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Praia da Vitoria was the seal of the captaincy of Terceira in the early settlement period (1456 to 1474) and made a town in 1640, Praia (as it was then simply called) took part in the economic prosperity of the island in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Near the town, and with the participation of its inhabitants, the battle of Salga was fought in 1581. The pretender to the throne, Dom Antonio, Prior do Crato, was acclaimed king when he landed at Praia in 1582. The struggles between liberals and absolutists brought Praia back to the pages of history once again. In 1829 the town, supporting the liberal cause, heroically and successfully resisted an attack and attempted landing by an absolutist fleet of 21 ships with highly superior forces. It was this fact that led to the town's being granted the title of Praia da Vitoria in 1837.

Its economic importance and growth, achieved in spite of the earthquake of 1841 which partially destroyed it, justified its being raised to the status of a city in 1981. A large new oceanic port, recently built, decisively contribute to its progress.

Places to visit: Parish Church; Church of Senhor Santo Cristo; Fort Santa Catarina; Town Hall; Historic centre. The long, sheltered sands of Praia da Vitoria are one of the most welcoming beaches in the Azorer A seaport was built with a 1,400 metre long jetty.

An excellent vista of the coast and town can be had from the belvedere called Miradouro Riviera, on the cape known as Ponta do Cabo.