Santa Cruz das Flores is a small town with a big reputation when it comes to excursions and marine adventures. Its location on the westernmost island of the Azores makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby islands like Corvo, as well as the lush coastline and caves of Flores. One of our favorite aspects of this area is how its ocean-centered experiences allow you to see the rugged coastlines, underwater life, and volcanic landscapes that define the Azores. Whether you’re into boat trips, diving, or nature hikes, Santa Cruz offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and energy levels.
For those who want a comprehensive day on the water, the Passeios Turísticos: Trip to Corvo by Boat stands out, combining island exploration with marine encounters. If you prefer a quick but immersive outing, the Flores: Caves, Waterfalls, and Snorkelling offers a brief but memorable adventure focusing on Flores’ underwater life and caves. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which experience fits your trip best.
1. Passeios Turísticos: Trip to Corvo by Boat
At number one, this full-day sea excursion takes you to Corvo Island, known for its dramatic volcanic crater and untouched landscapes. The tour lasts about 7.5 hours and costs $41 per person, making it an accessible way to visit a less crowded part of the Azores. The boat trip is the centerpiece, with the chance to see dolphins (though no guarantees), and the crew is experienced in spotting marine life.
Once on Corvo, you’ll explore the island’s crater hike and visit the caldera’s rim, which offers spectacular views over the island’s black volcanic terrain. The boat also takes you around Flores Island, where you’ll see caves and rugged coastlines. The tour’s highlights include visiting caves, which have served as shelters for pirates and explorers, and having time to enjoy the island’s quiet beauty.
Guests praise this tour for its professional crew and excellent organization, with reviews mentioning the fun boat ride and the unforgettable scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy marine adventure, island hiking, and discovering remote places. The combination of caves, marine life, and island vistas makes this trip a well-rounded option.
Bottom Line: If you want an affordable, comprehensive day with a mix of boat adventure and island exploration, this tour delivers excellent value and memorable scenery.
2. TRIP TO CORVO BY BOAT
This 7-hour boat trip is perfect for those who want a shorter, focused experience around Flores and a day trip to Corvo. It costs around $41 (check availability for exact times), and its main appeal is the chance to see Flores’ waterfalls, caves, and stunning landscapes from the water. The tour emphasizes exploring the caves and waterfalls and includes a visit to Corvo Island, making it a versatile option.
The tour has received glowing reviews, with travelers describing it as “really fun,” “beautiful,” and “unforgettable.” Many are impressed by the expert boat crew and the opportunity to see marine wildlife and waterfalls up close. One reviewer noted, “The boat ride with Fabio and Susana was a highlight,” emphasizing the personal touch and knowledgeable guides.
This trip is especially suitable for nature lovers who want a quick but scenic outing, offering the chance to sample Corvo’s volcanic beauty without a full-day commitment. The trip also includes a hike to the top of the crater, which many find a highlight despite the limited time.
Bottom Line: For travelers short on time but eager for a rich, scenic experience on the water, this tour balances adventure with ease.
3. Flores: Caves, Waterfalls and Snorkelling
If exploring Flores’ underwater world and caves sounds appealing, this 2-hour tour offers a compact adventure for $69 per person. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, active experience and don’t mind getting their feet wet. The tour focuses on snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, discovering caves that once sheltered pirates, and exploring the bay of Ribeira da Cruz, the island’s first settlement.
The highlight is snorkelling in waters full of colorful marine life and vibrant coral. The caves are another key feature, offering a peek into the secrets of Flores’ shoreline — a landscape that’s been shaped by volcanic activity and sea erosion. The tour guides are passionate about the local environment, providing insights into the history and ecology of the area.
While it’s a shorter tour, it offers a rich sensory experience for those interested in marine life and caves. Reviewers love the clarity of the water and the chance to see marine species in their natural habitat. It’s best suited for active travelers or families with kids who enjoy water-based activities.
Bottom Line: For a short but lively adventure in Flores, this snorkeling and cave exploration tour provides great value and a memorable splash of nature.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best experience depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you’re after a full-day adventure, the Passeios Turísticos: Trip to Corvo by Boat offers a comprehensive mix of marine and island exploration. For a shorter, scenic trip, the Trip to Corvo by Boat provides a quick but rich experience with waterfalls and caves. If underwater exploration is your priority, then the Flores: Caves, Waterfalls and Snorkelling tour is ideal for a focused, active outing.
Consider your fitness level—hiking Corvo’s crater is more strenuous than snorkelling in Flores’ calm waters. Budget-wise, all tours are reasonably priced, but the shorter tour offers quick access to key sights at a lower time commitment.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular trips. Check availability and weather conditions beforehand, as ocean tours can be affected by wind and rain.
Final Thoughts
Santa Cruz das Flores offers a diverse array of marine and island experiences that showcase the rugged beauty of the Azores. The Passeios Turísticos: Trip to Corvo by Boat is perfect for those seeking an all-day adventure, while the Flores: Caves, Waterfalls and Snorkelling appeals to active travelers eager to explore marine life. Meanwhile, the shorter, scenic trip to Corvo offers a taste of volcanic island life in just a few hours.
No matter which you choose, these tours open a window into the authentic natural beauty and marine richness of the Azores. Early booking and clear travel plans will ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences. So pack your sense of adventure and enjoy the sea, caves, waterfalls, and volcanic vistas — Santa Cruz das Flores has plenty to offer.