10 things to do on Faial Island, in the Azores

Faial Island belongs to the Central Group of the Azores Archipelago, with its only city being Horta. It is known as the Blue Island and is home to the Azorean Parliament.

Horta’s port is also renowned for its significant role as a hub in maritime and air (seaplane) connections, as well as a submarine cable link in the North Atlantic. It’s a common stopover for many yachts on their voyages between the American continent and Europe.

When choosing a vacation destination like Faial Island, there are several suggestions for places to visit, points of interest, and activities you can engage in during your stay. These can make a significant difference in your vacation on the Blue Island.

#1 Explore the ocean floor on a glass-bottom boat.

Certainly, this is a unique way to get to know the marine depths of Faial. Through a glass-bottom boat, you can observe the surrounding underwater environment, all from the comfort of the boat. This experience is offered by Ocean Eye, where for an hour and a half, accompanied by marine biologists, you can observe marine life, oceanic flora, and marine geology.

There will also be opportunities to pass through coastal caves and, depending on the weather conditions, a dive into the open Atlantic Ocean.

#2 Savor the famous gin at Peter Café Sport.

Peter Café Sport is a landmark in the history of Faial Island. In the past, sailors would come here to have their warm meal after months at sea, and of course, the gin and tonic. The interior of this establishment is adorned with various decorations left by sailors from all over the world who have passed through, making it a meeting point and a place filled with countless memories.

#3 Swim with sharks

A thrilling adventure during your vacation is undoubtedly swimming side by side with sharks. In this case, you’ll be swimming with blue sharks and makos, species that are harmless to humans. Shark diving is an activity offered by the company Norberto Diver, and it’s an emerging attraction that has been drawing numerous tourists.

To partake in this activity, you must have a diving license and adhere to the rules set by the organization. Touching the animals is prohibited. If you feel uncertain or intimidated during the dive, the guide will provide you with tips on how to feel more secure.

#4 Tour by Jeep, Mountain Bike (BTT), or KartCross.

Nothing adds a touch of adrenaline to your visit to Faial Island like an all-terrain Jeep ride, passing through the island’s most iconic spots such as Porto Comprido, Praia do Almoxarife, the Varadouro pools, Fajã beach, and the old Salão Whaling Port.

For those who prefer a direct connection with nature, the mountain bike (BTT) option allows you to traverse the official BTT circuit in the Capelo Forest Park. You also have the option to customize your bike ride. Many tourists choose the route from Caldeira to Capelinhos.

Additionally, for a direct connection with nature combined with a dose of adrenaline, you can also opt for a KartCross ride.

These three services can be easily booked through the company Casas d’Ávilas.

#5 Discover the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center and its history.

The last historical eruption on Faial Island at Capelinhos began in 1957. This event led to the island expanding by two kilometers, completely destroying the neighboring villages. This historical period of Faial Island can be explored at the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center, which opened its doors in 2008. It is one of the most visited museums throughout the archipelago.

In this venue, visitors can interactively relive the phenomena that led to the formation of the Azores Archipelago.

Additionally, you can also visit the Marine Interpretation Center, where, for instance, you can enjoy a virtual journey through the coastal and oceanic environments of the Azores.

#6 Hiking Trails

There’s no better way to explore an island than through its fantastic hiking trails, and Faial Island has excellent choices. You can cross the island on foot using the Coast to Coast Trail, where you’ll pass by various volcanic cones, craters, fumaroles, and caves. These spots are undoubtedly mysterious and characteristic of the stunning volcanic landscapes of the Azores. You can also check the list of existing and well-marked hiking trails on the Azores Trails website.

#7 See and Hear Whales.

Although whaling is prohibited in Faial, the whaling tradition is very much alive through its old lookout posts scattered across the island. Eyes remain vigilant, searching for whales in the vast Atlantic Ocean. This search isn’t for hunting, as it was for several centuries, but to locate and approach these majestic creatures to see and hear them up close.

In total, about 27 species of cetaceans can be spotted in the Azores (1/3 of the total species that exist globally). You can find available companies and more information about Cetacean Watching on this link.

#8 Descend into the caldera.

The caldera sits at an altitude of over a thousand meters and is awe-inspiring due to its size. This massive crater, formed over 500,000 years ago, has a diameter of two kilometers and is about 500 meters deep. Its last eruption took place 1,200 years ago.

Visiting the caldera isn’t unrestricted; you’ll need to make an advance booking for your tour, and the presence of a certified guide is also required. Up to 3 descents are made per day, with a maximum of 12 people per visit. For this excursion, you can also contact Casa D’Ávilas.

#9 Visit Porto Pim Beach.

This bay has a volcanic origin and is the main bathing area of the island. It is located next to Monte da Guia and Queimado, making it a paradisiacal beach with fine black sand and very calm waters. It’s excellent for those wishing to swim in the open sea with very few or almost no waves.

#10 Taste and enjoy homemade infusion as well as a fish meal at Genuíno.

At “A Casa”, located in the historic center of Horta, you can savor various aromatic herb infusions, whether in bread, homemade cakes, or cocktails. Don’t miss out on trying the gin with homemade lime syrup, pineapple, and sage.

When visiting Faial Island, it’s a must to try a fish meal. We suggest a visit to the Genuíno Restaurant. Its owner, Genuíno Madruga, is a former fisherman and well-known sailor who has circumnavigated the globe twice. Fresh fish chosen by someone who knows the Azorean seas like no other.

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These are just 10 of the many activities you can enjoy during your stay on Faial Island. Book your trip and accommodation and come explore the Blue Island with your friends and family.