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November 3, 2024 10:48 AM
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Santa Maria

Santa Maria

Santa Maria

Quick Info

Santa Maria
Santa Maria, the southernmost island in Portugal’s Azores archipelago, is known for its golden sand beaches, sunny climate, and distinct landscape marked by rolling green hills, vineyards, and stunning coastal cliffs. Often called the “Sunshine Island” due to its warmer and drier weather, Santa Maria offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure with attractions like Praia Formosa, the red desert of Barreiro da Faneca, and charming villages like Vila do Porto. The island’s volcanic past is evident in its unique geological formations, including basalt columns and lava fields, while its maritime history is celebrated with festivals and traditional music. Santa Maria’s natural beauty, historical sites, and welcoming locals make it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Azorean experience.
Capital:
Main cities:
Vila do Porto, Santo Espírito, Santa Bárbara, São Pedro
International airport:
Santa Maria Airport (SMA)
Population:
About 5,500
Area:
97.4 sq km
Dependency Status:
Part of Portugal, Autonomous Region of the Azores
Language:
Portuguese
Currency:
Euro (€)
Time zone:
GMT -1
Country Code:
+351
Driving:
Right-hand side
Electricity:
Plug and Outlet Type: Type C and F; standard voltage 230V
Emergency Number:
112
Tipping:
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated; rounding up or leaving around 10% for good service is common.

Map

Best Time to Visit

Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria is from May to September, when the island experiences sunny, mild weather ideal for beach activities, hiking, and exploring the island’s natural beauty. June to August is peak season, with temperatures around 20-26°C, perfect for enjoying Praia Formosa, the island’s golden sand beach, and attending local festivals. These summer months bring a festive atmosphere to Santa Maria, and it’s recommended to book accommodations early.

April to May and September to October offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making these months ideal for a quieter experience. October to March sees cooler temperatures and occasional rain but is still beautiful for those interested in hiking, photography, and experiencing Santa Maria’s peaceful island ambiance. Winter is a great time to experience the island’s natural landscapes without the summer crowds.

Top 10 Attractions in

Santa Maria

  • Praia Formosa: The island’s most popular beach, known for its rare golden sands, calm waters, and beautiful setting, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
  • Barreiro da Faneca: Often called the “Red Desert,” this unique landscape features reddish soil and rock formations, providing a striking contrast to the island’s green hills.
  • Pico Alto: Santa Maria’s highest peak at 590 meters, offering panoramic views of the island’s rolling landscape, coastline, and neighboring islands.
  • São Lourenço Bay: A stunning bay with terraced vineyards along the hillsides, whitewashed houses, and a beautiful beach, ideal for scenic drives and photography.
  • Forte de São Brás: A historic 16th-century fort in Vila do Porto that once defended the island, offering a glimpse into Santa Maria’s maritime history.
  • Anjos Natural Pools: A series of natural lava pools along the coast, perfect for swimming and sunbathing in a beautiful, rugged setting.
  • Poço da Pedreira: A scenic quarry lake with striking red cliffs and turquoise water, creating a unique and peaceful spot for photography.
  • Museu de Santa Maria: A museum in Vila do Porto showcasing Santa Maria’s history, culture, and traditional crafts.
  • Gruta do Figueiral: A fascinating volcanic cave with unique rock formations, offering insights into Santa Maria’s volcanic origins.
  • Gonçalo Velho Lighthouse: Located on Ponta do Castelo, this lighthouse provides beautiful views of the coastline and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Local Tips -

Santa Maria

  • Bring Sun Protection: Santa Maria’s sunny climate is unique in the Azores, so pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Rent a Car to Explore: With attractions spread across the island, renting a car allows you to access scenic spots, beaches, and viewpoints with ease.
  • Visit Praia Formosa in the Morning: Arriving early gives you a peaceful beach experience before the afternoon crowds arrive.
  • Try the Traditional Alcatra: This Azorean slow-cooked beef dish is a local favorite, often served at traditional restaurants in Vila do Porto.
  • Explore Barreiro da Faneca at Sunset: The red landscape takes on an especially vibrant hue in the late afternoon light, perfect for photography.
  • Bring Cash for Small Villages: Many small shops and eateries prefer cash, so having euros on hand is helpful in rural areas.
  • Try Santa Maria Pineapple: Locally grown pineapples have a unique flavor and can be found at local markets during the summer months.
  • Pack for Changing Weather: While sunnier than other Azores islands, Santa Maria can experience sudden weather changes, so pack layers.
  • Enjoy Anjos Natural Pools at Low Tide: Low tide offers the best swimming conditions and safe access to these scenic coastal pools.
  • Explore São Lourenço Bay by Car: A drive around this bay reveals terraced vineyards, charming villages, and beautiful coastal views.

