After the rains of January, February is a great month to hike the lush landscapes of the Azores and relax in scenic hot springs dotted around São Miguel Island. Temperatures hover in the high 50s (Fahrenheit), and as February is considered offseason, you'll find the trails and towns crowd-free. You'll want to be prepared for the occasional rain shower, but in return, you can take advantage of the cheaper accommodations and deserted beaches.

Weather

February may be the coldest month of the year in the Azores, but with a temperate, subtropical climate, the islands will be warmer than their chilly European neighbors to the north. Average highs reach into the low 60s (Fahrenheit), while nighttime temperatures rarely go below 50°F (10ºC). There's less rain and more sunshine per day than in January, while water temperatures remain around 63ºF (17ºC).

The western island of Flores and Corvo will see slightly more rain than São Miguel and Terceira, and the mountaintop of Pico even sees a dusting of snow in February. You can also expect fog at higher altitudes and more days of rough seas.

Crowds & Costs

Along with January, February is the quietest and most affordable time to visit the Azores. Accommodation options are plentiful, and unlike the busy summer season, you can enjoy a high-end resort for under $150 per night and nice hotels and Bed & Breakfast for under $100 per night. Activities and excursions on São Miguel and Terceira continue to operate, and while prices remain relatively constant throughout the year, you can enjoy dolphin-watching and guided tours without the crowds.

Hiking and relaxing in hot springs are the most popular activities in February, so you'll likely see more people on the trail or at the natural springs on São Miguel than at the beach. Choose between one of the busier free hot springs or treat yourself to a day at a luxurious private hot spring resort.

Where to Go

With less frequent ferries to the western islands of Flores and Corvo, you'll get the most out of your time by sticking with trips around the more populated eastern and central islands of São Miguel and Terceira. Most flights arrive in Ponta Delgada, a perfect place to base yourself to explore the volcanic village Sete Cidades, the geothermal wonderland of Furnas, and Terra Nostra Park. From Ponta Delgada, you can also embark on a whale and dolphin-watching tour or relax at one of the many restaurants in town.

Terceira is just a short flight away and is home to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Angra do Heroísmo (or Angra for short). The cooler weather is ideal for hiking up Monte Brasil and Serra do Cume for fascinating island views. With a rental car, you can also tour the lush island, check out the unique rock formations at Biscoitos, and search for colorful impérios, shrines and temples devoted to the Holy Spirit.

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What to Do

One of the best ways to discover the lush landscapes of the Azores is on foot. You'll need to rent a car to get around, but you'll have plenty of beautiful trail options in return. On São Miguel, the most popular Mata do Canário - Sete Cidades Trail brings you past turquoise lakes and scenic pastureland, and the gentler Chá Gorreana Trail takes you through a picturesque tea plantation. After your hike, relax in a hot spring under a waterfall at Caldeira Velha or one of the pools in the larger Terra Nostra Park. 

The rains of December and January have turned Terceira Island into a green wonderland perfect for hiking. Check the weather report for fog, and if clear, tick off the Lagoa dos Mistérios Negros Trail or the Lagoa das Patas Trail. No matter the weather, you can walk among the historic buildings of Angra do Heroísmo or check out the volcanic chamber of Algar do Carvão. Dolphin watching is another popular winter activity; if you're lucky, you may even spot a baleen whale. The occasional thunderstorm may cause a delay in your plans, but with some flexibility in your schedule, you'll have no problem ticking off your must-dos. 

Events in February

Carnival Festival, nationwide. The islands come to life on the Friday before Ash Wednesday with parties, parades, and festivities for four nights. The largest celebration is in São Miguel, where Ponta Delgada is filled with street dancers, floats, and street vendors for up to a week.

Day of the Girlfriends/Day of the Boyfriends, nationwide. Before the Carnival kicks off, locals celebrate their friendships with a fun day out dining with friends.

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

Self-Drive Azores Adventure: São Miguel & Terceira - 8 Days. Enjoy a perfect mix of relaxing in hot springs, kayaking picturesque lagoons, and hiking through lush greenery as you self-drive around São Miguel and Terceira islands.

Azores Adventure: Best of São Miguel - 7 Days. Discover the impressive landscapes of São Miguel via canyoning, mountain biking, hiking, and whale watching while basing yourself in Ponta Delgada.

More Helpful Information

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