10 Volcanic Natural Pools in São Miguel That Looks straight out of a Movie

If you’re heading to São Miguel in the Azores and skipping the natural pools… you’re seriously missing out. This island is packed with steaming thermal springs, volcanic rock pools, and ocean-fed swimming spots that feel like nature’s own spa.

Some are tucked into remote coastal cliffs, others sit inside lush gardens or historic bathhouses. And trust me—once you soak in these warm, mineral-rich waters with Atlantic waves crashing nearby, you might never want to leave.

I stayed in São Miguel for three months, making two trips, and have explored all the possible spots. Here are my favorite natural pools.

Helpful note: I’ve written detailed guides for most of the places on this list, so be sure to click through the links in the text to read more about the beautiful Azores islands and the things of your interests.

Sao Miguel Quick Travel Tips

Before sharing my favorite natural pool list, I’d like to take a moment to share a few words about the island and provide some guidance on organizing your trip and navigating around, making your trip planning easier.

• The island is big, and traveling from one side to the other takes around 90 minutes. I would recommend staying in the central area, such as Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, to be at an equal distance from both the eastern and western sides. It will make your driving shorter.
• Most people travel in the summer for the best weather, and I get it. But I was there from April, and I loved the cooler season, especially for hiking and enjoying the hot springs. There are also fewer crowds, and most of all, both car rentals and hotels are cheaper. Read more about the best time to visit the Azores
• To best enjoy the natural pools, arrive early in the morning and avoid weekends when the pools are more crowded. The space is limited, so they get crowded easily.
• Get a car rental – Some tourists prefer to use public transportation, but I never did that. I always rented the car and enjoyed the island at my own pace. I believe it’s the best way to make the most of your time.
• Don’t worry about the weather. It can rain now and have a hot sun an hour later, or vice versa. Always dress in layers and always bring a raincoat with you.

Ok, now that we have covered the basics, let’s find out about the best natural pools in São Miguel

Best natural pools in Sao Miguel

1. Piscinas do Pesqueiro

No sand beneath your feet here, but it’s the perfect spot for an invigorating swim to kickstart or wind down the day.

The ocean pools and freshwater showers are freebies! And if you want hot showers or changing rooms, that’ll be a few coins.

It’s located between the marinas in Ponta Delgada, and yet the water is crystal clear, very inviting, if not for the cold temperatures.

2. Poços de S. Vicente Ferreira

Located on the north coast of the island, the Poços de S. Vicente Ferreira is a very popular swimming spot among locals and tourists alike, because of its tranquil waters protected by a barrier of rocks. It’s indeed like swimming in a pool, just with salted water.

Venture into this small wonder, a remnant of volcanic creativity, divided from the ocean by a mere frame of rocks.

A coastal road serves as your easy path to this lovely spot, complete with picnic tables. And there is a nice restaurant nearby too.

3. Caloura Natural Pool

Piscinas Naturais da Caloura are amazing natural swimming pools located in the small village of Caloura, on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. They’re made from old black lava rock and filled with ocean water, but the rocks block the big waves, so it feels like a calm pool right by the sea!

There are stairs to get in, and the water is super clear—great for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around. There’s even a small pool that’s perfect for kids.

In summer (May to September), it’s warm and sunny, and the water feels just right. There are bathrooms, showers, and even a restaurant right next to the pools. If you’re hungry after swimming, you can eat yummy grilled fish while looking at the ocean!

It’s easy to get there by car, and it’s about 20 minutes from Ponta Delgada. Come early in the day, as it gets busy when the weather is hot and sunny.

It’s a perfect place to swim, relax, and enjoy nature without big waves getting in the way.

4. Piscina Naturais Ponta Da Galeira

Located right behind the most popular pools of Caloura, these hidden gems are definitely quieter and less busy. In the summer, you can enjoy their cool waters in tranquillity. Bathrooms and changing rooms are available, but there are no other facilities nearby, just private homes.

5. Piscinas Naturais de Santo António

Perched on Sao Miguel Island’s northern coast, the Santo António Natural Pool or Poços de Santo António is a fan favorite. The pool is filled with crystal-clear water, and the rocky bottom is visible.

Open 24/7 and unregulated, it’s best when the tide’s higher and there’s more water to play in.

On the way there, you’ll roll through the quaint town of Santo António, parking near the church and cemetery above the pool area, where you can also find some benches and picnic areas in a beautiful garden overlooking the spectacular, rugged coastline.

6. Piscinas Naturais das Calhetas da Maia

This spot boasts an expansive, easy-to-reach rocky beach. The Calhetas Natural Pools, situated in an open-sea region, are characterized by striking rock formations, including reefs visible at low tide.

Tucked away in a peaceful village, these pools form a delightful recreational space with an eating area. Keep your eyes peeled! It’s a fantastic place to spot fish and other marine life.

7. Complexo Municipal de Piscinas Lagoa

Lagoa was the first town where I stayed when I arrived in Sao Miguel for the first time. I went out of my rental and explored the area when I bumped into this spectacular spot with turquoise water on a very rough day.

However, in those man-made natural pools, people were easily swimming in the protected, calm water. The only thing that stunned me was the cold temperature, which apparently didn’t stop the brave swimmers.

Around the pools, you can find plenty of space for sunbathing, relaxing, and reading a book. The perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. Around this pool, you can find exquisite local restaurants.

I would suggest avoiding Boca Aberta restaurant; that was my first and worst dining experience in the Azores, and it was also costly.

8. Vila Franca Islet Natural Pool

Vila Franca Islet is a tiny island just off the coast of São Miguel in the Azores. It’s actually the top of an old volcano, and the middle part sank in just enough to make a perfect round swimming pool! The water inside is calm and clear because it’s connected to the ocean only through a small opening, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.

You can only visit the islet in summer—usually from June to October—because it’s a protected nature reserve. Boats depart every hour from the town of Vila Franca do Campo, and only a limited number of people are allowed to go each day to maintain its safety and cleanliness.

It’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance.

It’s one of the most incredible places in the Azores to swim—like jumping into a volcano’s secret pool!

9. Mosteiros

Piscinas Naturais dos Mosteiros are cool, natural swimming pools formed from old lava rocks on the west coast of São Miguel Island. When the ocean waves splash in, the pools fill up with seawater, but the stones block the big waves, so the water stays calm and safe to swim.

The water is super clear, and you might even see fish swimming around. Some people enjoy snorkeling or jumping off the rocks into the deeper parts. Just be careful—if the ocean is rough, it’s better to stay out. It also helps to wear water shoes, as the rocks can be slippery.

You can visit anytime, but it’s best from May to September, when the weather is sunny and warm. There’s a small parking area near the beach in the village of Mosteiros. From there, you walk down a short path to get to the pools.

It’s totally free and feels like a secret swimming spot made by nature. So fun!

10. Zona balnear Das Calhetas

This is one of the most convenient places to swim in Sao Miguel, as these natural pools and pebbly beach come with bathrooms and showers, and quite a spacious area where to lay your towels. It’s free and has access to both the sea from the beach and the pools as well.

In both cases, access to the water is easy, and since it’s a protected bay, there is not much current. However, it is always essential to be cautious, as a basic safety rule.

Here is where you can find these natural pools on Google Maps. There is a spacious parking lot where you can leave your car rental.