Santa Maria

Introduction

Santa Maria is an island located in the eastern group of the Azores archipelago (south of the island of São Miguel) and the southernmost island in the Azores. The island is primarily known for its white sand beaches, distinct chimneys, and dry warm weather.

Geography

It is located in the southeast corner of the Azores archipelago, 100 kilometres south of São Miguel, and 600 kilometres from the island of Flores (the western most island in the archipelago). Generally, the island coast is ringed by steep cliffs, finding their prominence in the area of Rocha Alta (340 m). In addition, several protected bays along the coast shelter white sand beaches or are guarded by many rocky islets. These include the villages of São Lourenço (and its islet), Praia Formosa (and its long sandy beaches) or the craggy islet of Lagoínhas in the north coast. Forestry, covering about 19 hectares, is confined to high-density Cryptomeria trees planted along the slopes of Pico Alto.

Weather

Due to its low profile, the island is unique in the archipelago, being less influenced by humidity and having a more Mediterranean climate. In the summer it is generally dry and warm and in the winter it is milder with less precipitation. Median temperatures oscillate between 14 °C and 22 °C. The island received a direct hit from Hurricane Gordon in the early hours of August 20, 2012, with winds of 120 km/h gusting to 170 km/.

Getting There

By Plane

SATA Air Açores flies to/from Ponta Delgada and Lisbon.

By Boat

An inter-island ferry, owned by Azorean maritime transport operator Anlanticoline, services Santa Maria weekly during the summer.

Sleep

Pensão Francisca

External Links