Eight hundred miles off the west coast of Portugal in the middle of the North Atlantic, a cluster of volcanic islands awaits. Beloved by adventurous travelers for hiking trails along the wild, green landscape; by wellness seekers for the abundance of thermal springs, and by Americans looking for a quick holiday for the proximity to the East Coast, the Azores have something for everyone. The archipelago has its charm year-round, but with the drier season stretching from June to September, now is the best time to visit—and to immerse yourself in the feel of the region, skip the fancy hotel in favor of a vacation rental.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in the Azores
- For a Minimalist Design Aesthetic: Villa Vue Sur la Mer, from $232 a night
- For a Mediterranean Feel: Torre do Termo, from $606 a night
- For a Pool with a View: Guava Azores II, from $297 a night
- For a Cozy City Stay: The Escape, from $169 a night
- For a One-of-a-Kind Accommodation: Moinho das Feteiras, from $345 a night
The island group is pretty much a “choose your own adventure” of vacation options. In São Miguel (nicknamed the “Green Island,” and the largest of the archipelago), you’ll find both cobblestoned city streets and geothermal spas. Santa Maria’s clear waters make it prime for those craving a beach holiday first and foremost. Terceira, an island famous in equal parts for its ultra-green countryside and slightly staggering cow population, might be best for a quiet retreat off the beaten path. The best Azores Airbnbs put you in the middle of all of it; ahead, seven properties that caught our eye.
Torre do Termo
Located on the southern coast of São Miguel, on the other side of Lagoa do Fogo, is perched on a hilltop so you get a direct view of the sea. Architecturally, the home feels somewhere between tower and villa—inside, terracotta floors and rustic wood-beamed ceilings put it closer to the latter. Guests not willing to brave the temperamental ocean waters will love the swimming pool, which comes with lounge chairs for long days in the sun.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer, TV, piano, air conditioning, patio, pool, grill, sun loungers
Location: São Miguel
Villa Vue Sur la Mer
This is a home designed for minimalists: Low-profile furniture, organic shapes, and a simple, neutral palette make for a calming seaside escape. You’ll be just a five-minute walk to Praia do Almoxarife, a black sand beach, and a quick drive to the town of Horta for when you need to pick up groceries. The home itself sits on an orchard; depending on the season, you may be able to skip the farmers market entirely and take advantage of the fresh produce directly from the property.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer/dryer, wood-burning fireplace, AC, beach access, fire pit, backyard
Location: Faial
Cantinho do Paraíso
Surrounded by rolling green hills and hiking trails to explore, this Airbnb is ideal for the traveler looking for full immersion in nature. Take your pick between ocean and mountain views; both are stunning, and can be enjoyed from the well-equipped outdoor area. The interior design takes its cues from Balinese style (think open spaces and lots of woven rattan), and luxe features like a hot tub and outdoor bath make it all the more transportive.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, outdoor shower, washer/dryer, TV, travel crib, AC, patio, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, hot tub, sun loungers, cleaning available upon request
Location: Santa Maria
Guava Azores II
For the couple looking for convenience and serenity rolled into one, this duplex offers both. It’s in the quiet village of Ribeira das Taínhas, where you’ll get a more local feel, but only a short drive to Vila Franca do Campo if you want to dine out or do some shopping. And when you want to be alone, the sparkling swimming pool with views of the seas is just the spot to spend an afternoon unwinding with a book. While the outdoor space is the draw here (there’s an equally beautiful garden, where blooming flowers wind along a pergola), the small apartment is well-stocked with coffee, board games, and a work area.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bathtub, TV, travel crib, air conditioning, patio, shared pool, sun loungers
Location: São Miguel
Casa Saudade
If you’re traveling with a group and want an extra level of service, this is the villa for you. The home is near all the best hiking spots on the coast of the island, the bustling city of Angra, and the thermal springs. It’s spacious and can sleep up to 12, with lots of common areas for your entire group, and has a private saltwater pool for taking a dip. What’s more: Housekeeping is offered throughout your stay, and you get a fresh breakfast delivered each morning.
Rooms: 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer/dryer, crib, HDTV, AC, indoor fireplace, shared beach access, sun loungers, grill, private pool, pet-friendly, housekeeping available, breakfast provided
Location: Terceira
The Escape
Prefer to be right in the center of island life? This one-bedroom puts you in the heart of Ponta Delgada, the biggest city on the island. Enjoy a gift basket upon your arrival to get acquainted with local treats, then head out to explore the area’s restaurants, attractions, and architecture (the last of which you can see up close from the kitchen’s oversized windows). There’s even a little desk set-up great for remote workers.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer/dryer, air conditioning, TV
Location: São Miguel
Moinho das Feteiras
It’s not often you get the chance to stay in a restored windmill. This one, dating back to the 19th century, gives you 360-degree views—you’ll be high above it all with the best viewpoint in the city. The property sits on a sprawling garden carefully landscaped with tropical trees and plants, and there’s a shared pool complete with loungers that you can use in the warmer months. While you’ll be pretty centrally located in the town of Ponta Delgada, you can also sleep in instead of venturing out for coffee: Breakfast is served each morning direct to your doorstep.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: HDTV, AC, shared backyard, beach essentials, breakfast provided, shared pool
Location: São Miguel
