Tucked away in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are a chain of volcanic islands known for their dramatic scenery, crater lakes, and rugged coastlines. São Miguel, the largest of the group, offers endless opportunities for landscape photography with its unique mix of mountains, waterfalls, and seaside cliffs. During my time exploring the island, I quickly realized that every bend in the road seemed to reveal a new view worth capturing.
The weather on São Miguel can be unpredictable. While the coast often stays clear, the higher regions where the lagoons lie are easily covered by mist. My best advice is to make the most of any clear day by heading straight for the mountain viewpoints—you never know when the fog will roll in again. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore, as most lookout points and trails are well connected by good roads.
Here are some of the most photogenic spots across São Miguel Island:
Sete Cidades
This volcanic caldera is home to some of the island’s most iconic landscapes.
- Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: Perhaps the most famous viewpoint on São Miguel, offering sweeping vistas of crater lakes framed by rolling green hills. Access is limited by gates that open only at certain hours, so arriving early is key.
- Lagoa do Canário: Just nearby, this peaceful lagoon is worth a stop for its serene forest setting.
- Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras: From here you can photograph both Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, with the narrow bridge dividing them.
- Miradouro da Vista do Rei: Another excellent perspective over the twin lakes, with the ruins of an abandoned hotel adding a touch of mystery.
- Walking around Lagoa Verde: A slower pace allows you to take in the still waters, abundant birdlife, and the calming quiet of the crater floor.
Hidden Lagoons and Trails
On the road toward Sete Cidades, you’ll find smaller lakes that are less visited but equally captivating. Lagoa das Empadadas and Lagoa Rasa both sit in tranquil forest clearings, while the hike around Lagoa das Éguas rewards you with sweeping views across the island’s central highlands.
Mosteiros
The western coast near Mosteiros is perfect for moody seascapes. The jagged rocks offshore make striking silhouettes at sunset, and Ponta do Castelo is a particularly atmospheric spot for early-morning light.
Lagoa do Fogo
Known as the “Lake of Fire,” this crater lake is a favorite among photographers.
- Miradouro da Barrosa: A breathtaking sunrise location, though it can be windy and cold.
- Pico da Barrosa and the antenna ridge: A short climb rewards you with one of the most expansive views of Lagoa do Fogo. It’s also one of the few places where you can enjoy total stillness.
- Viewpoints along the rim: Each angle offers a different mood, from misty reflections to wide-open skies.
- The crater hike: Descending to the lake’s shoreline is one of the most memorable experiences on São Miguel. The trail is steep but manageable, and once you reach the bottom, the scenery is extraordinary.
Lagoa do Congro
This emerald-green lagoon is hidden deep in the forest. A shaded path leads you down to the water, where the steep crater walls and reflections create a magical atmosphere.
Furnas
Furnas is famous for its geothermal activity, but it’s also a dream for photographers.
- Miradouro do Pico do Ferro: A panoramic viewpoint that captures both Lagoa das Furnas and the village below. Morning light spilling over the valley makes it especially beautiful.
- Caldeiras das Furnas: The steaming hot springs in the village remind you of the island’s volcanic energy.
- Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitórias and nearby gardens: A gothic-style chapel and lush gardens provide a softer, almost romantic subject for your lens.
Eastern Coast Lookouts
- Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego: A well-kept garden overlooking dramatic cliffs and the endless Atlantic.
- Miradouro de Santa Iria: A favorite sunrise spot where the coastline stretches in layered shades of green and blue.
- Miradouro do Cintrão: Not far from Santa Iria, this viewpoint reveals towering cliffs with sheer drops into the ocean.
Vila Franca do Campo
Just offshore sits a small volcanic islet shaped like a natural amphitheater. In summer, boats ferry visitors across, but even from the mainland, the islet makes a striking subject—especially from above if you’re flying a drone.
São Miguel is a place where light, clouds, and landscape combine to create constantly shifting scenes. Whether you’re standing on a crater rim at sunrise, hiking through a quiet forest, or watching waves crash against the cliffs, the island offers endless inspiration for photographers.
