April marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in the Azores, making it an ideal time to visit if you're looking to hike, whale watch, and soak in the hot springs. Expect a mix of sunny days in the 60s (Fahrenheit), with the occasional rain shower and cloudy day. Accommodation prices are still lower than in the busy summer months, and activities and businesses on the western islands of Flores and Corvo are beginning to open up.

Weather

Longer days, less precipitation, and warming temperatures in April mark the beginning of spring in the Azores. While the islands benefit from a temperate climate all year round, a noticeable shift in daytime highs and more days of sunshine happens in April. Overnight temperatures will still drop to 52ºF (11ºC); however, during the day, highs average 63ºC (17ºC) and can get up to 70ºF (21ºC).

After four months of on-and-off rain, the islands look lush and beautiful. With around 10 days of precipitation in April, you'll still want to pack a quality raincoat. Still, days of rain are less frequent than in December, January, and February, especially on São Miguel Island. Sea temperatures remain around 63ºF (17ºC), so pack a wetsuit if you're looking to participate in water activities.

Crowds & Costs

Throughout April, the number of visitors to the Azores slowly increases by the day. Restaurants and activity providers on the outer islands of Corvo, Flores, and Pico that were closed up for winter begin to open, and an excited buzz seems to engulf the islands. Even so, accommodation prices are significantly cheaper than in July and August, and trails, beaches, and off-the-beaten-path towns will be crowd-free.

Where to Go

Protected by the mountains to the north, Ponta Delgada on São Miguel island is a great place to base yourself if you want to spend your days between the beach, hiking, and the hot pools. Also, on São Miguel, the volcanic village Sete Cidades is a hiker's paradise and on rainy days, head to Furnas to soak in hot springs and visit Terra Nostra garden to admire the spring flowers starting to bloom. On the eastern side of São Miguel, you can explore Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park and test your bird-watching skills in the subtropical forest of Pico da Vara. 

Terceira Island is another excellent place to explore in April. You can spend your time between the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angra do Heroísmo, driving the six-hour loop road, and visiting Furnas do Enxofre. Then, take advantage of the spring sunshine with a day at the local beaches of Praia da Vitória and Praia da Riviera.

With the increase of passenger ferries traveling between islands, April is also a great time to visit the still-quiet islands of Pico and Faial. At just 13 miles (21 km) long, it's possible to explore Faial Island's volcanic highlights Caldeira do Cabeço Gordo and Capelinhos Volcano, in a day. Then, ferry to Pico Island to climb the challenging 7,713 feet (2,351 m) Mount Pico. 

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What to Do 

With wildflowers beginning to bloom and the landscapes lush from the winter rains, April is an excellent time to go hiking in the Azores. Depending on how much you'd like to challenge yourself, you have plenty of options, with hikes ranging from summiting Mount Pico, Portugal's highest mountain, to the gentler trails around Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Cidades Lagoon. Also, on Pico Island, the Trilho das Vinhas de Criação Velha trail, which is very popular in the summer, can be enjoyed with hardly another hiker in sight.

If you're a wildlife lover, you can't miss a dolphin and whale watching cruise in April. Blue whales, fin whales, and baleen whales can be spotted migrating along the coast, and the Azores' resident dolphins are often playing nearby. If the weather plays up, or in the evening, relax in one of Furnas' natural hot springs, and on warm days, the temperature is pleasant for kayaking, paddle boarding, or relaxing with a book in hand at the beach.

Events in April

Tremor Festival, São Miguel Island. In late March and early April, alternative music lovers flock to São Miguel to attend secret concerts and other events around the island. Locations are announced only before a concert is set to go live and range from hot springs to greenhouses.

Holy Ghost Festival, nationwide. Over Labor Day (May 1) weekend, Azoreans come together for a massive feast to celebrate the Holy Ghost. A different historical or religious figure is honored on the seven Saturdays leading up to Labor Day.

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

Self-Drive Azores Adventure: São Miguel & Terceira - 8 Days. Spend time in Ponta Delgada, Furnas, Angra do Heroísmo, head out on a whale watching tour, and soak in hot springs on this self-drive adventure through São Miguel and Terceira's bustling towns and unspoiled nature.

Porto, Lisbon & the Azores - 13 Days. Tour the highlights of Lisbon and Porto (with a slew of fascinating day trips to the Douro Valley, Coimbra, and Sintra). Then it's time to jet off toward the remote Azores archipelago, where you'll spend four days exploring the volcanic landscapes, verdant scenery, and wild beaches of São Miguel Island.

More Helpful Information

The Azores in March
The Azores in May
Best Time of Year to Visit the Azores
How Many Days to Spend in the Azores