São Miguel: Sea Caves & Volcanic Cliffs Boat Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Depart from Rabo de Peixe, one of the most authentic fishing harbors in the Azores, and spend 2 hours exploring a coastline only reachable by sea.
You'll pass towering volcanic cliffs, hidden caves and rock formations that no road or trail can get you to.
Your first landmark is Areal de Santa Bárbara, the Azores' most famous surf beach, a completely different perspective from the water.
Further along, hidden caves carved into the volcanic rock start appearing. When the sea allows, we go inside, the kind of moment that catches everyone off guard.
Our crew knows every corner by name. The Priest Rock, the Indian Rock, formations that rise straight out of the ocean, each with a story.
We reach Porto Formoso before heading back. By the time you step off the boat, you'll have seen a side of São Miguel that most visitors never do.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Rabo de Peixe
One of the most unique fishing harbors in the Azores. Watch local fishermen preparing their boats, sorting their lines and bringing in the fresh catch, the real Azores, before you even leave the harbor.
Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara
One of the most iconic surf beaches in the Azores, drawing surfers from all over the world to Ribeira Grande, the surf capital of the islands. You won't set foot on the sand, but seeing it from the water gives you a perspective that no one on the beach ever gets.
Options
São Miguel: Sea Caves & Volcanic Cliffs Boat Tour
What‘s Included
High-quality windbreaker-style jacket (provided for use during the tour)
Safety equipment (life jackets & certified gear)
Professional crew with local knowledge
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
32 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Highly recommended
846carolv,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing boat tour along the coastline and caves of São Miguel in the Azores. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, with stunning rock formations, beautiful caves, and incredible views of the island from the water. A special thank you to Captain Natalia, who was fantastic throughout the trip. She was professional, knowledgeable, and made everyone feel safe and comfortable while navigating the coastline. Our guide and host, Diago, made the experience even more memorable. He was fun, engaging, and entertaining, sharing interesting information about the area while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable. The combination of spectacular scenery, excellent organization, and a wonderful crew made this one of the highlights of our visit to São Miguel. Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Azores from the sea!
‘Seaing’ the island from a different view.
Alba-on-tour,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you fancy spending a couple have hours learning about the island whilst on a rip speed boat then this is for you. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip. The crew were fantastic, even when he dropped his hat into the sea, so we got an impromptu 360 spin in the boat. The scenery was amazing and the skills of the captain the get us up close and personal was fantastic. I’d highly recommend this trip.
Great boat tour
seanc8675,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome trip and scenery. The north coast is rugged and beautiful and seeing from a Zodiac is the way to go! Great guides and captain, comfortable boat and newer gear. 110% worth it!
Simply amazing
O2574OBpaulm,Aug 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The most amazing breathtaking views and the crew were very informative and the most pleasurable people. Definitely recommend.
Adventure, sympathy and tourist information
raulcastanho999,Aug 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an excellent experience, with some adventure spirit, sympathy from the whole team and interesting tourist information. It was 2 hours very well spent!
Moments of pure adrenaline
naterciam2025,Aug 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Team was impeccable from the reception, to the guide and to the "captain" ... During the whole tour various relevant information regarding the coast was given. Without a doubt it was a well-passed Sunday morning, when in the end we had moments of pure adrenaline.
AG Expeditions Delivers an Incredible Experience
evans454,Jul 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an absolutely incredible experience with AG Expeditions! From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. The crew was not only professional and knowledgeable, but also genuinely friendly and fun to be around—they made the entire trip even more enjoyable. The equipment was top-notch and clearly well-maintained, which gave us peace of mind and allowed us to fully enjoy the adventure without any worries.
Awesome boat ride along north shore
271ernestk,Jul 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Brand new everything. New semi rigid boat, new twin Suzuki 350s. Helly Hanson rain gear & low profile, auto inflate PFDs. It’s clear the owners put a lot of thought into making this company great. The tour was fun and informative. My kids,13 & 10 years old, loved it. As did my wife and I. GREAT JOB CAPTAINS!
The charm of the North Coast ☀️
Departure22583863740,Jun 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Top experience!! I highly recommend this tour to those who visit this beautiful island or even to those who already live here! Breathtaking landscapes, exceptional guides and super safe and comfortable conditions! AGExpeditions not only takes us to see the North Coast but also offers us adrenaline, a lot of knowledge and a lot of sympathy on the part of your team! A big thank you! We will return for a different turn!
Amazing experience... 👌🙂
Pipeisland,Jun 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing tour to enjoy with your family, and have a glimpse of the beautyness of the north coast São Miguel...Pure fun, amazing team and nice boats and gear...my 7 year old had the time of his life "flying" over the ocean he loved it...a must do tour while you are visiting São Miguel... 👌⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🙂
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Operated by AG Expeditions