Things To Do
in Rabo de Peixe

Rabo de Peixe is a picturesque fishing village located on the northern coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal. Known for its vibrant culture and stunning coastal views, the village serves as a gateway to explore the natural beauty of the island. With its rich maritime history, Rabo de Peixe is a charming spot to experience local traditions and the slower pace of island life.

Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and engage with the friendly locals, making it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Azorean culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Rabo de Peixe
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some fresh local produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the nearby coastline, enjoying breathtaking views and learning about the village's fishing history.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant to enjoy traditional dishes while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike to the nearby Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake nestled in the mountains, for a morning of breathtaking views and tranquility.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Rabo de Peixe, followed by a stroll along the picturesque coastline.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed evening at a local bar, where you can sample regional wines and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within the village)$10
🏨Hotel per night$80
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and scenery
  • Rich local culture and friendly residents
  • Delicious fresh seafood and culinary experiences
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Occasional rain can disrupt outdoor plans
  • Access to some areas may require transportation
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde está o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Rabo de Peixe

Visit one of these nice places.

Lagoa do Fogo

A stunning crater lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering breathtaking views that are perfect for landscape photography.

Coastal Cliffs

The dramatic cliffs along the coast provide picturesque backdrops for capturing the beauty of Rabo de Peixe's natural landscape.

Local Fishing Docks

The docks come alive in the early morning with fishermen bringing in their catch, providing excellent candid photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rabo de Peixe

Rabo de Peixe offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Azorean dishes that reflect the island's rich maritime heritage.

Rabo de Peixe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Caldeirada

A hearty fish stew made with various types of fish, potatoes, and vegetables, seasoned with local herbs.

Must-Try!

Lapas

Grilled limpets served with garlic and lemon, representing a popular local delicacy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rabo de Peixe Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rabo de Peixe experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year but is most frequent in winter months. Coastal breezes can moderate temperatures, making it pleasant year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Locals

A friendly handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time, often accompanied by a warm smile.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations; personal space is valued in the local culture.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat, and it's polite to finish everything on your plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rabo de Peixe is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Always have emergency numbers handy, and consider travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Rabo de Peixe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, especially if the service was exceptional.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days are perfect for beach visits and hiking, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

A beautiful time with cooler weather and stunning fall colors, great for hiking and exploring the local scenery.

Winter

Cool and rainy, but still a great time to experience the local culture; be sure to pack warm clothing.

Nightlife Guide

Rabo de Peixe at Night

Rabo de Peixe has a laid-back nightlife scene that revolves around cozy bars and local music venues. While there are not many nightclubs, you can find bars featuring live music, particularly traditional Fado. Locals enjoy gathering in these establishments to socialize and unwind after a long day, often with regional wines and cocktails.

Hiking in Rabo de Peixe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Salto do Cabrito Trail

A beautiful trail leading to stunning waterfalls, offering a refreshing hike surrounded by lush vegetation.

Furnas Trail

This trail leads to the famous Furnas hot springs, allowing hikers to experience geothermal activity amidst beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Rabo de Peixe by plane.

João Paulo II Airport (PDL)

Located approximately 15 km from Rabo de Peixe, this airport serves as the main gateway to São Miguel, offering international flights and connections across Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rabo de Peixe is a small village, making it very walkable. Most attractions, shops, and eateries are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably on foot. The flat terrain is easy to navigate, and the friendly locals encourage a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant demographic group in Rabo de Peixe, local fishermen play a crucial role in the village's economy and cultural identity.

Tourists

With its scenic beauty and cultural experiences, Rabo de Peixe attracts many tourists seeking an authentic Azorean experience.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and community games bringing people together.

Surfing

Given the region's coastal location, surfing is a popular activity, particularly among younger locals and tourists, with several surf schools available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rabo de Peixe is minimal, as it is a small village with narrow streets. Public transportation options include buses to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to explore the island. Visitors can also find taxis, but walking is the preferred method of getting around for most. Traffic congestion is not an issue here.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rabo de Peixe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood dominates the local cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as hearty vegetable stews.

Gluten-Free Options

Though traditional bread is common, some restaurants provide gluten-free alternatives and focus on fresh produce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Rabo de Peixe is satisfactory, with a local health center providing essential medical services. For more specialized care, larger hospitals are available in nearby Ponta Delgada, which is about 15 kilometers away. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide