Mosteiros is a small beach town located in the northwestern part of São Miguel island, Azores.

It has been originated by lava flows from the nearby extinct vulcano Pico de Mafra. This  flow of lava also originated the famous natural pools, a large area of several rock pools on the north side of the village. They have different dimensions for length and depth, and allow swimming, diving, snorkelling or simply observing the sea life within, such as different fishes, octopus and starfishes.

On the opposite side of the pools, there’s a very scenic black sand beach, with fantastic views to the rock formations that name the town. Between the beach and the pools, you’ll find the fishing port.

The town is also renowned for its fantastic sunsets, only observable from the western side of the island. People come from other parts of the island to contemplate the Mosteiros sunsets.

The whole area of the pools, with multiple bays and the Mosteiros islets, beautiful rock formations that name the town (Mosteiros means Monasteries), offer great conditions for diving, snorkelling and kayaking. The islets are considered marine reserve and fishing there is not allowed. But fishing from the coast or by boat is great, as well as spearfishing.

Surfing is also a possible activity as Mosteiros is a very consistent surfing spot. Check more on surfing and other sports in this article: Surfing, Fishing and other Ocean Sports

Mosteiros is also a great place for birdwatching. Both endemic and migratory birds, populate the town abundantly. The Cory’s shearwater is particularly famous here. It breeds colonially in the Azores archipelago, as well as Madeira, Berlengas (mainland Portugal) and Canary Islands. They are nocturnal birds and its distinctive call is loud and can’t be missed. They are a protected species and there’s a program in place, SOS Cagarro, to rescue lost and injured birds, usually juveniles, as a consequence of strong winds and nocturnal light pollution. 

Whale watching is also a possible activity to do in Mosteiros. The local charter Terra do Pico  offers different tours, as well as boat trips and SUP and kayak rentals.

For those who enjoy hiking, the trail Atalho dos Vermelhos  is great to visit the natural water springs that provide fresh water to the town. It’s a 5,4 Km circular route that offers dramatic views over the cliffs and the ocean.

The proximity to Sete Cidades makes Mosteiros even more special, allowing a quick and easy access to beautiful lagoons, viewpoints and fantastic hikes, such as Mata do Canário and Vista de Rei, which go around the Sete Cidades vulcano crater. Serra Devassa is another incredible hike, which takes you to extinct lagoons, swampy areas, and other smaller lagoons, like Lagoa das Éguas, Lagoa Rasa e as Lagoas Empadadas.

Also close by is the thermal ocean pool of Ferraria, just 8km away, where it’s possible to swim in ocean heated water (which can reach up to 40ºC). Best time to go is around the low tide, preferably with small to no swell. There’s an access ladder to go in and out of the pool. Closer to the rocks is where the water gets hotter. The pool is open to the ocean so allows to swim out to the ocean to cool off.

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