According to forum posts, São Miguel is highly recommended by many users due to its size and variety of activities. It's suggested for longer stays (at least 4-5 days) to fully explore its landscapes, such as Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Terceira is also suggested for its unique bull runs and natural beauty.

Some travelers have highlighted specific natural attractions. For instance, the miradouro at Boca do Inferno near Sete Cidades offers stunning views and requires only a short walk. Additionally, the hot spring baths and the walk at Lagoa do Furnas on São Miguel are popular.

For those interested in marine activities, São Miguel and Pico are recommended for whale watching, with specific companies like Whale Watching TERRA AZUL praised for their services. Pico, alongside Faial, is also recommended for diving, especially near the Princess Alice banks known for its diverse marine life.

According to forum posts, travelers looking for accommodation in Sao Miguel have varied preferences. Some prefer staying in less populated areas to enjoy nature, while others opt for locations like Ponta Delgada for its proximity to restaurants and attractions. Travelers often use platforms like Airbnb to find suitable stays, especially when traveling in large groups or seeking specific amenities like multiple bathrooms or a pool.

Some travelers recommended the Hotel Talisman in Ponta Delgada, noting its charm and convenient location within walking distance to attractions and restaurants. Although it does not offer extensive water views, its character and good breakfast were highlighted positively.

For large family groups, travelers have successfully found large houses on Airbnb. These properties can accommodate big groups and often come with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, meeting the needs of travelers who prefer a more home-like setting during their vacation.

Travelers often suggest choosing accommodation based on transportation plans. Those renting cars have more flexibility in choosing locations outside major towns, enhancing their experience of the island’s natural beauty.

According to forum posts, a recommended itinerary for visiting São Miguel involves splitting your stay between different parts of the island to experience its diverse landscapes and activities. Travelers have suggested starting in Ponta Delgada, then moving to locations such as Capelas, Furnas, and Lomba da Pedreira near Nordeste, and finally returning to Ponta Delgada.

For many users, the focus of their visits has been on enjoying the natural beauty through walking and hiking. Destinations such as Sete Cidades, Caldeira Velha, and Lagoa do Fogo are highly recommended. Furnas is particularly favored for its thermal pools and lush gardens, making it a great base for exploring the eastern part of the island.

Some travelers said renting a car for part of the trip greatly enhances the experience, allowing more freedom to explore remote areas not easily accessible by public transport. However, for those comfortable with driving, renting a car for the entire stay was deemed most convenient, especially given the island's limited public transportation options.

According to forum posts, car rental availability in the Azores can be limited, especially on smaller islands like Flores and during peak seasons. Travelers have recommended booking rental cars well in advance to ensure availability. Some users have noted difficulties in finding cars during busy months.

Travelers have called out specific rental companies such as Angrauto in Terceira for good service and reasonable prices. Other recommended companies include Azores Getaways and Autalantis, with positive experiences reported regarding vehicle conditions and customer service.

For many users, rental companies in the Azores offer flexible pickup and dropoff options, including deliveries to ports or airports. This convenience is particularly highlighted in islands with small populations where travel logistics might be more challenging.

Posts indicate that rental prices can vary significantly. During high-demand periods, prices can be quite high, with some travelers citing rates around 80 euros per day. However, more reasonable rates have been found through earlier bookings and using local rental services.

According to forum posts, SATA flights, particularly between islands in the Azores, are generally reliable but can be subject to delays and cancellations due to weather conditions. Travelers have noted that while inter-island flights are typically less problematic, transatlantic flights may experience more significant issues such as overbooking and delayed luggage.

Some travelers said that customer service could be unresponsive, and dealing with issues like flight changes and refunds can be challenging. It's recommended to book directly through SATA's official website rather than third-party agents to potentially ease the handling of any travel disruptions.

For many users, the condition of SATA's fleet has been a concern, with reports of older planes and maintenance issues in the past. However, recent updates suggest that the fleet has been modernized, with newer planes reportedly improving the overall travel experience.

Travelers have called out the benefit of planning for potential delays by scheduling flights with ample connection times. Packing essentials in carry-on luggage and preparing for flexible travel plans are advised to mitigate any disruptions.