Mosteiros Beach

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Açores > Ponta Delgada > Mosteiros > Lombas

Location

Praia dos Mosteiros is located on the western coast of São Miguel island, nestled within the small and picturesque village of Mosteiros, in the Lombas area. This fishing village, part of the municipality of Ponta Delgada, is situated in an area shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, which gave rise to its unique surroundings.

Its position offers a unique perspective on the ocean and the island's coastline.

The Black Sand and Volcanic Essence

Distinctive for its dark sand, Praia dos Mosteiros is a testament to the volcanic activity that characterizes the Azores. This basaltic sand gives the beach a unique appearance, creating a striking contrast with the blue of the Atlantic and the intense green of the surrounding landscapes. The beach itself is a fajã, a natural coastal formation resulting from the cooling of lava flows in contact with the sea, forming a platform along the shoreline.

Along the length of the beach, it is possible to observe the presence of two small freshwater streams, which descend from the slopes of the mountains further east.

The Islets and the Sun's Spectacle

On the horizon of Praia dos Mosteiros, four prominent rock formations rise, known as the Mosteiros Islets. These outcrops are the remnants of an ancient island that emerged from a hydromagmatic eruption, located approximately one kilometre from the coast. Their silhouette is a constant and distinctive presence in the maritime landscape, being the source of legends that associate them, for example, with the gates of the mythical Atlantis. The name "Mosteiros" itself is attributed to the resemblance of one of the rocks to a church.

This natural setting is widely recognized as one of the island's most remarkable spots for contemplating the sunset. The sun's descent behind the islets provides a spectacle of colours in the sky, making the beach a chosen spot for photography enthusiasts and for those seeking a moment of serene beauty at the end of the day.

For Sea Lovers

With clear and inviting waters, Praia dos Mosteiros offers ideal conditions for various water activities. It is a sought-after place for swimming and enjoying the mild ocean temperature. The clarity of the water around the islets invites underwater exploration, being favourable for snorkelling and diving, where a diversity of marine life can be observed.

Its waves also attract surfers, who find a challenging spot here for the sport, especially when sea conditions are more intense. The beach is frequented by both locals and visitors seeking an authentic contact with nature and the Azorean Atlantic.

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