night tour poça da beija 99.99 entries and dinner included

A Complete Guide to the Night Tour at Poça da Beija in São Miguel

If you’re after an evening filled with relaxation, delicious local cuisine, and a touch of island magic, this night tour in São Miguel might just be your next highlight. Offering a blend of thermal baths, a cozy dinner, and a peaceful visit to the famed Poça da Beija, this experience is tailored for those who want to wind down after a day of exploring. What sets this tour apart is the combination of soothing thermal pools, authentic Portuguese dishes, and small-group intimacy — all wrapped into roughly four hours of pure comfort.

One of our favorite aspects? The dinner is included, with a hearty spread featuring local specialties like stew or tuna, plus drinks. It’s fantastic value for those wanting both a relaxing thermal experience and a taste of local hospitality without fussing over extra costs. That said, a potential consideration is the group size — with a maximum of 20 travelers, it maintains a friendly, intimate atmosphere, but it might feel a bit crowded during peak season.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back evening that combines natural beauty, good food, and cultural insights. If you’re someone who enjoys a balance of relaxation and authentic local experiences, this outing is worth considering. Let’s explore what makes this night tour a standout.

Key Points

• Relaxing thermal baths with pools of various depths, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
• Included dinner features traditional dishes, local cheese, and beverages, making it a true taste of São Miguel’s culinary culture.
• Small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a cozy and more personalized experience.
• Convenient pickup from Ponta Delgada helps streamline your evening plans.
• Authentic insights from knowledgeable guides add depth to your understanding of the island’s traditions.
• Perfect for those who want a stress-free, intimate night out combining nature, food, and culture.

An In-Depth Look at the Night Tour Experience

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

The experience kicks off at 6:00 pm with pickup from your hotel in Ponta Delgada, making it straightforward for most travelers to join without hassle. Once onboard, you’ll likely get a quick overview of the evening ahead from your guide, who, based on reviews, is friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share tips about the island’s sights and traditions.

The first stop is Poça da Dona Beija, a well-loved thermal bath complex renowned for its small pools of varying depths. Reviewers repeatedly mention the pools’ cleanliness and the manageable queues, which are usually short — meaning you won’t spend ages waiting to dip into the warm waters. The pools are open at night, offering a peaceful soak under the stars, which many find incredibly soothing. One reviewer noted that the experience lasts about 1 ½ hours, enough time to enjoy the thermal waters without feeling rushed.

After your thermal bath session, the tour moves to a local eatery for dinner. Expect a hearty, traditional meal, with options including local stew or tuna, served in generous portions. The meal includes drinks such as beer, wine, or water, and often features a cheese appetizer, dessert, and coffee, making it an authentic taste of the island’s flavors. Many reviews highlight the quality and abundance of the food, describing it as “delicious” with “really huge portions.” The guide’s explanations about local food traditions and the island’s culture, as noted by a reviewer, add an informative touch to the evening.

The tour wraps up around 10 pm to 11 pm, with a comfortable drive back to Ponta Delgada. The entire experience, from pools to plates, is designed to deliver a relaxed, memorable night out.

The Thermal Baths: What Travelers Can Expect

Poça da Beija’s pools are often described as small but well-maintained, with varying depths suitable for different comfort levels. The water temperature is naturally warm, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Reviewers appreciated that the pools are mostly occupied by groups or families, but that the atmosphere remains tranquil, with no party-like chaos. One reviewer pointed out that the pools are “mostly groups or some families,” and noted the place is quiet, making it perfect for peaceful soaking.

The pools’ small size and the timing — in the evening — create an intimate, almost private vibe. According to feedback, the pools don’t feel crowded, and visitors enjoy the chance to sit back and enjoy the thermal waters under the night sky. This makes it suitable for travelers who want a relaxing, unhurried experience.

The Dinner: A Taste of Authentic São Miguel

The included dinner is one of the most praised parts of this tour. Reviewers repeatedly mention the “abundant” portions and good quality of the local dishes. The typical menu offers traditional dishes such as stew or tuna, served in hearty servings, along with local cheese and a dessert. Included drinks—beer, wine, or water—add to the convivial atmosphere.

A guest noted, “the dinner was good — included drinks, an appetizer of local cheese, the stew and dessert and coffee!” The emphasis on local cuisine makes this a great opportunity to dive into the island’s flavors without the hassle of finding a good restaurant on your own. The guides often share insights into the dishes and their cultural significance, enriching the overall experience.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

From reviews, we gather that the guides are generally friendly and eager to share local knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that Jose, the guide, was “great,” providing explanations about island traditions and recommending places to visit. Even if some reviews noted language barriers, the warmth and helpfulness of the guides shine through.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. Small groups facilitate more personalized guidance and a relaxed pace. Reviewers say this creates a cozy feeling, often making it feel more like a night out with friends than a large, impersonal tour.

Practicalities: Timing, Transport, Cost

Starting at 6 pm from Ponta Delgada, the timing is well-suited for travelers who want an evening activity without losing a full day elsewhere. The price of $114.63 per person, which includes the thermal bath entry and dinner, offers good value especially considering the convenience and the authentic experience.

The tour is scheduled well in advance, with most bookings happening about 34 days ahead, indicating strong interest and appreciation among past participants.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a relaxing night that balances nature, culture, and cuisine. It suits travelers who enjoy soaking in thermal pools under the stars, tasting local dishes in a welcoming environment, and learning about São Miguel from friendly guides. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer smaller groups and want an intimate, stress-free experience.

If you’re after nightlife or partying, this isn’t the right fit — the atmosphere is more tranquil than lively, with most visitors enjoying a peaceful soak and hearty meal. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers seeking a gentle, authentic evening.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, many reviews mention families and groups enjoying the pools, which are suitable for all ages. Just keep in mind the thermal baths are small pools, so supervision is recommended.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 6:00 pm, with pickup from your hotel, and wraps up around 10-11 pm back in Ponta Delgada.

Are drinks included in the dinner?
Yes, the meal includes drinks like beer, wine, or water, as well as an appetizer, dessert, and coffee.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel on time; later cancellations are non-refundable.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered from Ponta Delgada, and transport tickets are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for thermal pools, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening. The pools are heated, so no special gear is needed.

Is this experience suitable for non-Portuguese speakers?
Most reviews suggest guides are friendly and eager to share insights, though language barriers may exist. Basic understanding of Spanish or Portuguese might enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

This night tour at Poça da Beija offers a well-rounded, relaxing evening for those looking to unwind in São Miguel’s thermal waters, savor hearty local food, and enjoy a small-group setting. The included dinner and the warm pools create a cozy atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful night out.

Priced reasonably for an evening of authentic experiences, the tour’s highlights—friendly guides, delicious food, and tranquil pools—make it a valuable addition to any São Miguel itinerary. Just remember, if you’re after a lively party scene, this might not be your cup of tea. But if genuine relaxation paired with cultural flavor appeals, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression.

In summary, this tour is ideal for those who cherish peaceful surroundings, authentic local dishes, and a chance to soak under the stars. Its intimate size, inclusive nature, and focus on genuine experiences make it a wonderful way to spend an evening in São Miguel.