March is considered the last month of winter in Ponta Delgada, which means there are many signs of spring weather just waiting to burst through.
After the coldest month of the year, February, average temperatures start to regain some ground, achieving 14°C throughout this month. And with average high temperatures nearing 16°C on an almost day basis, the consistent mild warmth is something that can definitely be relied upon.
Even the average low temperatures are still a very welcoming in March. An average low of 11°C means that, as long as you have an extra layer to hand, you should never get cold in the Azores.
March also sees a further drop in the level of rainfall in the region. Though there will still be approximately 17 days of the month that will experience some precipitation, only 106mm of rain are expected to fall throughout the entire month. This means the majority of the wet weather will have fallen by the end of March and the region can then start to get much drier in the run up to summer.
Ponta Delgada enjoys up to 7 daily hours of sunshine in March, offering the perfect environment for walking, hiking or horse riding through the region. And though cold northerly winds can be an issue if you venture further up the island, the Sao Miguel mountain ranges ensure Ponta Delgada stays well protected all year round.
Temperatures have been known to climb to as high as 25°C in March in Pont Delgada, with the highest ever temperature recorded in March 1987. However, with average sea temperatures remaining at their winter average of 17°C, it may still be too cold for most people to swim. But for those that enjoy the range of other water activities on offer, March is a great time to visit.
Where to Stay
For high quality accommodation in Ponta Delgada that won't break the budget, try the Sao Miguel Park Hotel. Most rooms benefit from a sea view, and with plenty of amenities within the spacious area, every visitor should be satisfied. From the friendliness of the staff to the delicious meals served in the restaurant, this hotel is perfect for those on a budget. The fitness centre and indoor pool are incredibly popular, especially in the cooler days in March. But when the weather is accommodating, all the best sites and locations are just a short walk away.
The Quinta das Hortencias is named after one of the wonderful flowers that frame the ocean view from this B&B. Though the rooms are spacious and well cleaned, and the service is incredibly friendly, it's what you see out of the windows that makes it so special. Outstanding images of the ocean will greet you morning, noon and night, which change as the weather conditions differ. In a heavy shower the rain falling over the water is an incredible sight. Or when the sun pours through the windows, you know it is time to go out and explore. Offering exceptional value for those that like to see a more natural side of the island, Quinta das Hortencias should never be over looked.
For the more environmentally aware traveller, there is really nowhere better to stay in Ponta Delgada than Quinta do Bom Despacho. Located just outside the centre of the town, Quinta do Bom Despacho offers sustainable holidays for all their visitors. The accommodation is set on an organic farm which even offers you the opportunity to pick your own fruit and vegetables. Or take a dip in the natural swimming pond, especially as those March days start to get warmer. Enjoy a walk around the sensory garden or a picnic in one of the many outside areas. Inside, the spacious rooms are beautifully decorated ensuring every day at Quinta do Bom Despacho is a time to cherish.
Restaurants and Nightlife
If you want to enjoy steak as only the Portuguese know how, book a table at Calcada Do Cais. This beautiful restaurant is situated right in the centre of the town to ensure you can enjoy a good lunch or a delightful evening meal. A well-rounded wine list means you can always find the right drink to accompany your meal. Even if steak isn't to your taste, vegetarian and fish dishes are also on offer. The food is innovative and stylish, which matches the décor of the restaurant and provides everyone with a gastronomic experience that you will definitely want to repeat.
New owners and new décor mean that even if you have eaten in Ristorante Mimo.IT before, now is a good time to go back. A new menu, fresh attitude and a fantastic approach to authentic Italian cuisine ensures this restaurant is firmly back on the map. Prices are a little higher than other local restaurants, but that simply reflects the quality of the final dish. Choose a small romantic table or eat as a big group. The menu is small and simple, and all meals are cooked with the freshest ingredients. When you've had enough of traditional local fare, Ristorante Mimo.IT offers something entirely different.
Those who go to 4 Platanos do so to enjoy exceptionally delicious fresh fish dishes whilst looking over one of the best views of Ponta Delgada. This ocean based restaurant boasts an incredible bay window which offers an almost panoramic view of the sea. For lunch or dinner, make sure you book, as this restaurant is busy every day of the year. But when you sample their signature fish stew for the first time, you will soon see why. Really helpful service in a friendly atmosphere means 4 Platanos is filled with locals and visitors alike. And with so many different flavours to choose from, you will want to come back again and again.
Things to Do
Moinho do Pico Vermelho is one of the very few perfectly restored windmills on the island and is the only one that is still functional. Set in its own small village, this wonderful monument is a testament to the craftsmanship that still exists on Sao Miguel, ensuring their past heritage lives on. Though the host does not speak English, he is always happy to guide you around this wonderful structure. And as it is based on one of the most scenic spots in Ponta Delgada, you can enjoy the experience of the windmill with some great photo opportunities too.
Horse riding is almost a national pass time in Ponta Delgada and a great way to see more of the area. For those that are not too experienced with horses Quinta das Raiadas offer an introductory ride, which will still give you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the local area. For the younger guests or those that don't want to ride themselves, a horse drawn cart means no one has to miss out. But for those will a little more experience, there is a full day tour, with lunch included. This means you can spend a full 6 hours with these wonderful animals and enjoy some of the most spectacular sights in the Azores.
