The Azores are riding a wave of tourism success this summer, with recent reports showing a significant increase in overnight stays and a bustling calendar of maritime events that highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage. As the islands continue to attract visitors from around the world, new travel deals and international regattas are further boosting the archipelago’s profile as a vibrant destination in the Atlantic.
According to the SREA Tourism Activity report released recently, the Azores recorded 444,800 overnight stays in May 2025 alone. This marks a 3.1% increase compared to May of the previous year, outpacing the national growth rate of 1.3% in Portugal. Over the first five months of 2025, the islands surpassed 1.4 million overnight stays, a remarkable 7.3% rise from the same period last year.
The number of guests visiting the Azores also climbed by 5.2% in May, reaching 136,500 travelers. Visitors stayed an average of 3.26 nights, a 2% increase year-on-year. Notably, more than 70% of overnight stays were by residents abroad, totaling 313,900 stays, which grew by 5.2% compared to May 2024. Meanwhile, the domestic market saw a decline of 5.8%, with 130,900 overnight stays.
International visitors from the United States led the charge, contributing 52,400 overnight stays, an 11.9% increase. Germany and Spain followed closely, with 51,100 and 29,800 overnight stays respectively, both showing modest growth. Other markets with significant year-on-year growth included Israel (42.4%), Poland (40%), and Canada (31.7%). However, some countries like Belgium, Brazil, and the Netherlands experienced notable declines.
When breaking down the accommodation types, hotels accounted for 53% of overnight stays in May, vacation rentals made up 42.3%, and rural tourism, a fast-growing sector, represented 4.7%. Rural tourism recorded the highest growth rate at 15.2%, followed by hotels at 3% and local accommodations at 2.1%. Geographically, São Miguel island dominated with 70.9% of overnight stays in hotels and local accommodation, followed by Terceira, Faial, and Pico.
Adding to the Azores’ appeal, TAP Air Portugal launched a special “island-hopping” sale on July 1, 2025, offering discounted roundtrip fares from the US and Canada to Madeira and the Azores. The promotion runs through July 15 for travel starting September 15. Fares begin at $449 from New York and Newark, with other prices ranging up to $599 from West Coast cities and CAD $549 from Canadian gateways.
Carlos Antunes, TAP Air Portugal’s Director for the Americas, highlighted the allure of these Atlantic islands: “Whether you're seeking volcanic landscapes, lush green mountains, unspoiled trails, or stunning ocean views, these Atlantic gems offer the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.” The sale also includes TAP’s popular Portugal Stopover program, allowing travelers up to 10 days in Lisbon or Porto when connecting flights are booked.
This summer, TAP is operating over 100 weekly flights from 10 North American gateways, including Toronto and Montreal, enhancing accessibility to the Azores and Madeira. The airline’s modern fleet and commitment to sustainability further elevate the travel experience.
Meanwhile, the island of Faial is set to become a hub of maritime celebration with two major international sailing events this July and August. From July 2 to 6, Horta will host the XIII International Azorean Whaleboat Regatta, a biennial event alternating between the Azores and the United States. This year’s edition features the “Regata da Amizade,” a special three-day competition emphasizing the deep historical and cultural ties between the Azores and its diaspora, particularly the Portuguese-American community in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Teams from the Azores and New Bedford will compete in rowing and sailing races, accompanied by a rich cultural program including public sails, youth activities, and heritage exhibits. The Azorean Maritime Heritage Society (AMHS), based in New Bedford and dedicated to preserving Azorean maritime traditions, co-organizes the regatta, maintaining a fleet of authentic 19th-century style whaleboats and fostering transatlantic connections.
Following the whaleboat regatta, the 36th Atlantis Cup – Regata da Autonomia will take place from July 26 to August 3. Organized by Clube Naval da Horta, this prestigious offshore sailing race links the islands of São Miguel, Terceira, Graciosa, and finishes in Horta. The event attracts national and international crews, blending high-level competition with cultural exchange, further cementing Faial’s role as a center for Azorean maritime heritage and tourism.
These developments come at a time when the Azores are experiencing a tourism renaissance, fueled by growing international interest, improved air connectivity, and a commitment to sustainable and culturally rich experiences. The combination of natural beauty, vibrant traditions, and enhanced travel opportunities positions the Azores as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and connection to a unique Atlantic heritage.
With the tourism numbers climbing, new flight deals making travel more accessible, and iconic maritime events drawing global attention, the Azores are not just riding a wave—they are charting a course toward a dynamic and prosperous future in the world of travel and culture.
