The best time to visit the Azores is from June to September: it is the driest, sunniest and warmest season (24 to 26 °C / 75 to 79 °F in the afternoon in Ponta Delgada in July and August). May and October are good compromises for hiking and prices, with more changeable weather. From November to March it is mild (17 to 18 °C / 63 to 64 °F) but it rains often and Atlantic storms can disrupt connections between the islands. These winter storms and the changeable weather weigh heavily in our comparison to choose between Madeira and the Azores, criterion by criterion.
The Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal, consists of nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, about 1500 km (932 mi) from Lisbon. The climate is oceanic and mild all year round, with no great heat or cold, but damp and very changeable: people often say you can experience « four seasons in one day » there. Here is how to choose your month, based on the official normals of IPMA, the Portuguese weather institute.
When to go to the Azores: the essentials
- Best time: June to September (driest and sunniest)
- Driest month: July, about 26 mm (1.0 in) of rain and 5 rainy days in Ponta Delgada
- Wettest month: December, about 153 mm (6.0 in) and 15 rainy days
- Hiking: May–June and September–October, cooler and less crowded
- Hydrangeas: in bloom in summer, especially from late June to August
- Whales and dolphins: can be seen all year; spring is the season for migrating great whales
- Plan ahead for: July–August (holidays, high prices) and the religious festivals of May–June
When to go depending on your priority
- Best weather: June to September; July is the driest month according to IPMA normals, August the warmest
- Cheapest: November to March (excluding the Christmas and New Year holidays), then April–May and October, if you accept more changeable weather
- Fewest crowds: November to March, at the cost of damp weather; May, September and October are good compromises, August is the busiest month
- Events: Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres festival in Ponta Delgada (May, after Easter), Holy Spirit festivals from Pentecost into summer, Sanjoaninas in Angra do Heroísmo (June), Sea Week in Horta (August); check the dates each year
Still deciding on a destination? Compare with our selection: where to go in July.
Azores: the calendar at a glance
✅ Best months: may, June, July, August, September
❌ Period to avoid: January, December
When to go to the Azores: weather month by month
| Month | Temp. max | Temp. min | Rain | Rainy days | Sunshine (h) | Crowds | Prices | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 17.5 °C (64 °F) | 12.7 °C (55 °F) | 102 mm (4.0 in) | 13 | 97 | Low | Low | ❌ Rainy, windy, rough seas |
| February | 17.4 °C (63 °F) | 12.1 °C (54 °F) | 87 mm (3.4 in) | 11 | 103 | Low | Low | ⚠️ Mild but damp, few visitors |
| March | 17.9 °C (64 °F) | 12.6 °C (55 °F) | 97 mm (3.8 in) | 12 | 120 | Low | Low | ⚠️ Rainy, very green landscapes |
| April | 18.8 °C (66 °F) | 13.3 °C (56 °F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) | 10 | 141 | Moderate (Easter) | Moderate | ⚠️ Changeable spring, good for whales |
| May | 20.2 °C (68 °F) | 14.6 °C (58 °F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) | 9 | 174 | Moderate (festivals) | Moderate | ✅ Less rain, ideal for hiking and whale watching |
| June | 22.4 °C (72 °F) | 16.8 °C (62 °F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) | 7 | 163 | Moderate to high | High | ✅ Dry, hydrangeas, long days |
| July | 24.7 °C (76 °F) | 18.9 °C (66 °F) | 26 mm (1.0 in) | 5 | 208 | High | High | ✅ Driest month, ideal |
| August | 26.0 °C (79 °F) | 19.9 °C (68 °F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 6 | 213 | Very high | Very high | ✅ Warmest month, but very busy |
| September | 25.0 °C (77 °F) | 19.1 °C (66 °F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) | 9 | 175 | Moderate | Moderate to high | ✅ Still warm, fewer people |
| October | 22.6 °C (73 °F) | 17.1 °C (63 °F) | 118 mm (4.6 in) | 14 | 142 | Moderate to low | Moderate | ⚠️ Mild, rain returns |
| November | 19.9 °C (68 °F) | 14.9 °C (59 °F) | 95 mm (3.7 in) | 12 | 109 | Low | Low | ⚠️ Rainy, very quiet |
| December | 18.3 °C (65 °F) | 13.4 °C (56 °F) | 153 mm (6.0 in) | 15 | 93 | Low | Low (except holidays) | ❌ Wettest month |
Temperatures vary little: 17.5 °C (64 °F) in the afternoon in January, 26 °C (79 °F) in August, and nights do not drop below 12 °C (54 °F) on average. What changes is the rain and sunshine: Ponta Delgada gets about 988 mm (38.9 in) of rain a year, with only 26 mm (1.0 in) in July compared with 153 mm (6.0 in) in December, and twice as many hours of sunshine in August as in December. Humidity stays high all year round.
