Header Ads

Azores Weather: Month-by-Month Complete Guide

Azores weather month by month: sea, sky and volcanic landscapes

Azores Weather: Month-by-Month Complete Guide

The Azores have a mild, oceanic subtropical climate and famously changeable weather—often “four seasons in one day.” Typical winter air temps average ~13 °C/55 °F and summers hover around ~24 °C/75 °F. Sea temperatures range from ~16–17 °C/61–63 °F in winter to ~24 °C/75 °F in late summer. Winter is wetter; July is the driest month. Pack layers and waterproofs, and keep plans flexible.

General Climate Overview

Mild year-round: ~13 °C in winter, ~24 °C in summer. Sea—helped by the Gulf Stream—sits ~16–17 °C in winter and ~24 °C in late summer.

Rainfall peaks in late fall and winter (Dec–Jan often ~130–135 mm/month), with July the driest (~30 mm). Relative humidity averages ~80%, sunshine ranges from ~4–5 h/day in December to ~8–9 h/day in July/August. Flexibility and layered clothing are key for the Azores.

Azores weather in January

Air temperature: ~11–16 °C (52–61 °F), average ~14 °C.

Sea temperature: ~17 °C (63 °F).

Rainfall: ~135 mm; rainy days: ~19; sunshine: ~5 h/day.

Humidity: ~82%.

Wind: winter storms possible; fog on high ridges.

Travel tips: It’s low season—expect quiet trails and lower prices. Focus on indoor-friendly highlights on São Miguel (tea plantations in Gorreana/Porto Formoso, pineapple greenhouses, thermal pools in Furnas/Caldeira Velha). Use clear spells for short coastal walks and sheltered viewpoints. Avoid crater rims (Sete Cidades/Lagoa do Fogo) on foggy or windy days. Pack a solid waterproof, warm mid-layer, and grippy hiking shoes. For activity ideas, see 10 melhores atividades.



Azores weather in February

Air temperature: ~10–16 °C (50–61 °F), coldest average month (~13 °C).

Sea temperature: ~17 °C (63 °F).

Rainfall: ~95–100 mm; rainy days: ~17; sunshine: ~6 h/day.

Humidity: ~82%.

Wind: frequent fronts; rough seas can affect island hops.

Travel tips: Still wintery, but longer daylight helps. Plan whale-museum/cultural stops (Horta/Pico) and thermal baths. When sun breaks through, do short hikes on São Miguel’s lower trails—see São Miguel hikes & map. Keep ferries/flights flexible (weather buffers). Waterproof daypack liner and power bank are handy.



Azores weather in March

Air temperature: ~11–16 °C (52–61 °F), average ~14 °C.

Sea temperature: ~16 °C (61 °F)—coolest of the year.

Rainfall: ~90–100 mm; rainy days: ~17–18; sunshine: ~7 h/day.

Humidity: ~81%.

Wind: changeable; quick alternation sun/showers.

Travel tips: Spring begins and whale-watching season kicks off (March–April) from Pico/Faial/São Miguel—book tours with flexible dates. Great month for waterfall photography after rain. Choose lower-elevation loops if cloud caps higher rims. Trekking poles help on muddy paths. Add island variety with Terceira’s lava tubes and Angra heritage; for Terceira trail ideas, see Terceira hikes.



Azores weather in April

Air temperature: ~11–17 °C (52–63 °F), average 14–15 °C.

Sea temperature: ~17 °C (63 °F).

Rainfall: ~70–80 mm; rainy days: ~13–16; sunshine: ~7 h/day.

Humidity: ~79%.

Wind: breezy with passing showers.

Travel tips: Lush spring color and comfortable hiking temps. Target morning windows for crater-lake views (Sete Cidades/Lagoa do Fogo). Mix trails with gardens, hot springs, and tea houses on showery afternoons. Bring a light shell, gaiters, and camera rain cover. For curated activities on São Miguel, check São Miguel: best activities.



Azores weather in May

Air temperature: ~13–19 °C (55–66 °F).

Sea temperature: ~18 °C (64 °F).

Rainfall: ~60–70 mm; rainy days: ~12; sunshine: ~8 h/day.

Humidity: ~80%.

Wind: generally light; great boating windows.

Travel tips: A sweet shoulder month for hikers and photographers. Hydrangeas begin budding; landscapes still emerald from winter rains. Swim in natural rock pools on calm, sunny days (sheltered coves feel warmer). Book whale trips and scenic drives; keep a light fleece for evenings. For island variety, add Santa Maria hikes (drier microclimate, golden beaches).



