White puddle.

Category: Nature > Pond

District: Açores > São Roque do Pico > Prainha

Location

Poça da Branca is located in the parish of Prainha, a coastal point in the municipality of São Roque do Pico. This place invites direct contact with the Atlantic Ocean, integrated into the unique volcanic landscape of Pico Island. Its location offers an unobstructed view of the sea, allowing a glimpse of the island of São Jorge in the distance.

The Natural Pools

This area is characterized by a series of natural pools, sculpted by the continuous action of the sea on volcanic rocks. The black rock formations, emblematic of Pico Island, have been naturally shaped and, in some places, adapted to form pools of various sizes. They invite for peaceful swims, where the proximity to the ocean is felt, but with the safety provided by the rocky barriers that attenuate the force of the waves.

Marine and Coastal Life

In the surroundings of Poça da Branca, the coastal vegetation reveals a part of the richness of Azorean endemic flora, with species adapted to the marine environment. It is possible to observe, for example, the Azorean heather (Erica azorica). Regarding birdlife, it is common to see seabirds such as the Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis) and the Common Tern (Sterna hirundo), which frequent the Azorean coast. In the surrounding waters, although not daily sightings, occasional passages of sea turtles are recorded, namely the Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta), a testament to the local marine biodiversity.

Appreciating the Scenery

Poça da Branca offers a support area next to the pools, a space that has undergone recent improvements. These interventions were designed to increase comfort and safety, making the place even more inviting to enjoy the landscape. It presents itself as an ideal spot for relaxation, with a panoramic view that extends across the vast ocean and the distinct silhouette of São Jorge Island on the horizon, creating a serene environment conducive to contemplation.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt