Praia do Monte Verde, Sand beach in Ribeira Grande, Portugal.
Praia do Monte Verde is a sand beach on the northern coast of São Miguel island, stretching across a considerable expanse. The shore is bounded by steep cliffs and covered with dark volcanic sand that gives it a distinctive character.
The beach was shaped by volcanic activity that formed the entire Azores island chain. Ocean currents have continuously molded the coastline and reshaped it over time.
The beach is woven into the daily life of the local community as a gathering point for those who depend on the sea and its resources. Its proximity to traditional fishing villages ties the place to the maritime culture that shaped the Azores.
The beach is accessible throughout the year and conditions vary by season. Summer months bring warmer water and more visitors, while winter days tend to be quieter with cooler temperatures.
The sand is composed of finely ground volcanic minerals that give the beach its dark color. This geological feature is typical of the Azores, where volcanic activity still visibly shapes the landscape.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
