Azores vs. Hawaii: Which Volcanic Island Escape is Right for You?
When you picture lush islands rising out of the sea, steaming calderas, and hikes through jungle-lined cliffs, Hawaii might be the first destination that comes to mind. But if you’re after a more peaceful, less-touristy alternative that still checks all the adventure boxes, Portugal’s Azores might just surprise you.
I recently spent time solo traveling around São Miguel and came home wondering: Is this Europe’s answer to Hawaii?
Let’s dive into the comparison—and everything you need to know to decide which one is right for your next island adventure.
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
LANDSCAPES & NATURAL BEAUTY
Azores:
Equally volcanic, but with a moody Atlantic vibe. Picture rolling green hills dotted with cows, crater lakes, natural hot springs, and hydrangea-lined roads. It’s impossibly green, wild, and deeply peaceful. No high-rise resorts, just timeless nature and small villages.
Hawaii:
Think volcanic cliffs plunging into turquoise water, red sand beaches, lush valleys, and lava flows that still shape the landscape. Each island is distinct: Big Island is raw and rugged, Maui is lush and polished, Oahu blends city and surf, and Kauai is remote and green.
Verdict:
Hawaii feels more epic and cinematic. The Azores feel intimate, mysterious, and calming.
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
HIKING & ADVENTURE
Azores:
The Azores are more for quiet adventurers—hiking crater rims, swimming in geothermal pools, spotting whales, canyoning through waterfalls, or soaking in steaming springs post-hike. There’s even diving and paragliding, but it’s all slower-paced and less commercial.
Hawaii:
You can surf, snorkel, dive with manta rays, hike through volcanic parks, and trek ridgelines that drop into the sea. Hawaii is built for thrill-seekers and beach lovers alike.
Verdict:
Hawaii wins for variety and high-adrenaline options. The Azores are perfect for hikers, solo travellers, and wellness-seekers.
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
DRIVABILITY, LANGUAGE & NAVIGATION
Azores:
You’ll definitely want a rental car to fully explore. Roads are narrow in places but well-maintained. You drive on the right, and most signage includes English. Portuguese is the official language, but most hospitality workers speak at least basic English, and Google Translate works well if needed.
Hawaii:
You’ll need a car to explore most islands. Roads are generally wide, signage is clear, and you drive on the right side. English is the official language, so it’s super easy to get around.
Verdict:
Both are very drivable. The Azores feel more rural and may require a bit more confidence on narrow roads, but navigation is easy and safe. And honestly, the Road to Hana in Maui is no cakewalk either, nothing in the Azores felt that nerve wracking.
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
TRAVEL LOGISTICS FROM NORTH AMERICA
Azores:
Direct flights are limited but growing. Boston, Toronto, and New York all have seasonal direct flights to São Miguel (Ponta Delgada). Otherwise, connect through Lisbon. Travel time from the U.S. East Coast is around 5–6 hours—similar to a red-eye to Europe.
Hawaii:
Direct flights from nearly every major U.S. and Canadian city. Easy connections. No passport required for Americans.
Verdict:
Hawaii is easier logistically. The Azores require a bit more planning but is surprisingly accessible from the East Coast.
WHERE TO STAY IN THE AZORES
Whether you’re solo, a couple, or family adventurers, here are a few hand-picked options:
São Miguel (Main Island)
Landescape Furnas – Perfect for solo travelers or couples. Gated, peaceful, walkable to Furnas village, with an on-site pool, sauna, Turkish bath, and in-room breakfast. My personal favorite!
Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort – Located on the north shore with direct beach access. Modern, eco-luxury feel. Great for couples or families.
Octant Ponta Delgada – Chic and urban, with a rooftop pool and marina views. Great if you want to be right in the city.
Landescape Furnas, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
COST & VALUE
Azores:
Incredibly affordable by comparison. Boutique hotels for under €150/night, delicious local meals for €10–15, and inexpensive rental cars if booked in advance (especially automatics).
Hawaii:
Expect premium pricing on everything—hotels, rentals, food, and excursions. A mid-range hotel can easily run $400+ per night, and car rentals are often overbooked.
Verdict:
Azores are a far better value overall, especially for longer stays or budget-conscious travellers.
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
VIBE, CULTURE & SAFETY
Azores:
The Azores feel like stepping back in time—in the best way. Locals are warm and community-oriented. I felt completely safe as a solo female traveler. Petty crime is almost unheard of, even in rural areas. The islands maintain a deep respect for nature, and tourism hasn’t diluted the culture.
Hawaii:
Friendly, multicultural, and vibrant—but parts of the islands are overwhelmed by tourism. Petty theft can be a concern in tourist hotspots, and over-tourism is an ongoing issue.
Verdict:
Both are safe, but the Azores win for authenticity and peaceful energy. Ideal for solo travellers , introverts, and nature seekers.
PACKING LIST FOR THE AZORES
Must-Haves:
Lightweight rain jacket (it rains often, even in sunshine)
Trail runners or waterproof hiking shoes
Layers (weather shifts quickly)
Bathing suit (for hot springs and ocean swims)
Reusable water bottle
Quick-dry towel
Power adapter (Type F, standard European)
Offline Google Maps download
Hiking poles (optional but handy on slippery trails)
FINAL VERDICT: WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Choose Hawaii if:
You want big beaches, big waves, and a more Americanized vacation
You’re planning a quick getaway, surf trip, or classic tropical escape
You prefer sunshine and vibrant nightlife over tranquility
Choose the Azores if:
You love hiking, solitude, and geothermal wonders
You want something slower-paced, more affordable, and less touristy
You’re a solo traveler or wellness seeker who values peace over crowds
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
My Take?
I love Hawaii. But the Azores gave me something I didn’t know I needed—space, quiet, a slower pace, and pure connection to nature. It felt safe, beautiful, and untouched. And best of all? I didn’t have to fight for a parking spot at every scenic lookout or share a hot spring with 50 other people.
If you’re craving a grounded escape where cows outnumber cars and volcanoes meet the sea, give the Azores a chance. You might just fall in love.
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal
