July is the most popular and one of the best months to visit the Azores. Summer is in full swing, and temperatures range from the mid-60s (Fahrenheit) to the mid-70s. Top that with limited rainfall, light winds, and 14 hours of daylight, and you'll have plenty of time to hike, kayak, and swim your way around the islands. Accommodation prices will be higher than in winter, but as the Azores rarely get crowded, you can enjoy quiet beaches and empty trails if you head away from the main tourist spots.

Weather

It's nearly impossible to beat the Azores' weather in July, with pleasant highs around 76°F (24°C), nighttime temperatures around 65°F (18°C), and limited rainfall across all islands. On average, July sees 233 hours of sunshine throughout the month, meaning you can look forward to mainly sunny days with only the occasional rain shower or cloudy day.

July also sees sea temperatures reach 72°F (22°C), and with only light winds, it's a great month to enjoy water activities or relaxing days at the beach. Be sure to pack along sunscreen and protective clothing, as the high UV index can cause sunburn, as well as rain gear for the occasional wet day. Overall, July has near-perfect weather for spending days sunbathing and hiking.

Crowds & Costs

Along with August, July is considered the peak season in the Azores. Accommodation prices will be at their highest, activities can book out weeks in advance, and you'll want to reserve a table if you have a specific restaurant in mind. Even so, the Azores do not get the overwhelming summer crowds like other European destinations, and you'll easily be able to find off-the-beaten-path empty beaches and quiet trails. Flights and ferries are also running frequently, allowing easier access to the less visited islands of Faial and Pico.

Where to Go

July is the perfect time to island hop between the main islands of São Miguel and Terceira while including side trips to Pico and Faial islands. If you have eight days to explore, opt for a self-drive tour of São Miguel and Terceira. You can spend time in the Azores' largest town of Ponta Delgada, visit the geothermal wonderland of Furnas, and wander the vibrant streets of the UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo. Another must-visit location on São Miguel is the Sete Cidades Lagoon, a picturesque lagoon located inside a massive volcanic crater.

If you have a little over two weeks to explore, a 15-day island-hopping itinerary includes a trip to Pico Island, which is filled with incredible hikes and picturesque vineyards. With Madalena as your base, tour the island, stop by Cella Bar, visit the Whale Industry Museum in São Roque do Pico, and explore the magnificent 3 miles (5 km) long lava tubes of Gruta das Torres Cave.

July is also a great month to visit the tiny island of Faial, which is a mere 13 miles long (21 km) and can be explored in a day. Spend a night in Horta, wander Old Town, and ponder the impressive volcanic landscapes of Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo and Capelinhos Volcano.

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What to Do

Whether you prefer to spend days relaxing at the beach, shopping along cobblestone streets, or hiking through lush jungle, July is a great month to visit. On the green island of São Miguel, nature lovers can trek around or kayak in Sete Cidades Lagoon and the hidden gem of Lagoa do Congro near Furnas. Then hop aboard a dingy to visit Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo and snorkel in crystal clear waters, or embark on a canyoning adventure in Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park, known for its beautiful waterfalls.

Over on Pico Island, those brave enough can tackle the climb up Mount Pico, Portugal's highest mountain, then spend an afternoon whale watching at Vigia da Queimada. Hiking the Trilho das Vinhas de Criação Velha trail is another popular activity in July. However, you're likely to see more tourists on this beautiful trail that takes you from vineyards to the coastline.

If you're looking for a more relaxing vacation, July is ideal for beach hopping. On Terceira Island, Praia da Vitória and Praia da Riviera have the perfect mix of seclusion and amenities, while Areias de Santa Bárbara beach on São Miguel is a beautiful spot to watch surfers. Also, on São Miguel, the popular beaches of Caloura, Pópulo, or Baixa d'Areia are ideal for spending an entire afternoon between the sand and the water and indulging at one of the nearby seafood restaurants.

Events in July

Walk and Talk Arts Festival, São Miguel. Over 10 days in July, São Miguel welcomes up-and-coming artists to display their creations in celebration of the Azores' customs, traditions, and future goals.

Festival of Saint Mary Magdalene, Pico Island. Every year on July 22, in and around the 17th-century Igreja de Santa Maria Madalena church, a religious procession and ceremonies occur. The normally quiet Pico Island comes to life with festivities, and locals from other islands visit to pay their respects to St. Mary Magdalene.

Traveling to The Azores in July? Check out these great itineraries

Self-Drive Azores Adventure: São Miguel & Terceira - 8 Days. Spend your days between São Miguel and Terceira, exploring volcanic landscapes and roaming the beautiful streets of Angra do Heroísmo and Ponta Delgada.

Island Hopping in the Azores: São Miguel, Faial, Pico & Terceira - 15 Days. Hop between four islands, hike Mount Pico, swim in natural pools and explore otherworldly geothermal landscapes on this nature-filled itinerary.

More Helpful Information

The Azores in June
The Azores in August
Best Time of Year to Visit the Azores
How Many Days to Spend in the Azores