The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago often called the 'Hawaii of Europe', are just a four-hour flight from the UK, offering unspoiled beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes at a fraction of the cost of a Hawaiian getaway.
Why the Azores rival Hawaii
Both are volcanic archipelagos with turquoise waters and sun-drenched climates, but the Azores are significantly cheaper. A week in Hawaii can cost between £1,500 and £4,500 per person, including flights, accommodation, and activities, while a similar trip to the Azores typically starts from £700 per person.
Getting there and costs
Direct flights from London Heathrow to Ponta Delgada Airport take just over four hours, with one-way fares from £118. Flights are also available from Liverpool and Edinburgh. On the islands, a pint costs around £1.28, and a meal at a local restaurant ranges from £8.57 to £12.85 per person, or about £25.70 at popular spots.
What to explore
The Azores consist of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic, each with its own coastline and landscapes. São Miguel, the largest island, is known as the 'Green Island' and features the twin-crater lake Sete Cidades, one of Portugal's seven natural wonders, with contrasting blue and green waters.
From the Vista do Rei Viewpoint, one traveller wrote on TripAdvisor: "One of those places where you feel in communion with nature. The colours, the nature, the air you breathe, all make this place a refuge to regain calm. Just for these moments, it is worth visiting the Azores now that tourism is still at very acceptable levels."
Beaches and natural pools
São Miguel also boasts volcanic black-sand beaches like Praia de Santa Bárbara, a surfing hub, and Praia dos Mosteiro with warm rock pools. The offshore islet at Vila Franca do Campo features a sunken volcanic crater forming a natural pool. Elsewhere, hidden coves and hot springs abound.
One holidaymaker declared on TripAdvisor: "The Azores are far superior to Hawaii." A local recommended visiting from July to mid-August, saying: "Every island is different and very unique. If you are planning to visit, the best time is from July to mid-August. This is when there is an insane amount of things happening in all the islands, and when there is a flow of crowds travelling from island to island."
They added: "Start with São Miguel and enjoy their homemade food that is cooked in the caldeiras - steam that comes from the active volcanic action just below the surface. Visit their beautiful beaches and hiking trails, and enjoy the evening in the natural hot springs. Ponta Delgada has a beautiful marina and night scene. This is the biggest city in the Azores."
