Essential information
Flights:
Several flights a day leave from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada with low cost airlines. Watch out with the weight of the board bags, with Ryanair maximum is 23kg and with Easyjet 32kgs.
Car rental:
This one is not so cheap, but considering the relatively inexpensive price of the flight, that helps offset the extra cost. A car is essential to enjoy the island, discover every corner and always enjoy being in the right place at the right moment.
Season:
In Winter time the predominant swell is North, in Summer time the South. Wind can be unpredictable; the best bet is to go with the forecast checked, waiting for windguru to be red before going.
Where to sleep:
There are rental houses, b&b’s and hotels to suit all tastes and prices. Our favourite area for relaxation was the south, near Caloura. To be in town, near the highway, to quickly drive to where you want to visit (or for chasing the wind and waves!), the best is Ponta Delgada. Ribeira Grande is also a very good choice, next to surf spots in the North and very well connected, it is the second largest city in the island; in the past it was the capital, with lovely facades and city streets.
Not to miss!
The boilers! – Ferrarias and Caldeira Velha were our favourites.
Temperatures:
From spring, the weather is good, but take your shorty. The temperatures can feel quite fresh, especially in the craters and lagoons. However, the advantage of not going in summer is very interesting; you’ll enjoy amazing rides around places without any tourists!
Good and cheap food:
Quinta de Açores is something like a local McDonald’s, but only organic and quality ingredients, and a thousand times better! Or you can try the TukáTulá, to eat right in front of the Santa Barbara surf spot. And also go to any local bar where fish, meat and cheese will always be a good choice.