A small coastal town on Pico Island with a historic 15th-century whaling port, black basalt architecture, and vineyards growing among volcanic rocks near Mount Pico.
Lajes do Pico sits on the southern coast of Pico Island in the Azores. In the town center, you'll find the 16th-century Igreja da Conceição with its alabaster statue, and three restored 19th-century boat houses that now form the Museu dos Baleeiros. From the harbor, you can join whale watching expeditions to spot sperm whales and dolphins, while in August, the streets come alive with the Baleeiro Festival's boat races and cultural events.
The Whaler's Museum
Inside three 19th-century boat houses by the port, you'll discover the story of Azorean whaling at the Museu dos Baleeiros. Each room contains carefully preserved equipment: harpoons, processing tools, and scrimshaw art. Photographs and personal accounts tell the stories of local families who worked in the industry. You can examine a fully restored whaling boat and see how crews lived during their hunting expeditions.
Whale Watching Tours
From April to October, boats depart the harbor for 3-4 hour whale watching trips. Marine biologists help you spot and identify sperm whales, fin whales, and several dolphin species. They use hydrophones to locate cetaceans by their sounds underwater. The boats maintain a respectful distance while allowing clear views of these marine mammals in their natural environment.
Historic Town Center
Walk through narrow cobblestone streets from the former São Francisco Convent, now the town hall, to the waterfront. The Igreja da Conceição contains a rare 16th-century alabaster statue, while the São Pedro hermitage, built in 1460, stands as one of the oldest buildings on the island. Follow the interior street that connects the city council building to Largo de São Pedro Square to see local stone architecture and small gardens.
The Baleeiro Festival
The last week of August brings the Baleeiro Festival to Lajes do Pico's streets. Since 1883, when whale hunters made a vow to the Lourdes Virgin, this celebration has grown into a major cultural event. Watch teams compete in restored whaling boats using specific rowing techniques from the whaling era. The festival includes local music performances, food stalls selling Azorean specialties, and demonstrations of maritime skills.
Civil Parishes and Geography
The municipality covers 155.31 square kilometers across six civil parishes: Calheta de Nesquim, Lajes do Pico, Piedade, Ribeiras, Ribeirinha, and São João. The terrain rises dramatically from sea level to 2,351 meters, creating multiple climate zones where you'll find different vegetation and farming practices at various altitudes.
