São Miguel Island offers some of Portugal’s most accessible and diverse snorkeling experiences. Thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning volcanic scenery, the island ranks high for underwater adventures. We particularly like the Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling for its combination of comfort and close-up wildlife spotting — it’s a great choice for those who want to see the sea without getting wet, but also have the chance to snorkel and see fish, starfish, and even octopuses. For travelers who prefer a more active day immersed in nature, the Hike and Snorkeling with a local blends mountain scenery with ocean exploration, perfect for families or those who want variety. Last but not least, if you’re after a quick, exhilarating underwater experience, the Snorkeling around Vila Franca do Campo offers a short, but highly rewarding, marine life encounter.
Quick Overview
This list includes tours that range from laid-back boat excursions to active hikes combined with snorkeling, and intimate marine wildlife encounters. Each offers a unique way to enjoy São Miguel’s waters and natural beauty:
– Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling — see sea life from the comfort of a boat, with optional snorkeling.
– Hike and Snorkeling with a local — explore lush forests and waterfalls, then cool off in the ocean.
– Snorkeling around Vila Franca do Campo — a fast-paced boat trip to a protected islet with vibrant sea creatures.
– Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling — discover one of Terceira’s key marine reserves on a guided boat and snorkel adventure.
1. São Miguel: Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling
At number 1, this Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling combines a relaxing cruise with the chance to see fauna and flora underwater. For about $57 per person, you get a 2-hour experience exploring the waters around Vila Franca do Campo. The main draw is the glass-bottom boat, which allows you to view the ocean life without getting your hair wet, perfect if you’re hesitant about snorkeling but still want a glimpse of the underwater world. The boat is operated by friendly staff, including a biologist who shares insights about the marine ecosystem, adding an educational twist.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of comfort and accessibility. Reviewers praise it as a “private tour” atmosphere, especially when only a few people are on board, and emphasize the spectacular fish, starfish, and sea cucumbers they encountered. The highlight for many is the opportunity to see octopuses and colorful fish up close, which can be hard to spot from land. Plus, the tranquil setting is ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to marine life. The boat departs at different times, so check availability to fit it into your schedule.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a relaxing, informative, and visually stunning experience—ideal for those who prefer seeing the sea from above and below without a strenuous effort.
2. São Miguel Azores: Hike and Snorkeling with a local
On our second spot, the Hike and Snorkeling with a local is a fantastic choice for nature lovers who want to combine land and sea adventures. This 4-hour tour costs a bit more but offers a well-rounded experience with a knowledgeable local guide. The journey starts with a trek through some of the island’s most beautiful forests, where you’ll learn about the flora, fauna, and geology that make São Miguel special. The trail features a picturesque waterfall, perfect for photos and cooling down after the hike.
After exploring on foot, you’ll head to the coast for snorkeling, which is suitable for almost all ages. The marine environment here boasts schools of fish, small creatures, and clear waters perfect for swimming. The guide, Gabriel, is praised for his friendly, humorous approach, making the trip both fun and educational. Reviewers highlight how the scenery during the hike is breathtaking, and the snorkeling offers a peaceful way to wind down and see marine life up close.
This tour is best suited for active travelers and families who want a multi-sensory experience that combines hiking in lush landscapes with a refreshing swim in the sea. Because it’s moderate in difficulty, it’s accessible even if you’re not an experienced hiker.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced, scenic tour that’s perfect for those who want to experience both São Miguel’s mountain and ocean environments in one memorable outing.
3. São Miguel: Snorkeling around Vila Franca do Campo
Next on our list, Snorkeling around Vila Franca do Campo offers a quick but deeply satisfying marine adventure for about $83 per person. This one-hour tour is perfect for travelers short on time, but eager to see the diverse marine life that makes these waters special. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll hop into the water with fins and mask, exploring the colorful underwater world surrounding the islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
What makes this trip stand out is the quality of the water — it’s warm with excellent visibility, making spotting fish and starfish easier. Many reviewers note how their initial hesitance about snorkeling quickly turned into awe once they saw the variety of marine species, including schools of fish, sea cucumbers, and even a stingray. The experience is suitable for beginners, and the guides are attentive and professional, keeping everyone safe and comfortable.
This tour typically receives high praise for its intimate, high-quality marine experience and short duration, making it ideal for those who want a taste of ocean life without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: A quick, engaging introduction to snorkeling that’s perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a memorable splash in São Miguel’s waters.
4. Terceira Island: Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling
Finally, on Terceira Island, the Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling combines a scenic boat ride with underwater exploration. For about 1.5 hours, you’ll cruise from Marina de Angra do Heroísmo on a speedboat, exploring the marine reserve of Ilhéu das Cabras. The boat stops at the islet, where you can snorkel among colorful fish, sea urchins, and even rays. The tour includes wetsuits and fins, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned swimmer.
What makes this trip unique is its focus on underwater wildlife in a protected environment, with reviews mentioning sightings of jellyfish, groupers, and parrotfish. It’s an active, fun experience that combines natural beauty with marine education. The guide’s sharp eyes and knowledgeable commentary enhance the experience, and many reviewers find it to be “stunning” and “incredible.” It’s suitable for those who want a short but enriching marine adventure in a beautiful setting.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat rides and want to see Terceira’s marine biodiversity firsthand. Bringing your own towel is recommended, as you’ll likely get wet and cold after snorkeling.
Bottom Line: An exciting, well-organized boat and snorkeling tour that offers a glimpse into Terceira’s vibrant underwater life, perfect for active travelers.
How to Choose Your Ideal Snorkeling Experience
Choosing the right snorkeling experience depends largely on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you prefer a laid-back, educational tour that allows you to see marine life comfortably, the Glass Bottom Boat Tour is a perfect fit. For those who want a full day of activities, the Hike and Snorkeling combines scenic land exploration with ocean swimming. If your time is limited but you still want a rich marine encounter, the Vila Franca do Campo snorkeling offers a short, high-impact experience. Meanwhile, travelers on Terceira should consider the Ilhéu das Cabras boat tour for a fast, marine wildlife-focused adventure.
Think about your budget, how active you want to be, and whether you prefer a short or longer outing. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
To sum it up, São Miguel and Terceira Islands offer a variety of fantastic snorkeling options that cater to different tastes and schedules. For a relaxed, educational experience, the glass-bottom tour is ideal. If you’re after a mix of hiking and ocean fun, the guided hike and snorkel tour is perfect. For those seeking a quick thrill, Vila Franca do Campo’s short snorkeling trip packs a punch. And if marine life is your main goal, Terceira’s boat tour offers a lively underwater adventure. Whatever you choose, these tours provide a memorable way to explore the islands’ underwater world — so book early and get ready to enjoy some of Portugal’s best sea life.