Weather
August is the warmest month in the Azores, with an average daytime high of 78ºF (25ºC) and an average nighttime low of 66ºF (19ºC). Rainfall is also at its lowest, with an expected 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain throughout the month. Ocean temperatures are nearing their peak and sit between 73ºF and 74ºF (23ºC), allowing you to swim, surf, and snorkel without a wetsuit. Even so, the Azores are known for their variable weather, so you'll want to be prepared for an occasional rain shower or foggy day.
Crowds & Costs
Along with July, August is the busiest time of the year in the Azores. The nearly empty hotels of winter have filled up, and across all islands, you'll find visitors out enjoying the splendid nature. Prices for accommodation and activities are higher than in other seasons, and you can expect to pay between $150 to $200 a night for a four-star hotel.
It's also worth keeping in mind that the Azorean government has measures to prevent overtourism. This means there's a limited amount of accommodation, especially on the smaller islands of Graciosa, Flores, and Santa Maria, so it's best to book early to avoid missing out. However, in return, the Azores never become overcrowded, and you'll always be able to find quiet beaches and empty trails off the main tourist path.
Where to Go
Public transportation in the Azores is limited, even on the main island of São Miguel, so renting a car is recommended. However, there are seemingly endless beautiful trails, volcanic landscapes, and hidden beaches to visit. On a self-drive São Miguel trip, you can head to the island's western side, where you'll find Sete Cidades, a stunning lake in the crater of a dormant volcano, and Ponta da Ferraria, a hot spring in the Atlantic Ocean.
In the center of São Miguel, Furnas Valley is a favorite in the winter for its hot springs. Still, even in August, it's a beautiful place to visit for the picturesque Terra Nostra Garden, Furnas Lagoon, and the more isolated Lagoa do Congro. While on São Miguel, it's also worth making a day trip out to Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, an inlet off the coast known for its world-class snorkeling.
With frequent ferry and flight schedules, August is also a great time to visit the central islands of the Azores. On a 15-day island hopping itinerary, you can visit Pico Island, known for being the home of Portugal's highest mountain, Mount Pico, and the impressive Gruta das Torres Cave. Then, sail over to Terceira Island and base yourself in the UNESCO-listed town of Angra do Heroísmo. From Angra, you can soak up the sun at the island's beautiful beaches of Praia da Vitória and Praia da Riviera, and hike Furnas do Enoxfre, a volcanic park.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
August is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the many water activities on offer on the Azores Islands. Quiet seas are ideal for heading out on a whale watching tour from Ponta Delgada, swimming in the cliff-surrounded bay of Caloura, and searching for biscoitos, swimming holes formed by cooling volcanic basalt along the coast. You can also enjoy water activities inland. Head to Sete Cidades to kayak across a volcanic lake and Caldeira Velha to swim in geothermal waters surrounded by the lush jungle.
If you prefer to stay dry, August is a great time to head out on sunrise and sunset hikes. For the ultimate challenge, hike to the summit of Mount Pico, sitting at 7,713 feet (2,351 m) above sea level, or opt for one of the many scenic trails around its base. Also on Pico Island, the 8-mile (13 km) Trilho das Vinhas de Criação Velha loop trail brings you through vineyards and along scenic coastlines. On São Miguel, hike around Sete Cidades lake or through the eucalyptus forests near Lagoa do Fogo.
Besides hiking, swimming, and kayaking, August is a great time to relax by the pool at your accommodation or head into town for a bit of shopping and dining. The Azores are known for their delicious seafood, and you could easily spend a day hopping between São Miguel's beaches of Caloura, Pópulo, or Baixa d'Areia, then indulging in fresh seafood and exotic fruits at one of the nearby restaurants. Afterward, head into Ponta Delgada to enjoy the town's vibrant nightlife, and cozy taverns tucked off cobblestone streets.
Events in August
Mare de Agosto, Santa Maria Island. Also known as the "August Tide Festival," the Mare de Agosto is one of the most famous festivals in the Azores. Each year around the third weekend of August, young adults take over Santa Maria to attend big-name concerts and participate in unique cultural activities.
Semano do Mar, Faial Island. Translated to "Week of the Sea," Semano do Maro is actually 10 days of concerts, parties, and street food. Five stages are placed along the bay of Horta, and the town also hosts unique cultural and folklore events, all celebrating the sea.
Traveling to The Azores in August? Check out these great itineraries
Azores Adventure: Best of São Miguel - 7 Days. In just one week, visit the highlights and hidden gems of São Miguel while basing yourself in Ponta Delgada. Soak up the sun, snorkel the crystal clear waters of Vila Franco do Camp islet, and hike and cycle through the lush jungle.
Portugal: The Azores, Lisbon & Porto - 14 Days. Take two weeks to experience Portugal's scenery, history, food, and wine of Lisbon and Porto, including Évora, Coimbra, and the Douro Valley. First, begin with three days in the Azores on the green isle of São Miguel, exploring Ponta Delgada and its surrounds.
More Helpful Information
The Azores in July
The Azores in September
Best Time of Year to Visit the Azores
How Many Days to Spend in the Azores