Sao Miguel Island, the largest of the Azores, is a fantastic destination for snorkeling enthusiasts looking for clear waters and abundant marine life. Its unique volcanic landscape and protected marine reserves make it an ideal spot to explore underwater. We particularly love the Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling because it combines the comfort of a scenic boat ride with the excitement of getting close to colorful fish and sea creatures. Plus, the chance to learn about local flora and fauna from a biologist adds an educational touch that’s hard to beat.
If you’re after a more active experience, the Hike and Snorkeling with a local offers a perfect combination of mountain trails and ocean exploration, ideal for those who want a full day immersed in nature. And for those who prefer a shorter, more focused trip, the Snorkeling around Vila Franca do Campo delivers a quick but memorable underwater adventure. For a taste of marine life mixed with stunning scenery, the Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling on Terceira Island rounds out the list with its wildlife-rich waters and relaxed pace.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you choose the best option for your preferences and schedule.
1. São Miguel: Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling
On this tour, you’ll enjoy the beauty of Vila Franca do Campo from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat that reveals the vibrant life beneath the waves. The tour lasts around two hours and costs about $57 per person, offering excellent value. The boat is equipped with a transparent bottom, allowing everyone to see sea cucumbers, starfish, and shoals of colorful fish without even getting wet.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to learn from a biologist about the local marine ecosystem while cruising around the islet. The highlight is the snorkel portion, where you can swim among the marine life and spot creatures like octopuses and parrotfish. Reviewers rave about the friendly staff, the scenic views, and the intimate feeling of only a few people on board. One described it as feeling like a private tour, which is a real bonus in this popular spot.
This tour is best suited for families and travelers who want a relaxed, informative experience with some underwater fun. The main drawback could be the weather — check availability before booking — but the staff are flexible and helpful.
Bottom Line: A scenic, family-friendly option that combines boat comfort with underwater discovery, perfect for those new to snorkeling or who prefer a gentle introduction.
2. São Miguel Azores: Hike and Snorkeling with a local
This tour offers an immersive nature experience, blending a scenic mountain hike with snorkel time in the ocean. At around four hours and costing a moderate amount, it’s suitable for adventurous travelers who like a mix of land and sea. Starting with a hike through one of the island’s most beautiful forests, you’ll learn about local flora, fauna, and geology from your guide, Gabriel, who has a reputation for being personable and knowledgeable.
The highlight of this trip is the wild waterfall you’ll see along the trail, adding a splash of excitement before heading to the ocean. The snorkeling segment takes place in a protected water area where you can see a variety of small fish and marine creatures in clear, refreshing water. Reviews emphasize how Gabriel’s enthusiasm makes the trip memorable, with travelers appreciating the opportunity to capture fantastic photos and enjoy the natural surroundings.
This tour is perfect for those who want more than just underwater exploration — it’s ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy hiking and wildlife. The moderate difficulty of the hike means it’s accessible but not suited for those with mobility challenges.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers who want a full-day adventure combining mountain scenery and marine life, with a natural and educational focus.
3. Sao Miguel: Snorkeling around Vila Franca do Campo
For those looking for a quick, focused underwater experience, this snorkel tour around Vila Franca do Campo is about an hour long at a price of $83 per person. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy water clarity and marine life, such as colorful fish and sea cucumbers, up close. The tour begins with a short safety briefing, after which you’re guided into the water to explore the vibrant surroundings of the islet.
Reviewers have raved about the crystal-clear visibility and the friendliness of the guides, who make even nervous beginners feel comfortable. One described it as “one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” even if it was their first time snorkeling. The scenery and water temperatures are ideal, making it suitable for families and first-timers alike.
This tour’s main advantage is its affordability and brevity, making it suitable as a half-day activity. The limited duration might not satisfy those seeking a long underwater adventure, but it offers a perfect snapshot of the island’s marine beauty.
Bottom Line: A short but memorable snorkeling trip, well-suited for travelers who want to sample the marine life without committing to a full day.
4. Terceira Island: Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling
On Terceira Island, this 1.5-hour boat trip offers a combination of marine exploration and wildlife viewing in one of the island’s most beautiful nature reserves. Starting from Marina de Angra do Heroísmo, you’ll take a speedboat ride to the Ilhéu das Cabras, where you’ll stop to snorkel and discover a rich underwater world filled with jellyfish, rays, groupers, and more.
The trip’s appeal lies in its small group size and the chance to see diverse marine species up close. Several reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the warm, clear waters, which are perfect for snorkeling. The crew is praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm, making sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. One reviewer mentioned the thrill of seeing a stingray and many colorful fish, which made the trip truly memorable.
The main consideration is that the water can be chilly, but wetsuits are provided, and the experience is suitable for all skill levels. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and those wanting a compact but intense marine encounter.
Bottom Line: A short, wildlife-rich boat tour that combines scenic views with abundant marine life, perfect for a half-day adventure on Terceira.
How to Choose Your Ideal Snorkeling Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, and interest level. If you prefer a relaxing, educational outing with easy access to marine life, the glass-bottom boat tour (details here) is a great pick. For active travelers craving a mix of hiking and ocean swimming, the hike and snorkeling tour (see more) offers a full day immersed in nature.
If you’re pressed for time but want a quick underwater fix, the snorkeling tour around Vila Franca do Campo (more info) is ideal. For a wildlife-focused trip on Terceira, the Ilhéu das Cabras boat tour (check it out) will give you a concentrated dose of marine diversity.
Booking ahead is recommended, especially in peak summer months. Consider your fitness level and whether you prefer a guided, educational experience or an adventurous, freeform exploration.
Final thoughts
Sao Miguel and the surrounding Azores islands offer a fantastic range of snorkeling experiences that suit many interests and schedules. Whether you want a family-friendly boat ride with educational insights, a full-day trek with underwater stops, or a quick splash into the ocean’s depths, there’s something for all.
For first-time snorkelers or those with limited time, the glass-bottom tour provides a comfortable introduction. If you’re seeking adventure and physical activity, the hike combined with snorkeling is perfect. Meanwhile, the Terceira boat tour offers a wildlife-rich marine encounter in a shorter package.
Book early to secure your preferred date, and be sure to check the weather forecast — the Azores can be unpredictable! Whichever tour you choose, Sao Miguel’s waters promise a memorable splash of nature and adventure.