These normals apply to Ponta Delgada, on the south coast of São Miguel, at low altitude. In the mountains, around the crater lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, or on Pico, it is cooler and wetter, and clouds often block the view, even in summer. Check the webcams and local forecast before driving up to a viewpoint.
Sea temperature month by month
In Horta, on the island of Faial, the sea stays between 15.6 and 16.4 °C (60 and 62 °F) from January to April and reaches 22 to 23 °C (72 to 73 °F) in August and September.
| Month | Horta (Faial) |
|---|---|
| January | 16.4 °C (62 °F) |
| February | 15.6 °C (60 °F) |
| March | 15.6 °C (60 °F) |
| April | 16.2 °C (61 °F) |
| May | 17.6 °C (64 °F) |
| June | 19.3 °C (67 °F) |
| July | 21.7 °C (71 °F) |
| August | 22.8 °C (73 °F) |
| September | 22.3 °C (72 °F) |
| October | 20.4 °C (69 °F) |
| November | 18.7 °C (66 °F) |
| December | 17.4 °C (63 °F) |
Island comparison: São Miguel and Faial
| Station (IPMA, 1991–2020) | January max | August max | July rain | Annual rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) | 17.5 °C (64 °F) | 26.0 °C (79 °F) | 26 mm (1.0 in) | about 988 mm (38.9 in) |
| Horta (Faial) | 16.9 °C (62 °F) | 25.8 °C (78 °F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) | about 1087 mm (42.8 in) |
The islands of the central group (Faial, Pico, São Jorge, Terceira, Graciosa) have a climate very close to São Miguel’s, slightly wetter in Horta. The western islands, Flores and Corvo, are the most exposed to Atlantic weather systems: their air and sea connections are more often disrupted in winter. Santa Maria, in the southeast, has a reputation for being the driest and sunniest island in the archipelago.
The Azores by season: pros and cons
Summer (June to September): high season
This is the most reliable period: 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F) in the afternoon, 5 to 9 rainy days a month and more than 200 hours of sunshine in July and August. Hydrangeas line the roads, the sea is at its warmest and there are the most ferry connections between the islands. On the downside, demand peaks in July and especially August: book accommodation and rental cars early.
- Pros: the most stable weather, pleasant swimming, more frequent ferries, long days
- Cons: prices and crowds peak in August, clouds may linger on the summits
- Our tip: June and September offer almost the same weather as midsummer, with fewer people
Spring (April–May) and autumn (October): the shoulder seasons
Spring is green and quiet. Rainfall drops markedly in May (61 mm (2.4 in)), temperatures climb towards 20 °C (68 °F) and it is a very good season for hiking. It is also when migrating great whales are often seen. October keeps mild temperatures (23 °C / 73 °F) but marks the return of the rain (118 mm (4.6 in)): build some slack into your plans.
- Pros: lower prices, quiet trails, whales in spring
- Cons: very changeable weather, cool sea, some ferry routes reduced
Winter (November to March): mild but damp
Afternoons reach 17 to 18 °C (63 to 64 °F), which is still mild, but it rains 11 to 15 days a month and the wind can be strong. Atlantic storms can delay flights and cancel ferries. The hot springs of Furnas and Caldeira Velha are especially enjoyable at this time of year, and prices are at their lowest.
- Pros: low prices, few tourists, hot springs, very green landscapes
- Cons: frequent rain, views often clouded over, disrupted inter-island connections
- Who is it for? A short stay on São Miguel, with a flexible schedule
When to go to the Azores depending on your plans
| Your plans | Best time | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | May–June, September–October | Slippery trails after rain, fog at altitude |
| Climbing Pico | June to September | Check access conditions at Casa da Montanha and the weather |
| Whale and dolphin watching | April to October; sperm whales all year | Trips cancelled in rough seas |
| Swimming and natural pools | July to September | The Atlantic stays cool |
| Hydrangeas in bloom | Late June to August | Flowering varies with altitude |
| Island hopping | June to September | More ferries between the central islands |
| Tight budget | April–May, October | Avoid school holidays and festivals |
Major events in the Azores
| When | Event | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| May (date varies, after Easter) | Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres festival | Ponta Delgada’s major religious festival |
| From Pentecost into summer | Holy Spirit festivals (Espírito Santo) | Celebrated on every island, centred on the « impérios » (small chapels) |
| June | Sanjoaninas | St John’s festivities in Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira) |
| August | Sea Week (Semana do Mar) | Water sports events and concerts in Horta (Faial) |
The Azores month by month
January: Mild (17.5 °C (64 °F)) but rainy: 102 mm (4.0 in) and 13 rainy days. Wind and rough seas possible.
