Ponta Delgada, The Capital of Sao Miguel

I always enjoy visiting Ponta Delgada when I go to Sao Miguel. Walking along the streets and soaking up the history and culture can be a lot of fun. No matter what time of year I go, I spend a good amount of time in the city checking out the storefronts and enjoying the restaurants.

The city has a rich heritage with a town charter dating back to 1499. Historically the Azores were a hub of activity for transatlantic travel and trade. Ponta Delgada became San Miguel's main port and there are many reminders in the city of its early roots.

Of course, the city has evolved over the past 500 years and has the amenities that you would look for in any city of its size (about 100,000 residents). Even though there are modern comforts, the architecture harkens back to the old days including the cobblestone roads!

The Avenue, Waterfront and Marina

Walking along the avenue on the waterfront is an enjoyable experience at any time of year. There is always a lot of activity along the avenue. I enjoy the activity whether it is from the locals going about their day, a ship arriving in the marina (including the occasional cruise ship), and maybe an exhibition or concert at Portas do Mar.

Marina

The Marina is a focal point of the city and avenue.

Swimming

If you are in Ponta Delgada and want to go for a swim, it is not hard to find a spot!  This is on the avenue at Portas do Mar / the marina. You can swim in the pool or in the ocean water. Both are quite popular as you can see from the next picture.

The City Streets

Many of the streets are cobblestone and meticulously maintained. There is no shortage of shops and restaurants to visit all along the streets.

This picture was taken in December and there are Christmas decorations overhead

Cafes and Restaurants

There are many cafes, restaurants and bars to choose from. My favourite restaurant is called "Nacional" and is located close to the post office. And my favourite cafe is pictured next. There isn't a lot of indoor seating at this cafe, but there is a good seating area outside.

Churches

There are plenty of churches anywhere you go in the Azores, and Ponta Delgada has many of them. I put a couple of pictures here of a few of the churches

If you want to find one of the most peaceful spots in the city, and enjoy great views, check out Mae de Deus church pictured below

I have not included pictures of the shopping centers in the city or of the storefronts along the streets. There are two shopping centers in the city. The largest is called Parque Atlantico and the other is Solmar Center. Solmar Center is on the avenue close to the marina and offers a free wi-fi spot.

For more pictures take a look at these Azores Photos of Ponta Delgada and some Night time photos

And for more about the island, visit Sao Miguel Azores.

And finally, for more information about the Azores, visit the www.magical-azores-islands.com home page for links to information about all of the islands

Even More Pictures Of Ponta Delgada!

The picture above is taken from the steps of City Hall.

I've always loved the tree in the picture below. It is at the courtyard on the east end of the Avenue. (near the fort and the convent)

The photo above is of the brewery where Especial beer is made. The beer is on tap in many places in Sao Miguel. I enjoy it very much.

The photo below is from a restaurant in front of St Sebastien Church. It is is one of many places to congregate in the evening.