September is considered the last month in the summer season in Ponta Delgada, which means the weather is still very warm with lots of bright sunny days. However, as September progresses, the area does start to get wetter. This means that by the time the month is out, an average of 84mm of rain is likely to have fallen over approximately 13 days. And with the added precipitation, humidity levels can reach up to 90% by the end of the month.
While average temperatures will remain at approximately 21°C throughout the month, September is considered to be part of the hurricane season in this part of the Azores. And though the chances of actually being hit by a hurricane on Sao Miguel are very slight, there is the risk that the weather on the island will be affected by disturbances nearby.
Even with the chance of the odd day of bad weather, average highs can reach up to 24°C at this time of the year in Ponta Delgada. This ensures more good days than bad.
With average sea temperatures still at their peak for the year at approximately 24°C and an average of 8 days of sun forecast every day, there are plenty of good days to be had.
Historically, the Azores have enjoyed some incredible weather at this time of the year. In September 1988 the highest ever recorded temperature for September was reached at 29°C. This means that even when it is hot, the weather in Ponta Delgada still does not get too scorching.
Conversely the coldest weather in September occurred in 2002. But even then the temperature did not fall below 8°C. In the usual year, average low temperatures are usually a far warmer 17°C. This means that, even in the dead of night, Ponta Delgada in September is beautifully warm, if not a little bit soggy.
Where to Stay
The three star Vila Nova Hotel offers the perfect combination of comfort, cleanliness and cost efficiency for anyone looking for somewhere to stay in Ponta Delgada in September. Located within walking distance of the centre of town and many local bars and restaurants, even when the weather isn't so good, there is still plenty to do. All forms of local transport are close at hand, making it possible to explore the entire island from this convenient base. The rooms are compact but well equipped. And the beds are clean and comfortable. On wetter days there is a games room; but when the weather gets hot, everyone wants to be by the pool.
For those that like to stay active on their holidays, the Quinta da Terca comes highly recommended. This beautiful horse farm provides full B&B services to all its visitors, many of which take advantage of the facilities on site. Almost every day your congenial hosts will arrange a horse back tour to some of the island's best spots. And with trainers on hand to provide riding lessons, even if you haven't ridden before, by the end of the week you will be a natural. The rooms are comfortable and very clean. But with dogs and horses all around, you must love animals to stay here. For those that like something a little different from their accommodation, at Quinta da Terca, you can't go wrong.
The entire Antillia Aparthotel is a bit like a Tardis. Squeezed into a very small space, these high quality apartments definitely look bigger on the inside. But when you go through the doors, all the amenities you could possibly want are waiting for you. Indoor and outdoor pools, children's play areas, and a games room are all available, as well as a spa and fully equipped gym. When you combine this with well equipped, good sized apartments, you soon see why this is such a popular place to stay. The location of the hotel is a little more secluded. And though this means a 5-10 minute walk into the centre of town, it does make it much quieter at night. So if you want to sit out on the terrace and enjoy some warm September sun, Antillia Aparthotel is the place to do it.
Hit the Beach
Thanks to the hydrothermal vents found around the village of Ribeira Quente, Praia do Fogo is one of the warmest places to swim on the entire island. These naturally developed vents bring warm volcanic air through the water which provides pockets of heat in the sea. Come in September and you will see the entire beach littered with visitors and locals that want to enjoy the benefits of this rich luxury. And with a well-equipped café lining the long expanse of dark sand, drive to Praia do Fogo and you may never want to leave.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Though you will have to drive approximately 10 minutes from the centre of town to visit Quinta dos Sabores, it is well worth the trip. Located upon an organic small holding, this stylish restaurant is the place where everyone wants to eat. This small, but classy restaurant uses produce from their own gardens to provide an exceptional farm to food experience. There is no menu, just five courses of some of the most delicious food you will ever taste. Complete with the friendliest of staff, eating at Quinta dos Sabores offers an entirely unique event.
Enjoy a lively atmosphere, great tapas and very friendly staff at Taberna Acor. And the prices are pretty incredible too! You can eat and drink all night and still pay less than you ever thought possible. The variety of dishes is mouth-wateringly good. And though cheese is their speciality dish, there are plenty of meat and seafood options too. There is a healthy variety of drinks to wash it all down with to ensure everyone is happy here. The music creates an authentic Azorean atmosphere to provide the basis for a great night out.
Doris Bar is a little laid back café in the centre of the marina district in Ponta Delgada. In the day time sit and drink well flavoured coffee while watching the world go by. Even if you are on your own, there are a range of books on offer to keep you company. In the evening, something a little stronger may take your fancy while you enjoy the ocean view. The staff are friendly and the atmosphere is very laid back. Popular with locals and tourists alike, everyone feels welcome at Doris Bar.
Things to Do
Though the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) have been moved from their original location, a visit to their new site is unmissable. You not only get to see the sheer size of these fabulous structures, but the surrounding area is also very inviting too. Just back from the seafront, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to sit outside and enjoy some September sun. Or wander through the winding side streets and discover the beautiful architecture. As the sun goes down the entire area is lit up by thousands of twinkling coloured lights. Day or night, it is the perfect place to be.
Get in touch with your spiritual side in Ponta Delgada by taking a Holistika tour. Not only will your fabulous guides be able to show you the best places in Sao Miguel, but they will also open your mind to a much deeper side of the geography below you. This is an introduction to mindfulness and wellbeing whilst giving you an experience you will never want to forget. Walk through waterfalls, swim with dolphins and take a journey that will change the inner you. Every tour is adapted to your own personal needs in the hope that you will leave Ponta Delgada feeling better than you ever have before.
