August is the peak of the summer season in Ponta Delgada. The weather is hotter than it is at any other time of the year. The air is drier. There is less rain. And the sea is at is warmest too.
But August does come with a little trepidation, as it also marks the start of the hurricane season in this part of the Azores.
As the island sits within the hurricane belt in the Atlantic Ocean, between August and November there is always the risk that a hurricane will develop. And though the chances of a hurricane actually coming close to Ponta Delgada are extremely low, the weather conditions on the island can be impacted by an event nearby.
This means that, though Ponta Delgada is at its driest during August, there are still a forecasted 9 days that are likely to see some rain. And while there are only expected to be 41mm of precipitation throughout the entire month, if there is a hurricane nearby, all this rainfall could fall in just a few hours.
Once the rain does clear, the air is incredibly warm at this time of the year. Average high temperatures reach a very balmy 25°C. The average sea temperatures rise to 24°C, giving everyone the chance to cool off.
The weather in the day is likely to be quite humid, with some days in August averaging up to 90% humidity. However the cool off shore wind will ensure that conditions are far more comfortable than statistics suggest.
And while the days can be humid, nights are forecast to be a lot clearer and temperatures are not usually expected to fall below average lows of 18°C in August. This ensures almost everyone can get a very good night's sleep.
Where to Stay
Make a booking at Solar da Gloria ao Carmo and you may never want to go home. Though this 300 year old manor house is a professionally operated B&B, Eduardo and Jose make you feel more like very welcome house guests. From the warm, comfortable accommodation to the high quality food, everything has been designed to make your stay something to remember. It is within reach of the town either via a 3 mile walk or by car. And two of the most popular beaches in the area can be reached by foot. The apartments are beautifully decorated and fully equipped with everything you need for your stay. And with very competitive peak season prices, even in August, it's very hard to resist.
When the sun is shining over the sea in August, the view from the Hotel Marina Atlantico is simply magnificent. But that's not the only thing that makes this high quality hotel one of the best on the island. Incredible facilities include a fully equipped gym and sauna with pool. And with a high quality restaurant and bar on site, everything has been designed to ensure a memorable stay. Staff are always on hand to make sure you are comfortable, and even give you a choice of pillows to ensure you sleep well. For the best views, book a harbour-side room, then you can wake up to the beauty of Ponta Delgada every day of you holiday.
To stay in Ponta Delgada in the peak season without breaking the budget consider a room at Marina Lounge Hostel. Situated directly on the Marina, the quality of the amenities could mean you mistake the accommodation for a hotel. But when the bill comes, it is strictly hostel prices. Antonio and his team ensure the rooms are beautifully maintained. And though the bathroom is shared by all guests, each stall has its own private changing area. Breakfasts are freshly prepared every morning with delicious cheese pies for those who choose them. You will even receive your own personalised map with all the 'must see' places in Pont Delgada.
Hit the Beach
Praia das Melicias is the closest beach to the centre of Ponta Delgada and also the biggest beach on the entire island. This makes it one of the busiest places to be in the peak summer season. Just 4km from the centre of town, many of its visitors choose to walk to the site before having a rest on the dark sandy beach that stretches for miles. When you get thirsty, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes and hotels nearby offering all types of different refreshment. The lifeguards are also on duty throughout August to ensure a very safe place to swim.
Vinha da Areia beach is a much smaller beach, but with parasols for hire and plenty of amenities, it is still very popular. The surface itself is made from dark volcanic sand, but it is kept impeccably clean. Throughout the peak season, life guards are on duty to ensure everyone remains safe. And though the beach is more of a distance from Ponta Delgada, for those that like their beaches a little more intimate, Vinha da Areia beach is a beautiful alternative.
Restaurants and Nightlife
For a touch of Jazz in Ponta Delgada, head down to Colégio 27. This restaurant mixes the heady sounds of jazz with an equally enticing menu to ensure everyone gets their fill. The restaurant is located within a historic building in downtown Ponta Delgada and combines modern style with traditional flavours to create one of the most popular places in town. Book a table for the full gastronomic experience or just take a seat at the bar to enjoy the cool vibe. With regular live entertainment on offer, it's the place that everyone wants to be seen.
The best way to cool off from that warm August sun has to be with a good ice cream. And in Ponta Delgada, Gelateria Abracadabra is the place to go. There is an amazing variety of flavours to choose from, some even dairy free for those that are intolerant, so that everyone will find something to satisfy. Take a seat outside and watch the world go by while you enjoy your ice cold delights. The prices are very affordable and there is a huge choice of different cones and scoop sizes for every appetite. But once you've got the taste, don't be surprised if you're back every day of your stay.
When you want to sample outstanding traditional cuisine in Ponta Delgada, head down to Restaurante Mariserra. The speciality of the house is seafood. But that doesn't mean you can't get a good steak if you want one. There is a sensational view over the ocean, to create the perfect place to go for lunch or dinner. And if you can't decide what to eat, opt for the 'Mixed Platter' which offers a little something for everyone. The drinks menu is equally as enticing and affordable so there's nothing not to love about Restaurante Mariserra.
Things to Do
One of the most popular, and most exciting, things to do in Ponta Delgada has to be dolphin and whale watching. Take an excursion with Moby Dick tours and you get the chance to see these splendid animals up close. Choose from a four hour trip or an all day excursion. The Moby Dick team have the experience and know how to take you to the sites that will give you the most chance of success. Though the team will do their best to ensure you the closest view possible, their compassion for wildlife is paramount. And on the way back, they even point out a few of the local landmarks, giving you an animal experience and guided tour all in one.
For anyone visiting Ponta Delgada, a trip to Lagoa das Empadadas is an absolute must. Even in the peak month of August, the tranquillity that surrounds the lake is almost tangible. And the beauty of the views unquestionable. Take the footpath next to the lakes to Lagoa Rosa or seek refuge under the trees when the August sun starts to get a little too hot. On a clear day, you can see for miles, and the pictures you can take will become a wonderful memento of your stay.
