The mildness of the temperatures
The coldest month is February, although temperatures rarely fall below 15°C, although they can drop as low as 5°C at higher altitudes. Summer temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C on the coast. Finally, with the warm arm of the Gulf Stream crossing the archipelago, seawater temperatures oscillate between 16°C in winter and 23°C in summer. From October to April, rain is frequent, but is often followed by superb sunshine, and the weather is generally mild. Fog can be persistent on the higher ground, and the strong winds sometimes even prevent planes from taking off or boats from setting sail. From May to September, the weather is more stable, the heat is never stifling and the water is very pleasant, but don't be fooled: the peaks can be just as misty and the wind powerful.
Many microclimates
Each island has its own climate and microclimates. In the fajãs or at altitude, the weather is not the same as on the coast. It's not uncommon, for example, for Ponta do Pico to be shrouded in clouds, while the weather is radiant by the sea. In fact, even though weather conditions can be more uncertain in winter, it's still possible to hike somewhere in a T-shirt in the middle of January! As for the light, it's truly spectacular, especially when the sun suddenly breaks through a bank of clouds, illuminating lakes and valleys with a mysterious glow: photographers have a field day! Santa Maria and Sao Miguel are the sunniest islands. Flores and Corvo are the wettest.
To adapt to the sometimes capricious and often highly variable weather conditions from one end of the islands to the other, two websites (also available as applications) are your allies: SpotAzores (www.spotazores.com/) and Windy (www.windy.com). On the former, cameras placed at strategic points around the islands show you live weather updates for most sites of interest! The latter provides weather forecasts, based on your geolocation or points of interest, with a few webcams to check the weather live. Completely free to use, these sites and applications work on all the islands of the archipelago, allowing you to adapt your day's program and only travel if you're sure it's worth it.
A humidity level of 80%
As a result of this high rate, an abundant flora. In spring and summer, camellias, hydrangeas, azaleas and other flowers colour the archipelago with a thousand and one colours. So rain is not all bad luck! It is also thanks to this water that the lakes, waterfalls and springs are so sumptuous. Almost all year round, the Azores form nine symphonies of intoxicating colours and aromas. The green hills stand side by side with splayed volcanoes, the dense forests enshroud peaceful lakes, the banks full of subtle fragrances open onto a lava flow frozen in a dark basalt tongue. Fertile plains and distant mountains, misty volcanoes and clear cities: at every moment, the senses are awakened.
A climate conducive to swimming
With mild temperatures throughout the year, it is almost possible to swim from January to December. The ocean is neither too hot nor too cold and especially the natural swimming pools are a pure joy to wade and cool down. These, formed by basins that the ocean tides come to fill, constitute an unusual and picturesque setting, cleverly arranged by the premises (ladders, easy access ...). On São Miguel, Terceira and Santa Maria especially, but also on the other islands, the black sand beaches also have their charm and originality. There are also the lakes, in short: water will delight all amateurs.
Winter VS summer
In winter, the rain is abundant, but if you're not afraid of the drops, if you're flexible and don't mind changes in schedule, you can enjoy the islands' many activities in a confidential way. The archipelago's most beautiful spots are yours and yours alone. Summer remains the best time to visit the Azores. However, the summer season between June and September also coincides with the peak tourist season. You'll need to take into account the crowds, the higher prices, the shortage of car rentals... But you'll be able to enjoy all the activities the Azores have to offer: swimming, hiking, water sports..
Which season to choose?
If you're a bit adventurous, if you're not afraid of getting stuck on an island because of bad weather, if you're not afraid of loneliness and run away from large gatherings, the winter months won't disappoint you. On the other hand, many establishments may be closed and the hydrangeas, symbols of the archipelago, are not in bloom; this is not the best season to go and see the whales (even if, in theory, you can admire them all year round). The best months to get to know the archipelago are May, June, September and October. Good weather, beautiful light, prices often more reasonable than in July-August... Everything then contributes to the success of your stay. The Azores are a destination that will allow you to recharge your batteries far from the heat of summer or the harshness of winter.
