Lagoa do Capitão

Lagoa do Capitão is a small lake on Pico Island in the Azores, in the municipality of São Roque do Pico. It lies at roughly 826 m above sea level inland, within the Zona Central Protected Landscape. It is among the easiest lakes on Pico to reach and a favorite photo stop.

Where is Lagoa do Capitão?

The lake sits on the northern slopes of Pico, above the town of São Roque do Pico, at about 38.488° N, 28.319° W. From Madalena, the island's other main hub, it takes around 20 minutes to drive here, which makes it an easy addition to a loop around the island.

What does the lake look like?

The lagoon covers about 2.6 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 4.5 m, so it is a compact, shallow body of water among green hills. On a calm day its surface mirrors Pico mountain, the highest peak in Portugal, which is why the reflection shot is one of the most photographed views on the island.

What can you see from the shore?

The surroundings open up to a panorama of the village of São Roque, the northern slopes of the island, the Pico massif and the channel between Pico and neighboring São Jorge. In clear weather it is one of the best views of Pico's north side.

Why does the lake matter?

The lake serves as a strategic freshwater reserve and plays an important part in how the island's natural systems work. It is classified as a protected water body under the land-use and watershed plan for the lakes of Pico. Visitors should keep the shore clean and avoid polluting the water.

Can you hike here?

Yes. Lagoa do Capitão is part of the PR13 PIC trail described in the official Azores trail materials. It is an easy loop of about 9 km with around 100 m of elevation gain, suitable for casual walkers. Bring sturdy shoes, since the ground can be damp, and a windproof layer, because weather above 800 m changes quickly.

Frequently asked questions

How long should I plan for a visit? A stop at the lake for photos takes a short while. To walk the full PR13 PIC loop, set aside a few hours.

Is it hard to get there? No. The lake is easy to reach by car, about 20 minutes from Madalena.

When is the best time to go? Choose a windless day with the summit clear of cloud: Pico is then reflected in the water, and you can see the channel to São Jorge and the village of São Roque.

Is the lake deep? The maximum depth is 4.5 m, so it is a shallow lake and a protected water body rather than a swimming spot. Treat it as a viewpoint and a walking destination.

Is it the only lake on Pico? No. There are several lakes inland on the island, but Lagoa do Capitão stands out for its easy access and its views of the north coast.

Summary

Lagoa do Capitão suits anyone exploring Pico: a short drive, views of the mountain, the channel and São Jorge, and an easy trail around the lake. Fit it into your island loop and leave time for photos when the air is clear.