Explore Santa Maria Island – The Hidden Treasure of the Azores

Located in the southeasternmost part of the Azores archipelago, Santa Maria Island stands out for its stunning landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and welcoming climate. This is where you’ll find Brava Rent-a-Car, your trusted partner to explore the island at your own pace and with total freedom.

🌞 The Sunshine Island

Santa Maria is affectionately nicknamed the “Sunshine Island” for having the warmest and driest climate in the Azores. This unique feature offers more sunny days—perfect for beachgoers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

🗺 Strategic Location

With regular flights from São Miguel and Lisbon, reaching the island is quick and easy. The Santa Maria Airport is just a few minutes from the town of Vila do Porto and our rental base. The island is about 18 km long and 10 km wide, making it easy to explore in just a few days—perfect with a rental car.

🏖 Paradise Beaches

• Praia Formosa – Known for its light sand, calm waters, and the Maré de Agosto festival, which draws international artists.
• São Lourenço – An amphitheater-shaped bay with terraced vineyards, great for snorkeling and photography.
• Baía dos Anjos – Ideal for sunset views and enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants.

🌋 Unique Nature

• Barreiro da Faneca – The “Red Desert” of the Azores, with clay soils and a lunar-like landscape.
• Poço da Pedreira – A former quarry turned lagoon with impressive vertical rock formations.
• Pico Alto – The island’s highest point at 587 meters, offering stunning panoramic views.
• Ribeira de Maloás – A waterfall with basalt columns similar to the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland.
• Pedreira do Campo Natural Monument – A geological site of interest featuring fossils and unique volcanic formations.
• Fontinhas Forest Reserve – A green area with leisure zones, perfect for picnics and walks.

🚶 Trails and Hikes

For nature lovers, Santa Maria offers a variety of well-marked hiking trails:

• Pico Alto to Praia Trail – A walk through forests and pastures down to the sea.
• Santo Espírito to Maia Trail – Includes historical landmarks, windmills, and viewpoints.
• South Coast Trail – Breathtaking views over the Atlantic and access to hidden coves.
• Santa Maria Grand Route (GR1 SMA) – An 80 km circular route around the island, ideal for multi-day hikes.

🏛 Cultural Heritage

• Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels – The oldest church in the Azores, tied to the arrival of the first settlers.
• Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Center – A great introduction to local wildlife, plants, and geology.
• Typical Houses – Traditional architecture in stone and lime, beautifully contrasting with the lush green landscape.

🍽 Local Cuisine

Santa Maria is also an island of flavors. Local specialties include:

• Liver Sauce – A signature dish of the island.
• Turnip Soup – A traditional soup served during local festivals.
• Cracas – A rare and prized shellfish, steamed and served fresh.
• Convent Sweets – Such as “Cavacas” and “Biscoitos de Orelha.”

🚗 The Best Way to Explore

With quiet roads and charming views around every corner, the best way to explore Santa Maria is by car. Brava Rent-a-Car offers modern, safe vehicles tailored to each visitor’s needs, with direct delivery to the airport or accommodation.

🎉 Festivals and Events

• Maré de Agosto – An international seaside music festival, held from August 21 to 23, 2025.
• Santa Maria Blues – The biggest Blues festival in Portugal, scheduled for July 17 to 19, 2025.
• Holy Spirit Festivals – Traditional religious celebrations featuring crowns, flags, and typical soups.
• Santa Maria Rally – A motorsport event that spans the entire island, attracting motorsport enthusiasts.

📹 Watch Santa Maria on Video

📌 Book Now

Ready to discover all the charms of this magical island? Book your vehicle now and enjoy an unforgettable experience with Brava Rent-a-Car.

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