Find hotels in Santa Maria Island from £23

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria Island

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Maria Island boasts beautiful sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
• Outdoor Adventures: The island offers picturesque hiking trails and opportunities for exciting outdoor activities.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore quaint villages and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
• Island-Hopping Opportunities: Use Santa Maria as a base to discover other stunning islands in the Azores archipelago.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming hotels and agritourism properties catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels near Santa Maria Island

Santa Maria Island offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from charming hotels to inviting agritourism properties. Ideal for families, pet owners, or couples seeking a romantic getaway, you’ll discover options that cater to all preferences. With various holiday rentals and resorts available, planning your perfect stay in this stunning Azorean destination is both simple and enjoyable.

• Hotel Colombo: Nestled 1.2km from Santa Maria Island, Hotel Colombo is a charming 4-star property ideal for families and adventure seekers. With a theme centred around nature and exploration, this hotel offers a plethora of onsite and nearby recreational activities, including bicycle rentals for those eager to discover the scenic landscapes. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's amenities, such as a shared playground and arcade game room, ensuring that younger guests are entertained. The hotel creates an inviting atmosphere for those looking to blend relaxation with adventure.
• Azores Youth Hostels - Santa Maria: Situated 1.9km from Santa Maria Island, Azores Youth Hostels - Santa Maria is a vibrant and budget-friendly option for backpackers and young travellers. This hostel embraces a social atmosphere, offering complimentary breakfast daily and a casual snack bar for light bites. Guests can unwind in the bar and lounge area after a day of exploring the nearby historical district, which is rich in local culture and heritage. With its welcoming vibe, this hostel is perfect for those looking to connect with fellow travellers while enjoying the beautiful Azorean landscape.
• Praia De Lobos: Located 1.9km from Santa Maria Island, Praia De Lobos offers a serene retreat with a focus on convenience and relaxation. This hotel provides complimentary self-parking for guests, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with their own vehicles. The simple yet comfortable accommodations ensure a restful stay, while its proximity to local attractions allows for easy exploration of the stunning island. The friendly atmosphere makes Praia De Lobos a delightful option for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway without compromising on accessibility.

Where to stay near Santa Maria Island

Santa Maria Island is a gem in the Azores, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Explore the charming town of Vila do Porto, bask on the golden sands of Praia Formosa, and relish breathtaking sea views that surround you. The island's friendly atmosphere invites you to embark on excursions that showcase its natural beauty and vibrant culture. With its idyllic scenery and warm locals, your vacation on Santa Maria will surely be unforgettable.

• Vila do Porto: As the largest city on Santa Maria Island, Vila do Porto is located a mere 1.2km away and offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor activities. This picturesque city is especially vibrant during the summer months, from July to September, when visitors flock for its stunning beaches and rich historical sites. Notable attractions include the historic gate arch and various monuments that showcase the island's heritage. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails in and around Vila do Porto, providing opportunities to explore the island's natural beauty while soaking in breathtaking coastal views.
• Almagreira: Just 497m from Santa Maria Island, Almagreira is a charming parish renowned for its beautiful beach, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing. Like its neighbouring regions, Almagreira experiences a seasonal influx of tourists, peaking during the summer months. The serene atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery make it an ideal location for those seeking a quieter beach experience, away from the busier tourist destinations.
• Santo Espírito: Located 2.5km from Santa Maria Island, Santo Espírito is another lovely parish attracting visitors primarily during the summer season. Known for its beautiful beach, this area provides a tranquil escape for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. The unspoiled landscapes and calm waters make it a fantastic spot for swimming and relaxation, offering a more laid-back vibe compared to the bustling city life nearby.

Things to do near Santa Maria Island

Santa Maria Island offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for romantic getaways. Visitors can engage in educational activities, explore picturesque hiking trails, and embark on island-hopping holidays to discover the beauty of the Azores. Whether you're seeking travel escapades or simply wish to unwind amidst nature, Santa Maria promises an unforgettable experience.

Shopping

For local gifts, visit the charming shops in Vila do Porto, where you can find handmade crafts and traditional Azorean products. If you're up for a drive, the larger shopping centre at Ponta Delgada offers a wider variety of shops and boutiques to explore.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Caldeira Velha Spa, where you can indulge in natural thermal waters amidst lush scenery. Enjoy yoga sessions on tranquil beaches and explore the island's stunning hiking trails, such as the scenic route to Praia Formosa, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking views.

Adventure

Barreiro da Faneca is an outdoor gem situated 1.2km from Santa Maria Island. This stunning location offers captivating landscapes, perfect for hiking and exploring. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty as you discover unique rock formations and vibrant flora.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife at O Pescador on the harbour, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local wines. For a lively atmosphere, visit Bar do Adro, known for its cocktails and friendly vibe, perfect for mingling with locals and other travellers alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria Island

To save money during your visit to Santa Maria Island, consider travelling in the cheaper months of March to April or October. Book your accommodation 1-3 months in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Wednesday stay to maximise savings. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and look for last-minute deals, which can offer significant discounts. Additionally, consider booking a holiday package that combines flights, hotels, and activities for further savings. Take advantage of the local public transport system, which is both affordable and efficient, to explore the island without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Maria Island are March to April and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Santa Maria Island is usually 1-3 months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Maria Island is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Maria Island is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your selections by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Maria Island hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Santa Maria Island

Santa Maria Island is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, with stunning beaches, picturesque marinas, and scenic mountains to explore. Visitors can indulge in various activities, including beach outings and adventurous outdoor experiences. The island offers a delightful escape for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Azores, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking for relaxation and adventure alike.

• Sao Lourenco Beach: Located 1.9km from Santa Maria Island, Sao Lourenco Beach offers a serene escape with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the tranquil beach vibes.
• Pico Alto: Just 497m away, Pico Alto is the highest point on the island, providing breathtaking panoramic views. This mountain is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic hiking trails and a sense of adventure amidst the lush landscape.
• Raposo Bay Waterfall: Situated 1.2km from Santa Maria, the Raposo Bay Waterfall is a picturesque natural feature. The cascading waters create a peaceful atmosphere, making it a lovely spot for relaxation and photography.

Best time to go to Santa Maria Island

The best time to visit Santa Maria Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Santa Maria Island falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Santa Maria Island falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	60.3°F (15.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.6°F (23.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria Island

To visit Santa Maria Island in the Azores, you can fly into Santa Maria Airport (SMA-Vila Do Porto), located approximately 1.9km from the island's heart. Nearby, you'll find excellent accommodation options like the 4-star Hotel Colombo and the budget-friendly Azores Youth Hostels - Santa Maria, both situated around 1.2km from the airport. The 3-star Hotel Santa Maria is conveniently located just 311m away. Each of these hotels offers airport transportation services, typically for a fee, ensuring easy access to and from your accommodation.