananas, not suitable for those with seafood allergies.
Queijadas da Vila
Small cheesecake-like pastries made with local cheese, sugar, and cinnamon.
Dessert
Contains dairy, suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Whale watching
Scuba diving
Kayaking
Visiting hot springs
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
June to September
The summer months offer the warmest weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The island is vibrant with festivals and outdoor events.
18-25°C
64-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Azores Time, AZOT)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sao Miguel is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- João Paulo II Airport • 5 km from Ponta Delgada
By bus
Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary public transport option. They are affordable but can be infrequent and may not reach all destinations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ponta Delgada
Furnas
Setes Cidades
Day trips
Pico Island
25 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Pico Island is known for its dramatic landscapes, including Mount Pico, Portugal's highest peak, and its vineyards, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Faial Island
20 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Faial Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Horta harbor and the Capelinhos Volcano, as well as its rich maritime history.
Santa Maria Island
30 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Santa Maria Island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush landscapes, making it a great destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres • First weekend of September
Festa de São João • June 23-24
Festival de Música da Ribeira Grande • July
Pro tips
- Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the island's hidden gems
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Azorean products
- Try the local cuisine, including Cozido das Furnas and Lapas com Banana
- Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable
- Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