Azores weather in June

Air temperature: ~15–21 °C (59–70 °F).

Sea temperature: ~20 °C (68 °F).

Rainfall: ~45 mm; rainy days: ~10; sunshine: ~9 h/day.

Humidity: ~80%.

Wind: light to moderate; stable summer pattern emerging.

Travel tips: Early summer with long days. Ideal for coastal kayaking, SUP, snorkeling, and boat tours. Hydrangeas burst into full bloom late month—plan scenic loops and golden-hour viewpoints. Reserve car and top tours a bit ahead. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for rocky entries.



Azores weather in July

Air temperature: ~16–23 °C (61–73 °F), average ~20 °C.

Sea temperature: ~22 °C (72 °F).

Rainfall: ~30 mm (driest); rainy days: ~9; sunshine: ~9 h/day.

Humidity: ~78% (lowest).

Wind: gentle breezes; calm seas common.

Travel tips: Peak season with the year’s most reliable weather. Perfect for beaches, natural pools, crater-rim hikes, canyoning, diving. Beat crowds by starting at sunrise or visiting famous viewpoints near sunset. Strong UV—hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. For a list of island-wide ideas, see top Azores activities.



Azores weather in August

Air temperature: ~18–25 °C (64–77 °F), warmest month, average ~22 °C.

Sea temperature: ~24 °C (75 °F)—warmest ocean of the year.

Rainfall: ~45–50 mm; rainy days: ~9; sunshine: ~9 h/day.

Humidity: ~79%.

Wind: light; marine conditions typically favorable.

Travel tips: Classic summer: snorkeling, diving, sailing, cliff walks, and sunset picnics abound. Expect vibrant festivals and returning emigrant celebrations. Pre-book accommodation, cars, and popular tours. Plan long hikes for mornings; use afternoons for swimming. Hydrate and reapply sunscreen throughout the day.



Azores weather in September

Air temperature: ~17–24 °C (63–75 °F), average ~21 °C.

Sea temperature: ~24 °C (75 °F).

Rainfall: ~90 mm; rainy days: ~13–16; sunshine: ~8 h/day.

Humidity: ~80%.

Wind: calm overall; late-month instability possible.

Travel tips: A top-value month: warm seas, fewer crowds than August, and excellent light for photography. Monitor forecasts later in the month (remnants of Atlantic systems may bring a wet/windy day or two). Keep ocean activities flexible; slot in indoor culture and food tastings when fronts pass.



Azores weather in October

Air temperature: ~15–21 °C (59–70 °F), average ~18 °C.

Sea temperature: ~22 °C (72 °F).

Rainfall: ~110 mm; rainy days: ~16–18; sunshine: ~7 h/day.

Humidity: ~80%.

Wind: autumn fronts and occasional ex-tropical systems.

Travel tips: Superb for thermal baths (Furnas/Caldeira Velha) and birdwatching (migration). Alternate low-elevation walks with cultural visits on wet spells. After heavy rain, check trail advisories and avoid slippery ravines. Evenings are cozy—book farm-to-table dinners and local cheese tastings.



Azores weather in November

Air temperature: ~13–18 °C (55–64 °F), average ~16 °C.

Sea temperature: ~20 °C (68 °F).

Rainfall: ~130–135 mm; rainy days: ~17; sunshine: ~6 h/day.

Humidity: ~82%.

Wind: frequent Atlantic fronts; visibility drops on summits.

Travel tips: Expect dramatic coastal waves and full waterfalls—great for photography (keep a safe distance). Prioritize indoor culture, hot springs, and food experiences. Some adventure operators scale back; confirm hours. Low prices and authentic encounters reward off-season travelers. Waterproof boots and a robust rain shell are essential.



Azores weather in December

Air temperature: ~12–17 °C (54–63 °F), average ~15 °C.

Sea temperature: ~18 °C (64 °F).

Rainfall: ~120–150 mm; rainy days: ~17; sunshine: ~5 h/day.

Humidity: ~83% (highest).

Wind: winter storms; large ocean swell (view safely from cliffs).

Travel tips: Quiet, atmospheric, and great for thermal soaks, holiday lights, and local traditions. Weather can affect ferries/flights—build buffer days. Plan opportunistically: seize clear windows for views, keep cafés/museums for rainy spells. Value season pricing makes longer stays attractive.



Sem comentários