Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara — Attraction in Ribeira Grande

Very picturesque area, with a kind of sand beach, even though the sand features a somewhat darker color. However, on Sâo Miguel Island, where the basalt and lava rocks dominate, Santa Bárbara is a big deal. After the sand excavation was banned in the early 1990s, the area became very popular with the surfing crowd as well as with the aficionados of other water sports such as bodyboarding. At the right of the sign "Casamatas ao Areal de Santa Bárbara" note the circular-shaped platform nestled among the lava rocks; the spot was used by the British gunners for shore defense against German U-boats. There is an ample parking adjacent. The local beach restaurant is currently (early July 2022) under...

Beautiful beach! There are lifeguards on duty that do a great job to keep everyone safe. Rip currents are an issue here but they are diligent and also warn you when they see a Portuguese man o war or jellyfish. They have jellyfish relief if you do get stung. There are no chairs or umbrellas so bring your own equipment. There is a surf school here or it's also entertaining to watch them. Swimming in allowed in a designated area safe from rip currents. It's a grey sand beach but very beautiful. You can walk along the coast in low tide and go through the lava rocks, would recommend! Sunset here is...

Really beautiful and easily accessible beach! Around 10 minutes drive from Ribeira Grande. Lots of places to eat around, free showers and seating that are free to use. Free parking and no entry fees are also very pleasant. The volcanic sand and green cliffs make for a really gorgeous view anywhere on the beach too! Near the end of the beach where to hotel is located you can also find some smaller sand dunes. Lifeguards are also present. Although the waves can get a little rough to swim I’d definitely recommend anyone to visit here! Beautiful and...