June is still considered spring time in Ponta Delgada with the summer weather not arriving until July. But, even though it is still early in the season, the climate can still be very accommodating for all those that choose to stay.
June is one of the driest months of the year in this part of the Azores, forecasting only 39mm of rain to fall over a total of 10 days in the month. And as the wettest month of the year usually forecasts up to 135mm of rain, the precipitation expected in June is considered very slight.
This is a popular month of the year to visit the region as average temperatures reach up to 18°C on a daily basis, with peak temperatures usually averaging up to 21°C. However it is still far enough away from the hurricane season to ensure lots of pleasant weather, as this usually starts in August.
The chance of a cloudy day in Ponta Delgada in June is just 16%. And with an average of 9 hours of daily sunshine, the weather is bright, dry and very welcoming.
Even the coolest temperatures in the region still average a very mild 15°C, creating the ideal conditions to enjoy the nightlife across the island, or a late alfresco meal.
In recorded history, temperatures have not fallen below 10°C in Ponta Delgada at this time of the year, even in the dead of night. This means the climate is mild and enjoyable 24 hours per day.
June is also the month when the sea starts to benefit from some extra warmth. Though May will have experienced a single degree increase in warmth from the winter average of 17°C. By the time June comes around, the average sea temperature will be at a much more welcoming 20°C, ready for visitors and residents to hit the beach.
Where to Stay
Though the Royal Garden Hotel is a four star hotel, prices are still very affordable in June. The hotel offers two swimming pools, spa facilities, a tennis court and a high quality restaurant to ensure its guests are fully entertained no matter what the weather. The live piano music in the bar creates a beautiful ambience in the evenings. And with helpful staff on call throughout the day and night, nothing is ever too much trouble. The rooms are clean, spacious and open up to the beautiful sun light streaming through good sized windows. And with easy access to the local points of interest and the many bars and restaurants in the area, when you stay at the Royal Garden Hotel, you will never be left wanting.
Though the Azorean Urban Lodge considers itself a hostel, every room is privately occupied and comes with its own en-suite bathroom. Yet the prices are something you would expect from the most basic accommodation. Instead, you can enjoy an onsite swimming pool, a large well equipped kitchen to cook your meals, and a light, bright eating area. For the ultimate Urban Lodge experience, book the chimney room which has a skylight enabling you to look up to the stars. The host is always on hand to help you enjoy your stay, and will ensure you never want to base yourself anywhere else on a visit to Ponta Delgada.
Though Quinta da Abelheira is considered to be located within Ponta Delgada, it is not actually possible to reach the centre of town without a car unless you want a very long walk. But this out of the way situation ensures a level of peace and tranquillity that is not possible in the more urban areas. Even in the peak season, the atmosphere is very quiet, offering plenty of time to relax in the pool or meander around the beautiful gardens. Enjoy a full Portuguese breakfast on the sun terrace and feel the warmth of the June day. The rooms are well decorated, beautifully spacious and utterly relaxing. A stay at Quinta da Abelheira is an experience you will never want to forget
Hit the Beach
Take the steep stairs that have been carved into the cliff to reach Caloura Beach in Sao Miguel, and enjoy excellent seclusion from all the gustiest winds. Thanks to its relative inaccessibility, this beach can be a lot quieter than many other resorts in the area. But with a natural swimming pool close by, you will never be on your own. There are no amenities directly on the sand, so it is wise to take everything you need with you. And when you've finished on the beach, explore the local fishing village and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Praia da Viola is another beach flanked by cliffs on either side, providing natural protection from the winds. And with a combination of coarse sand and stones underneath, it may not be the most comfortable place to sunbathe, but its beauty is undeniable. The beach is a challenge to get to, so it is not one of the most popular on the island. But with a well-used hiking trail incorporating this site, there are always plenty of people around. As there are no facilities onsite it is best to be well-prepared. But when you want a quiet day by the sea with nothing much but a good book, Praia da Viola is the place to go.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Get a taste of Ponta Delgada nightlife at Dinu's Bar. The drinks are well priced, the atmosphere is buzzing and the music is always good. You can even watch a film with a nice cold glass of what you fancy in hand. Located within the marina, Dinu's is very popular with the student crowd but it isn't too loud or raucous. Instead it's a place to hang out with friends or have a coffee in the day and spend some quality time in Ponta Delgada.
For a tapas bar that is as popular with the locals as it is with visitors, head down to A Tasca. This small, but friendly restaurant is always busy, so you must book well in advance. But if you do go down on a whim, go nice and early and there is every chance you may find a seat. Incredible flavours, fabulous variety and an eating experience you won't get anywhere else is served with a great variety of drinks. High quality food, without pretention or high prices means everyone will want to go back.
Though Conves describes itself as a pub, this venue offers far more than just a traditional drink at the bar. With a lively atmosphere and many different themed nights, it's a great place to go with your friends or to meet new ones. Step on deck with their decidedly nautical themed décor. But make sure you book ahead of time if you want a table in June. With children and groups welcome, this is a place to come and relax and enjoy all that Ponta Delgada has to offer. Day or night, Conves will show you a good time.
Things to Do
Museu Militar dos Acores is one of the only Museums on the entire island of Sao Miguel, but it is an experience that should not be missed. Based within the fort, this military museum displays an incredible range of historic artefacts from the colonial wars, world wars and many other more local disputes. You are perfectly welcome to touch the exhibits or pick them up, which makes for some weird and wonderful photographs. And the good nature of the museum staff transcends to the witty nature of the tour that is offered. For a few Euros this museum provides a fabulous insight into the military capabilities across Portugal, and can be an entertaining way to get out of the showers in June.
While the mountainous terrain of Sao Miguel provides much protection from the harsh weather for Ponta Delgada, it also provides some excellent opportunities for climbing in the Azores. Even if you've never attempted rock climbing before, the expert team at Azores Adventure Islands can give you an introduction that could make you an avid climber in no time. All safety equipment is provided as part of your adventure with differing levels of altitude to suite your preference. And once you've been once, don't be surprised if you're hooked. It's a great way to see the world.