February: Similar to January, a little less rain (87 mm (3.4 in)). Very quiet, low prices.
March: Still damp (97 mm (3.8 in)). The landscapes are very green, the trails muddy.
April: Changeable spring: 19 °C (66 °F), 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain. A good time for migrating whales.
May: Much less rain (61 mm (2.4 in)), 20 °C (68 °F). Excellent for hiking; Santo Cristo festival in Ponta Delgada.
June: 22 °C (72 °F), 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, hydrangeas. One of the best months.
July: The driest month (26 mm (1.0 in), 5 rainy days) and a sunny one. High season.
August: The warmest (26 °C (79 °F)) and sunniest month, but the most in demand. Book early.
September: Still 25 °C (77 °F), the sea at its warmest, fewer visitors. An excellent month.
October: Mild (23 °C / 73 °F), but it is the second-wettest month of the year (118 mm (4.6 in)). Good for hiking between showers.
November: 20 °C (68 °F), 95 mm (3.7 in). Quiet and green, fewer connections.
December: The wettest month (153 mm (6.0 in), 15 rainy days). Christmas atmosphere in Ponta Delgada.
When to book your trip to the Azores
For July and August, book flights, accommodation and a rental car 4 to 6 months ahead: the rental fleet is limited, especially on the smaller islands. For May, June, September and October, 2 to 3 months is usually enough. Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) is the main gateway, and many international travellers connect via Lisbon or Porto; check current routes from your home airport. If you are visiting several islands, also book SATA Air Açores inter-island flights and, in summer, the ferries between Faial, Pico and São Jorge. Why not turn a Lisbon connection into a stopover? Check the best time to visit Lisbon before finalising your flights.
Practical tips for planning your trip to the Azores
- Entry requirements: the Azores are part of Portugal and the Schengen area. US citizens (travel.state.gov, page updated December 11, 2025) may enter for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa, with a passport valid at least three months beyond the stay, proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket. UK citizens (GOV.UK, updated 11 August 2026) can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa; their passport must have been issued less than 10 years before arrival and be valid at least 3 months after leaving the Schengen area. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) now records fingerprints and a photo at first entry (free).
- Time difference: the Azores are 1 hour behind London and Lisbon all year round, and usually 4 hours ahead of New York. To get around between lakes and viewpoints, book early in summer: our guide to renting a car in the Azores explains the conditions.
- Currency: the euro.
- Health: for vaccines, GOV.UK refers to TravelHealthPro’s Portugal guide and travel.state.gov advises being up to date on all CDC-recommended vaccinations. Take out travel insurance that covers medical costs; UK residents can also use a GHIC or a valid EHIC.
To plan your stay, see our Azores travel guide. To compare with the rest of the country and Portugal’s other archipelago, see the best time to visit Portugal and the best time to visit Madeira.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit the Azores?
June and September offer the best balance: 22 to 25 °C (72 to 77 °F) in the afternoon, little rain and fewer people than in July and August. July is the driest month according to IPMA normals.
What is the rainy season in the Azores?
It rains all year round, but mostly from October to March. In Ponta Delgada, December is the wettest month (153 mm / 6.0 in, 15 rainy days) and July the driest (26 mm / 1.0 in).
Is it hot in the Azores in summer?
It is warm rather than hot: about 25 to 26 °C (77 to 79 °F) in the afternoon in August in Ponta Delgada and 19 to 20 °C (66 to 68 °F) at night, with high humidity.
Can you swim in the Azores?
Yes, especially from July to September, in the sea or in natural pools carved into the lava. The Atlantic stays cool and currents can be strong: follow the beach flags.
When can you see whales in the Azores?
Sperm whales are present all year. Spring is the season for migrating great whales. Most trips run from April to October and are cancelled in rough seas.
Are the Azores worth visiting in winter?
For a short stay on São Miguel with hot springs and low prices, yes, provided you accept the rain and keep a flexible schedule. For hiking and visiting several islands, choose May to October.
Our sources
- Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA): 1991–2020 normals for the Ponta Delgada station (Afonso Chaves observatory); 1991–2020 normals for Horta
- NOAA: sunshine in Ponta Delgada (1961–1990)
- Entry requirements, health and safety checked on 24 October 2026: U.S. Department of State, Portugal country information (last updated December 11, 2025) and UK FCDO, GOV.UK foreign travel advice for Portugal (updated 11 August 2026).
- Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD), Klimatafel for Horta (Faial): average sea water temperature
- Our methodology
Updated October 2026.
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