Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, but all content is based off our own opinions and experiences. We may receive a commission from purchases made through the links enclosed at no additional cost to you!
Santa Maria is the southern and easternmost island of the Azores archipelago. Known as the sunny island of the archipelago, it is warmer, drier, and less humid than the other eight islands. This means it is a great location to visit some of the Azores’ only white-sand beaches! With its wonderful landscapes, Santa Maria has plenty to offer visitors on the oldest island of the Azores. Santa Maria is on our list to visit next year, but until then, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best things to do in Santa Maria, Azores
Relax on the beautiful Praia Formosa (and other beaches!)
A great place to start any visit to Santa Maria is to start at the places it’s famous for; beaches! Praia Formosa is one of the island’s most beloved and beautiful beaches. This is the perfect place to engage in your favorite beach activities. You can sunbathe, take a dip in the clear blue waters, or even do some watersports like snorkeling and paddleboarding. I would also recommend Praia da Maia, a must-visit secluded black sand beach on the island’s northern coast.
Hike Pico Alto
Pico Alto, as its name suggests, is the highest point on the island. There is no better place to get an amazing panoramic view of the island and get your lay of the land. Not to mention the hike up is quite pretty as well. On a clear day, you can even see the Sao Miguel from the top!
Discover Anjos Village
This small village might seem just like any other village to visitors, but it has an interesting history. It’s the point where Christopher Columbus stopped to pray at the Ermida Nossa Senhora dos Anjos on his way back from discovering the Americas in 1492! You can visit this church as it is still standing as one of the oldest religious buildings in the entirety of the Azores. A large statue of the famed explorer stands near the church and might even be worth a quick picture.
Visit the island’s desert
One of the most interesting features of Santa Maria is the “Red Desert of the Azores”, otherwise known as Barreiro da Faneca. Lava flow, volcanic ash, and the subtropical climate formed the Red Desert over 4 million years. While it isn’t a desert as you might think, this area of red clay is definitely an interesting stop on your trip around the island. You’ll have a chance to see something that might not seem to belong on a tropical island.
See the tallest waterfall in the Azores
Cascata do Aveiro is the tallest waterfall in the Azores. Located in Maia, you can access this hidden gem of a waterfall and its beautiful surroundings on a leisurely hike.
São Lourenço Bay and Beach
The Baia de São Lourenço is a must-visit on the island. Its white sand beach provides a perfect place for a stroll. Be sure to take a moment to check out the mountainside covered in terraced vineyards that a few of the islands are famous for. Just like Praia Formosa and the other beaches, you’ll have the option to enjoy a swim and other beach activities, but with an unparalleled view. You can get an amazing view of the bay in its entirety from the Mirodouro de São Lourenço before driving down to the beach.
Take some time to enjoy Vila do Porto
Vila do Porto is the main and only city on the island. You are likely to start your adventure in Santa Maria here, so be sure to take the time to explore what the city has to offer. Take a walk down the main avenue to admire all the architecture reminiscent of the first settlers. You can check out another one of the oldest churches in the Azores, Nossa Senhora da Assunção, as well. The road ends with a nice view over the bay and a visit to the São Brás Fort.
Discover Santa Maria’s underground wonders
Like many of the other islands of the Azores, Santa Maria has some caves yearning to be explored. This includes several natural caves such as the Furna Velha and the Furna de Santana. Another popular cave to explore is the man-made Gruta do Figueiral. You can also visit a few unique underwater caves, like the Gruta Azul, on a diving tour.
Indulge in some Santa Maria wine
Of the nine Azores islands, four are famous for their wine. While not UNESCO World Heritage designated like Pico, Santa Maria boasts many vineyards in the same style as Pico and the other islands. The wine produced in Santa Maria is considered vinho de cheiro, meaning it is only suitable for domestic consumption. So, you will not be taking any home with you! However, don’t miss a chance to try some when eating Azorean dishes at restaurants around the island.
While this is a list of the 9 best things to do in Santa Maria, Azores, it just scratches the surface of everything to explore on the island. Santa Maria is a gem waiting to be discovered. We can’t wait to see it for ourselves and share more of our discoveries with you!