The Azores belongs to Portugal and is an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean and consists of 9 inhabited islands and 8 uninhabited islands. All islands were once created by volcanic activity. On the island of Pico is the highest volcano.
The best thing about the weather in the Azores is that due to the mild temperatures throughout the year, there is no "low season". According to the locals, you can experience all four seasons in one day in the Azores, so it's best to be prepared for anything when you head out. Our advice is to bring a light jacket, umbrella, sunglasses and SPF sunscreen when visiting the Azores. You may need them all at some point.
Because of its unique location on the Gulf Stream, the Azores has a mild subtropical climate year-round with mild air and ocean temperatures. Temperatures are around 24ºC in summer and 14ºC in winter. The sea temperature in summer is a pleasant 25ºC. In the winter period the sea does not get colder than 17ºC.
What is also useful to know is that the islands have different microclimates. This depends on whether you are on top of a mountain or by the sea. Take this into account when you're out for the day by wearing multiple layers of clothing.
The largest island is São Miguel and has beautiful crater lakes. On Santa Maria you will find white beaches and the sea water temperature is pleasant for a nice vacation. Dolphins and whales jumping out of the water welcome you around the islands of São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Terceira and Graciosa. Head to Flores to visit natural waterfalls and volcanic lakes. Finally, on the small island of Corvo, you have a volcanic crater that attracts various bird species from Europe and America.
Best time to visit Azores
The best time to travel differs per island from Azores. View the best travel months for:
The Azores are a group of stunningly beautiful islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Because of their remote location, the Azores are often overlooked as a travel destination. However, those who take the time to visit these islands will be rewarded with amazing volcanic landscapes, green forests and friendly people. The best time to visit the Azores depends on what you want to see and do there.
Best time for outdoor activities
If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the ideal times to go. The weather is milder during these times of year, making conditions more pleasant for exploring the islands. Rain does occur frequently in the Azores, so be sure to bring a raincoat.
If you are looking for opportunities to relax and enjoy island life, summer is the best time to travel to the Azores. At this time of year, the islands are packed with tourists from all over Europe who come to escape the heat and enjoy the beautiful views.
The Azores are one of the world's best locations for whale watching. You can see sperm whales, humpback whales and dolphins all year round. However, the best time to see them is between June and September. This is when they are most active and you are more likely to see them. Whale watching tours leave from all over the Azores, so you don't have to go far to find one. No matter what time of year you visit, you are sure to have a great experience in the Azores. These unique islands offer something for everyone. From adventurous travelers looking for outdoor adventure, to those who just want to relax and enjoy the sun.
In the table below you can quickly check the average weather per month in the Azores, the temperature per month or the period with the highest precipitation. Monthly average climate data is based on data from the last 30 years.
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The climate of the Azores is classified as subtropical and is best described as mild and humid. The average temperature is 20 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The Azores has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.
Spring (March-May)
Spring in the Azores is characterized by mild temperatures and occasional showers. This is the time of year when most of the islands' vegetation comes to life, so it is a great time to hike and discover all this beauty. The average temperature at this time of year is 16-18 degrees Celsius.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is the hottest season in the Azores and the best time to visit the Azores if you are looking for warm weather. With average temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius, it is the perfect time is to go to the beach or take a dip in one of the island's many hot springs. It is also not uncommon for temperatures to exceed 30 degrees Celsius, especially in July and August.
Autumn is a transitional period in the Azores, with temperatures cooling but remaining mild. This is still a good time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities, as rain falls during this season, but not too much. Average temperatures in autumn range from 18-22 degrees Celsius.
Winter (December-February)
Winter is the coolest time of year in the Azores, with average temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius. However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below 10 degrees Celsius. Winter also has more days with rain than any other season.
What is the average Azores weather like in a given month? Let's find out! Click on a month to check all the monthly averages for sunshine, temperature highs and lows, percentage chance of rain per day, snowfall accumulation and number of rainy days.
The weather for Azores over the next 14 days will be 13°C till 17° with a few days chance of light rain showers or even quite a bit of rain. The water temperature will be 16°C.
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19°C
17°C
