Termas do Carapacho, Portugal

Graciosa’s coastal thermal spa, built for quiet routines

Termas do Carapacho is Graciosa’s best-known thermal stop, set right by the sea in the Carapacho area. It’s more “thermal establishment” than “wild spring,” with services that include pool bathing and treatment-style options.

Water basics

The official Azores tourism description states the thermal water used in services has a temperature between 35°C and 40°C and is highly mineralized, with magnesium, chloride, and sodium noted as key characteristics. A Regional Government news release about reopening also describes the waters reaching an approximate temperature of 38°C.

What the visit is good for

This is the place to slow down on Graciosa. It’s not a big resort scene. Think coastal air, warm water, and a straightforward soak that works well after a windy walk or a day of driving viewpoints.

Where it is
Termas do Carapacho is on Graciosa island in the Carapacho area (freguesia da Luz). The official Azores tourism listing gives the address as Rua Dr. Manuel de Menezes, 9880-120 Carapacho.

Getting there
On Graciosa, you’ll typically reach Carapacho by car from Santa Cruz da Graciosa. Roads are paved and distances are short by island standards. Once on site, access is not a hike, it’s a straightforward arrival at a developed facility near the coast.

Hours and planning
Opening hours can shift seasonally and with operations. The official Azores tourism listing provides phone contact. If you’re traveling on a tight schedule, call ahead the same day to confirm entry conditions and what is operating (pool vs treatments).

What to bring
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops. Plan for rinsing off and for wind after you leave, this is a coastal site. If you’re doing treatments, arrive early so you’re not rushing, the calm pace is part of the point.

Termas do Carapacho suits travelers who prefer a managed soak over rocky coastal entries. It’s a good match for Graciosa visitors who want one reliable wellness stop, even if the weather isn’t beach-friendly.

Families
It can work for families because it’s a developed site with defined spaces, but it’s better for calm, supervised kids than for high-energy play. Keep expectations clear: this is soaking and quiet time, not a waterpark.

Couples and solo travelers
Couples often like it as a low-key afternoon reset, especially if you pair it with a scenic drive. Solo travelers fit in easily because the setting is structured and you’re not managing wilderness logistics alone.

Accessibility
I’m not claiming wheelchair accessibility here because the official tourism listing does not spell out step-free routes or pool entry design. If you need step-free access, confirm details directly with the facility using the official phone contact before you plan your day around it.

Expectations vs reality
It’s a thermal establishment, not a giant complex. If you go for a simple soak and a rinse, it tends to land well.

Heat and mineral water
The official tourism description states water temperatures between 35°C and 40°C. Treat it like any hot soak: ease in, take breaks, and keep your first session short if you’re not used to warm water.

Coastal conditions
You’re right by the sea. Wind can chill you fast after you get out, even on a sunny day. Bring a warm layer for the walk back to the car and dry off well to avoid feeling cold.

Hygiene and pool manners
Rinse before you enter, keep the space quiet, and avoid bringing lotions or oils that can film the water. Keep phones secured, wet floors are common around pool areas.

Etiquette
This is not a loud scene. Keep voices low, give people space at the pool edge, and avoid long photo sessions that block pathways. If you’re doing treatments, show up on time and don’t pressure staff to squeeze you in late.

Health caution without drama
If you have a condition that makes heat exposure risky for you, treat the soak cautiously or skip it. When in doubt, shorter sessions and cooler water choices (if available) are the safer approach.

How warm is the water at Termas do Carapacho?

The official Azores tourism description states the thermal water used in services is between 35°C and 40°C. A Regional Government news release also describes an approximate temperature of 38°C.

Where are Termas do Carapacho located?

They are on Graciosa island in the Carapacho area (freguesia da Luz). The official Azores tourism listing provides the address Rua Dr. Manuel de Menezes, 9880-120 Carapacho.

Do they offer more than a soak?

Yes. The official tourism description references services including immersion options and massage-style experiences (for example, Vichy shower with massage and hydromassage bathtub).

Do I need to book ahead?

Booking requirements can change. The official tourism listing provides a phone number, and calling ahead is the safest way to confirm what is operating and when.

Is Termas do Carapacho wheelchair accessible?

The official tourism listing does not clearly state step-free pool entry or ADA-style access details. If you need wheelchair-specific access, confirm directly with the facility before you go.