The moment my plane touched down in Ponta Delgada, I knew I had made the right decision. The Azores had been on my mind for years—a destination that felt just remote enough to be an adventure, yet welcoming enough for a solo traveler like myself. As a woman in her 30s, I wanted a mix of nature, good food, and slow, meaningful exploration. And let me tell you, this island delivered.
A Place That Feels Like a Secret
I arrived in late May, and the weather was perfect—mild, with temperatures hovering between 17°C and 22°C (63°F-72°F). The island was alive with green hills, volcanic peaks, and the scent of salt in the air. The best part? No overwhelming crowds. This was not your typical tourist-packed European destination. Instead, it felt like a secret whispered among those who seek something wilder, untouched.
Mornings with the Ocean
My mornings started with a walk along the Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, the main waterfront boulevard in Ponta Delgada. The ocean stretched endlessly before me, dark blue and powerful, and the scent of freshly baked pastéis de nata from local bakeries filled the air. I found a café tucked away near the harbor—A Tasca, a local favorite—and enjoyed a strong espresso paired with a buttery, flaky pastry.
The city itself is a blend of old and new. Churches from the 16th century, cobblestone streets, and whitewashed buildings with volcanic stone trim give it a timeless beauty. But as charming as Ponta Delgada is, I was itching to explore beyond the city limits.
Nature’s Masterpiece: Sete Cidades & Beyond
On my second day, I rented a small car (highly recommended for solo travelers) and drove to Sete Cidades, the legendary twin crater lakes—one emerald green, the other sapphire blue. No photo can ever truly capture the moment you first see them from the Miradouro da Boca do Inferno. It’s a view that makes your heart stop for just a second, reminding you how small you are in the grand scheme of things.
Another drive took me to Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake shrouded in mist, where I hiked down to the shore, feeling like I had the whole place to myself. The Azores are a hiker’s dream—endless trails, dramatic cliffs, and always, always the ocean in the distance.
Soaking in Thermal Waters
If there’s one thing I will never forget, it’s my visit to Furnas. This geothermal wonderland is like stepping onto another planet. The air smells of sulfur, and steam rises from the earth like nature itself is exhaling. I spent the afternoon soaking in the Terra Nostra hot springs, surrounded by lush botanical gardens that felt almost prehistoric. My skin had never felt softer.
Nearby, I tried the island’s famous Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. The flavors were rich and earthy—a true taste of the Azores.
Beach Days & Ocean Bliss
I wasn’t expecting great beaches, but the Azores surprised me. Praia de Santa Bárbara, on the island’s north coast, became my sanctuary. Black volcanic sand, crashing waves, and a laid-back surf vibe—it was the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon. The Atlantic here isn’t warm like the Caribbean, but the refreshing chill made every swim exhilarating.
For something more secluded, Praia dos Mosteiros was a dream. The dramatic rock formations jutting out of the water at sunset made me feel like I had stumbled into a postcard.
A Taste of the Azores
Every meal was an experience. One night, I dined at Cais 20, a seafood paradise where I feasted on grilled limpets, fresh tuna steak, and a glass of crisp white wine from the island’s own vineyards. Another evening, I found myself at Reserva Bar, sipping Azorean craft beer with fellow travelers, sharing stories under the warm glow of fairy lights.
Desserts here are dangerously good. I lost count of how many Queijadas da Vila, small cinnamon-tinged pastries, I devoured throughout the week. And the pineapple from Plantação de Ananás, the island’s famous pineapple farm, was unlike any I’d ever tasted—intensely sweet, almost caramelized in flavor.
Is Ponta Delgada Safe for Solo Travelers?
Absolutely. Not once did I feel uneasy, even walking alone at night. The locals are warm, welcoming, and genuinely happy to share their island with visitors. Public transportation is reliable, and renting a car felt completely safe. Of course, like anywhere, basic travel precautions apply—keep an eye on your belongings and trust your instincts.
Daily Budget (Excluding Flight & Accommodation)
- Food & Drinks: €25-€50 ($37-$74 CAD)
- Car Rental & Gas: €30-€40 ($45-$60 CAD)
- Activities & Attractions: €10-€25 ($15-$37 CAD)
- Miscellaneous (Souvenirs, snacks, coffee): €10 ($15 CAD)
Total: Approx. €75-€125 per day ($110-$185 CAD)
Final Thoughts: The Island That Stole My Heart
Seven days felt like a tease. I could have stayed for weeks, losing myself in volcanic trails, ocean breezes, and the rhythm of island life. Ponta Delgada and the Azores left me breathless in the best way possible. As I boarded my flight back to Montreal, I knew one thing for certain—I would be back.
