Sao Miguel is a food lover’s paradise, especially when it comes to lunch experiences. The island’s volcanic soil and fresh Atlantic air produce some of the best ingredients, making every meal a memorable event. Whether you’re craving a hearty cozido stew, a seaside seafood platter, or an adventure that combines nature and cuisine, Sao Miguel offers options that suit every taste and interest. We particularly like the Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas, which mixes stunning scenery with a traditional Azorean lunch of cozido cooked underground—truly a hands-on culinary experience. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Whales & The Princess Ring Islet tour offers a chance to combine marine wildlife sightings with a relaxing seafood lunch.
If you’re after a flexible day with multiple stops, the Van – Laketour – Furnas tour provides a mix of thermal pools, local sweets, and scenic lake views, all with a casual, small-group vibe. Whatever your preference, Sao Miguel’s lunch tours deliver more than just food—they’re a chance to connect with the island’s geography, culture, and natural beauty.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of lunch experiences designed to showcase Sao Miguel’s flavors and scenery. We’ve included full-day tours with cultural bites, whale-watching combined with seaside lunches, and flexible shared excursions exploring Furnas and other highlights. Check out each to find what fits your style:
- Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido)
- Full-Day Whales & The Princess Ring Islet (incl. Lunch)
- Van – Laketour – Furnas – Full Day/ with lunch (Shared)
- Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch
1. Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido) and drinks included
This full-day Jeep tour is a fantastic way to see the highlights of eastern Sao Miguel, especially if you love combining scenic landscapes with local cuisine. Starting from Ponta Delgada, you’ll drive along the northern coast with a small group, making the experience intimate and relaxed. The tour includes visits to hot springs, volcanic craters, and a tea plantation at Gorreana—where you can sample some freshly brewed tea and see how it’s made.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of Furnas Volcano, where you’ll witness the natural process of cooking cozido, a traditional stew prepared underground using volcanic heat. The lunch is part of the experience, served with local drinks, and gives you a taste of authentic Azorean flavors. The hot springs at Poça da Dona Beija are optional but well worth a dip if you want to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Based on over 170 reviews averaging 5 stars, travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Sergio and Mario, who share fascinating stories and island secrets. The tour’s value lies in its all-inclusive approach and the chance to explore diverse landscapes with ease.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want an immersive, full-day experience with scenic views, local food, and cultural insights—all in a relaxed small-group setting.
2. Full-Day Whales & The Princess Ring Islet (incl. Lunch)
For anyone interested in marine life and a seaside lunch, this full-day whale-watching tour from Vila Franca do Campo offers a unique combo of wildlife and scenic beauty. The day kicks off with a boat trip, where marine biologists help you spot dolphins, sperm whales, and beaked whales—even if you don’t see whales, the dolphins are lively company. This experience is enhanced by the opportunity to learn about whale behavior and communication, making it both fun and educational.
After the boat ride, you’ll enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a seafront restaurant. Then, a small fishing boat takes you to the Princess Ring Islet, where you can swim or snorkel in calm waters. The tour’s relaxed pace and focus on wildlife make it ideal for nature lovers.
While reviews mention that whale sightings depend on the season (with higher chances April-June), travelers appreciate the intimate boat experience and the chance to see dolphins up close. It’s a bit pricier at around $135, but the combination of marine wildlife, cultural lunch, and snorkeling justifies the cost.
Bottom line: A great pick for ocean lovers who want a mix of wildlife, coastal scenery, and authentic Azorean seafood—perfect for a full-day adventure.
This shared van tour offers a more flexible and less structured way to explore Sao Miguel’s natural and cultural highlights. It includes stops at Furnas Lake, where you can see the famous hot springs and taste local sweets and pastries like Queijadas da Vila. The tour also visits a ceramic factory, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship, and the Vila Franca do Campo port, where you can savor fresh seafood.
The meal at Furnas features traditional stew and the opportunity to relax in thermal pools, making it a comprehensive experience. The tour is popular with those who prefer a casual, small-group atmosphere, with reviews praising the friendly guides and the variety of stops built into the itinerary.
Cost-wise, at about $83, it offers excellent value, especially considering the multiple locations visited. The flexibility means you can customize your day, and the tour is suitable for travelers who enjoy mixing sightseeing with local food and culture without the rigid structure of a large bus.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers on a budget who want a flexible, multi-stop day absorbing local culture, natural beauty, and thermal relaxation.
4. Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch
This full-day tour combines the thrill of whale and dolphin watching with a visit to a volcanic crater, covering both marine and volcanic wonders. The trip begins with a marine wildlife expedition led by local biologists, aiming to spot pygmy whales, beaked whales, and humpbacks. Even if whale sightings are season-dependent, the dolphins often make an appearance, and the guides provide detailed explanations throughout.
After the ocean adventure, the tour takes you to Lagoa do Fogo—a stunning crater lake—and the surrounding waterfalls and surf beaches. Included in the itinerary is a buffet lunch, which is appreciated for offering local flavors and filling up after a morning at sea.
Rated 4.5/5 with positive reviews about the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sights, this tour is excellent for travelers interested in both wildlife and volcanoes. The €161 price reflects the comprehensive experience, which is perfect if you want an active, educational, and scenic day.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for adventurous travelers eager to combine wildlife with volcanic landscapes and enjoy a hearty, included lunch.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Sao Miguel
When selecting between these options, consider your interests and physical activity level. If you love scenic drives and traditional food, the Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas offers a well-rounded, immersive experience. For wildlife lovers, the Whales & The Princess Islet tour provides a chance to see marine creatures and enjoy fresh seafood. Those seeking flexibility and local culture might prefer the Van – Laketour.
Budget-conscious travelers or those who want a more casual day should look at the shared van tour, while adventurers interested in both volcanoes and marine wildlife will find the Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes tour appealing. Remember to book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Sao Miguel offers a wide range of lunch experiences that are as diverse as the island itself. Whether you want a full day of sightseeing with a hearty cozido, a wildlife voyage with seafood, or a flexible day exploring lakes and hot springs, there’s something for all. For a classic, scenic, and culinary introduction, the Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas stands out. If marine life calls to you, the Whales & The Princess Islet tour is an unforgettable choice.
No matter which adventure you pick, booking early will help you enjoy these authentic experiences without stress. Sao Miguel’s rich landscapes and flavors are waiting—so get planning and enjoy a delicious day on this Atlantic island.