Captain’s Lagoon – Pico Island

Captain’s Lagoon is located in the municipality of São Roque do Pico, on Pico Island. This lagoon is the largest on the island and is formed by an extremely beautiful landscape. Captain’s Lagoon has calm waters and is surrounded by lush green scenery, with Mount Pico in the background.

Due to its altitude, it offers a privileged view of Pico Island and the neighboring São Jorge Island. It is a very popular spot on the island, attracting many tourists year-round.

History of Captain’s Lagoon

Captain’s Lagoon is the most well-known lagoon on Pico Island. After Mount Pico and the beaches, the lagoon is one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island.

It is situated at about 826 meters above sea level and is the largest lagoon on Pico Island. Its surroundings are rich in endemic vegetation from the Macaronesian region, with various species, especially cedar, laurel, and vinhático.

(C) José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha e Costa

Access to Captain’s Lagoon

Access to Captain’s Lagoon can be made from São Roque, Lajes, or Madalena. The path is easily accessible and well-equipped, with informative signs indicating the way to the lagoon.

Location on the Map

Hiking Trail

For adventure lovers, there are several hiking trails that pass by Captain’s Lagoon, leading visitors to explore more of the area.

The trail to Captain’s Lagoon begins in the Central Plateau of Pico and has a medium difficulty level. The route leads to Captain’s Lagoon and other unique natural spaces in the region.

During the hike, visitors have the opportunity to observe the natural habitat of various unique species in this region, such as the conchelo-do-mato, daisies, and the captain’s herb. They are also privileged with a stunning view of the village of São Roque do Pico, São Jorge Island, and Mount Pico reflecting in Captain’s Lagoon.

(C) Pedro Silva

The hiking trail ends near the Franciscan Convent of São Pedro de Alcântara, an 18th-century building that has been restored and is now the Youth Hostel.

For the hike, it is recommended to use appropriate equipment, such as:

• Appropriate hiking shoes;
• Comfortable clothing;
• Hat;
• Sunblock;
• Water;
• Food;

Privileged View of Mount Pico

(C) Pedro Silva

One of the main attractions of this lagoon is Mount Pico, which can be observed from the lagoon. It is impressive to see it from there, and at certain times of the day, it is possible to see its reflection in the water of Captain’s Lagoon.

Many visitors stop by the lagoon specifically to ensure they don’t leave the island without a photo of themselves alongside Mount Pico reflected in the lagoon’s waters, a memory that should not be missed. Just a tip!

Curiosities

The fauna and flora of Captain’s Lagoon are quite interesting, so here are some notable facts about it:

• Near Captain’s Lagoon, you can also find Cabeço do Teixo, an elevation of about 894 meters in altitude, and several streams, such as Ribeira de Dentro, Ribeira da Laje, and Ribeira Seca.
• As hunting is prohibited in the lagoon and its hydrographic basin, at certain times of the year, it is possible to observe some rare aquatic and terrestrial species unique to the region.
• In the region of Captain’s Lagoon, between February and June, it is possible to observe the galinhola at sunset, a unique bird species in the Azores that appears at dusk and during the night.

Photos

(C) Pedro Silva

(C) Pedro Silva

Video

Captain’s Lagoon possesses a typical Azorean beauty and unique flora and fauna in the region. It is one of the most visited lagoons on Pico Island. The beauty of the lagoon, along with its surroundings and the stunning natural landscape that can be observed from the lagoon, leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.