São Miguel offers a wide range of nature-based activities that are sure to delight children of all ages. Explore our top activity suggestions to ensure unforgettable moments for your little adventurers on the island. Gather the family and have fun!
1 – GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT TOUR
Suitable for all ages
These boats provide a safe and comfortable ride for all ages to the islet of Vila Franca do Campo, with underwater views through a glass-bottom hull. A guide shares interesting facts about Vila Franca do Campo and helps identify marine species native to the Azores. Visitors also have the chance to swim and snorkel – equipment is included.
2 – PISCINAS DA LAGOA
Suitable for all ages
The Natural Swimming Pools of Lagoa are a well-known bathing area on São Miguel Island. The site features natural rock pools, a semi-Olympic artificial pool, children’s pools, and excellent support facilities, including a bar (serving snacks, light meals, and ice cream), a terrace, changing rooms, restrooms, and parking.
3 – MUSEU CARLOS MACHADO
Recommended for children aged 6 and up
Housed in a former convent, this museum offers eclectic exhibitions featuring historical artifacts, art, and taxidermy. Founded in 1876 and open to the public since 1880, it stands today as a public service institution dedicated to conserving, preserving, and sharing its vast and rich heritage — a foundation and expression of the identity of a people of the islands and the open sea. https://museucarlosmachado.azores.gov.pt/pt
4 – QUINTA DA PARÓDIA
Recommended for children aged 2 to 6
Guided tours and private activities for families and groups are available year-round by appointment. Children can enjoy a pony ride through the forest and around the farm. Admission is €8. More information: Click Here.
5 – CANYONING EXPERIENCE
For children aged 6 and up (minimum height: 1.20m)
This activity takes place in a true natural adventure park, where participants can enjoy jumps and rappelling. Available all year round, it’s undoubtedly an exciting and adventurous way to explore the island’s natural beauty up close!
Children receive a discount for this activity.
Info and bookings: azoresgps.com/canyoning6 – HIKING TRAILS
There are three trails recommended for children, as they include tunnels, bridges, and other elements that spark curiosity and imagination in younger explorers!
Quatro Fábricas da Luz – 2 km, approx. 90 minutes
Lagoa das Furnas – 9.5 km, approx. 3 hours
Janela do Inferno – 7.6 km, approx. 2.5 hours
7 – QUAD BIKE OR BUGGY TOUR
For children aged 7 and up
An exciting opportunity for kids to experience the thrill of off-road adventure while exploring one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Azores! This tour can be done in the morning or afternoon and lasts approximately 3.5 hours.
Children receive a discount for this activity.
Info and bookings: azoresgps.com/quad-or-buggy
Watch the video on YouTube.
8 – WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING
Suitable for all ages.
This fun and scenic boat tour is a great opportunity to cruise along the coast while searching for whales and dolphins — and uncover the best-kept secrets of Azorean marine life. A marine biologist is onboard to explain what you’re seeing and answer any questions.
Kids love watching the dolphins jump and the whales dive!
9 – PARQUE URBANO
Suitable for all ages.
This is the largest green space in Ponta Delgada. It features a walking trail that runs through the entire park, a playground for younger children, a skate track, picnic areas, and restrooms.
Cycling and dogs are welcome in the park.
Tip: Right next to the park is the restaurant Quinta dos Açores, a great spot to visit with kids. They serve delicious burgers and ice cream.
Find it on Google Maps.
10 – JET SKI TOUR
For children aged 7 and up.
Kids can also experience the thrill of exploring the Azorean seas! Some of the island’s most stunning landscapes and marine life can be seen best from the water. Jet ski tours along the island’s south coast depart from Ponta Delgada and are available in 30-, 60-, or 90-minute options.
11 – MORANGOS DOS AÇORES
Suitable for all ages.
This strawberry farm was designed to welcome visitors who love strawberries and want to learn about the growing process up close. The plants are elevated to make fruit picking easier. Upon arrival, each visitor receives a basket to collect strawberries, which are then weighed at the end of the visit, and paid by the kilo.
Bookings via WhatsApp
Watch the video on YouTube
12 – BEEKEEPING TOUR
Recommended for children aged 6 and up.
Dress like a real beekeeper and dive into the fascinating world of bees! The tour begins with a short safety briefing, followed by a visit to the hives. You’ll learn about the different types of bees, how the hive is organized, the roles bees play throughout their lives — and if you’re lucky, you might even spot the queen! The tour ends with a honey tasting.
Bookings : Click Here.
13 – PISCINAS DA RIBEIRA GRANDE
Suitable for all ages.
This is a mixed bathing area that combines three pools with a natural sandy beach. One of the pools measures 25 meters long by 20 meters wide, and there’s also a baby pool — the only one with fresh water. The facility includes a playground, changing rooms, restrooms, freshwater showers, and locker rooms.
Learn more: Natural swimming pools in São Miguel.
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