Best lakes around Rabo De Peixe serve as an excellent base for exploring São Miguel Island's renowned volcanic lakes. This fishing village on the northern coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores provides access to various crater lakes. The region is characterized by its dramatic volcanic landscapes and diverse natural environments. Visitors can find a range of lake experiences, from serene natural settings to man-made reservoirs.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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The small beach on Lagoa do Fogo is secluded amidst the crater landscape and is only accessible on foot. Fine sand, clear water, and absolute tranquility make it one of the most magical places in the Azores. Perfect for a break with an impressive view of the crater lake.
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Compared to many other natural pools, these pools are rather small and often barely filled with water. In my opinion, the other swimming options in this area are more worthwhile.
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Absolutely overrated – the small park, including the swimming area, is nice, but far too expensive for its size. The pools are very small and too crowded for my taste. If you want to soak in hot water, I recommend a visit to Terra Nostra Park.
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A wonderful park, but very small. Admission is okay at €3.00 per adult. There are also thermal pools where you can swim, but they are very small. It's also very crowded. To swim there, you have to pay an additional €7.00. I don't recommend it for swimming.
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The warm springs are very relaxing and recommended
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The short detour to the small lake is worth it, go to the end, then you can see the small waterfall best...
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The most popular lake is Lagoa do Fogo (Lagoon of Fire), known for its pristine blue water and lush volcanic surroundings. Another iconic destination is Lagoa das Sete Cidades, famous for its twin green and blue lakes, which is considered one of Portugal's seven natural wonders.
Yes, you can enjoy bathing at Caldeira Velha Hot Springs and Waterfall, where natural hot springs offer water temperatures up to 38 °C. For a different experience, the Galera Natural Swimming Pool provides a natural bathing bay, though it can be small and less filled at times.
The region offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging routes. For easy options, you can explore trails like the Lagoa Seafront Promenade Trail or the Mini Labyrinth loop. More difficult routes include the Ascent of Lagoa do Fogo. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Rabo De Peixe guide.
Yes, Caldeira Velha Hot Springs and Waterfall is considered family-friendly, offering a unique bathing experience. Additionally, the area around the Small Reservoir and Waterfall provides a short, interesting detour that families might enjoy.
The weather on São Miguel Island can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations like Lagoa do Fogo. Generally, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn offer more stable weather for outdoor activities. However, visiting during the shoulder seasons can mean fewer crowds. Always be prepared for mist and clouds, regardless of the season.
While not entirely hidden, Lagoa do Canário is a tranquil crater lake within the Sete Cidades complex, offering a peaceful connection with nature. Nearby, Lagoa das Empadadas is celebrated for its serene beauty and figure-eight shape, surrounded by lush greenery and popular with hikers.
You'll encounter dramatic volcanic landscapes, including crater lakes like Lagoa do Fogo and the distinct twin lakes (green and blue) of Lagoa das Sete Cidades. The region also features hot springs at Caldeira Velha and various waterfalls, often nestled within dense, lush vegetation.
Yes, São Miguel offers various cycling opportunities. For mountain biking, you can find routes like the Ribeira Grande Beachfront loop. Road cycling options include the challenging 'Volta do Concelho' circular route. Explore more in the MTB Trails around Rabo De Peixe and Cycling around Rabo De Peixe guides.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, especially the clear blue waters of Lagoa do Fogo and the panoramic views from viewpoints around Sete Cidades. The unique experience of bathing in natural hot springs at Caldeira Velha is also a highlight, as is the tranquility found in spots like Lagoa do Canário.
Yes, the Fajã Redonda Dam serves as a reservoir for a hydroelectric power plant. It's known for its natural beauty and is accessible via the PRC 29 SMI trail, offering a short detour to see a small waterfall.
Absolutely. For Lagoa das Sete Cidades, iconic viewpoints include Miradouro da Vista do Rei and Cerrado das Freiras, which offer panoramic vistas of the twin lakes and the surrounding caldera. A short hike from Lagoa do Canário also leads to the spectacular Boca do Inferno viewpoint, providing impressive views of the Sete Cidades caldera.


Still not found your perfect lake around Rabo De Peixe? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.