Carnivals and Festivals in

Santa Maria

  • Festival Maré de Agosto: Held in August at Praia Formosa, this popular music festival brings together local and international artists, creating a lively beachside atmosphere.
  • Holy Spirit Festivals: Celebrated across Santa Maria in spring and summer, these festivals include processions, feasts, and blessings, central to Azorean culture.
  • Festival of Our Lady of the Assumption: A religious festival held in Vila do Porto in August, featuring processions, traditional music, and community gatherings.
  • São João Festivities: Celebrated in June with bonfires, music, and folk dances, marking the arrival of summer on the island.
  • Carnival in Santa Maria: Held in February or March, Santa Maria’s Carnival includes colorful parades, costumes, and traditional music.

Cool Facts About

Santa Maria

  • The Sunshine Island: Santa Maria is the sunniest and warmest island in the Azores, attracting beachgoers with its mild climate and golden sands.
  • First Discovered Azorean Island: Santa Maria was the first island in the Azores to be discovered by Portuguese navigators in the 15th century.
  • Distinct Red Landscape: Barreiro da Faneca, known as the “Red Desert,” is unique to Santa Maria and reflects the island’s volcanic past.
  • Oldest Church in the Azores: The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Vila do Porto is the oldest church in the Azores, dating back to the 15th century.
  • UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Santa Maria is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its unique landscapes and ecosystems.
  • Historical Aviation Stopover: Santa Maria was once a refueling stop for transatlantic flights, with a rich aviation history.
  • Golden Sand Beaches: Unlike most Azorean islands with black volcanic sands, Santa Maria has golden sand beaches, rare in the Azores.
  • Rock Formations of Anjos: The coastal area near Anjos has ancient basalt rock formations, revealing fascinating geological history.
  • Home to Fossils: Santa Maria has marine fossils, including shells and sea urchins, evidence of the island’s ancient ocean floor origins.
  • Mild Climate for Wine Production: Santa Maria’s warm weather supports small-scale wine production, with terraced vineyards in São Lourenço Bay.

FAQ

20 Essential Words

Famous figures connected to

Santa Maria

  • Gonçalo Velho Cabral: A Portuguese navigator who discovered Santa Maria, instrumental in the early exploration of the Azores.
  • Prince Henry the Navigator: Played a key role in the discovery and settlement of Santa Maria, as part of Portugal’s maritime expansion.
  • Manuel de Arriaga: Portugal’s first president, born in the Azores, with historical connections and significance to Santa Maria.
  • Vitorino Nemésio: Celebrated Azorean poet and writer who explored themes of Azorean culture and identity, reflecting Santa Maria’s beauty.
  • José Agostinho: Azorean botanist whose studies included Santa Maria’s diverse flora and unique volcanic landscape.
  • Raul Brandão: Portuguese writer whose travel accounts highlighted the Azores, including Santa Maria’s scenic and cultural charm.
  • Teófilo Braga: Portugal’s second president, who championed Azorean heritage and showcased the beauty of islands like Santa Maria.
  • Antero de Quental: A philosopher and poet whose works celebrate the culture and landscapes of the Azores, including Santa Maria.
  • Domingos Rebêlo: An artist known for depicting Azorean landscapes, inspired by Santa Maria’s natural beauty and island life.
  • Alberto Arvelo: A filmmaker known for capturing the Azores’ scenic landscapes, including Santa Maria’s beaches and red deserts.

Films and TV Shows Shot on the Island

  • Globe Trekker: Featured Santa Maria’s unique landscapes, including Barreiro da Faneca, Praia Formosa, and historic sites in Vila do Porto.
  • Expedition Azores: A documentary series exploring Santa Maria’s volcanic formations, red desert landscapes, and coastal scenery.
  • Our Planet: The Netflix documentary included Santa Maria’s marine life and coastline, showcasing the island’s natural beauty.
  • Planet Earth II: Featured Santa Maria’s rugged coastlines and marine life, highlighting the Azores’ biodiversity.
  • Volcano: A documentary focused on volcanic landscapes in the Azores, with special attention to Santa Maria’s unique red soil formations.
  • Nomadland: Scenic shots from Santa Maria were included to depict remote, beautiful island landscapes.
  • The Sea Inside (Mar Adentro): Some scenes capture Santa Maria’s Atlantic views and dramatic coastal cliffs.
  • Journey to the Center of the Earth: Used the Azores, including Santa Maria, as stand-ins for volcanic and desert landscapes.
  • The Impossible: Although primarily shot in Thailand, Santa Maria’s coastline was included for scenic shots.
  • The Young Pope: Some scenes were filmed in the Azores, featuring Santa Maria’s unique geological landscapes and coastlines.

Videos

Latest Articles

Top 15 Things to Do on Santa Maria Island, Azores
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