Santa Maria, Portuguese for Saint Mary, 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.Due to its low profile, the island is distinctly 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.



Tourists generally favour the white sand beaches and rock pools in the communities of Anjos (Vila do Porto), Praia Formosa (Almagreira), Maia (Santo Espírito) and São Lourenço (Santa Bárbara). Praia Formosa, in particular, is known on the island for its white sand beach that stretches across the bay. In the remaining locals original natural rock pools have been replaced by concrete pools with seawater access.



These are the main points of interest:



• Maia and S.Lourenco Bay - Two of the most beautiful bays in the archipelago, with its cliff side vineyards. Both have bathing facilities;
• Anjos - The village is historically very significant as the first landfall of Christopher Columbus on his return from Americas;
• Santo Espirito - A pretty village surrounded by pastures, with a beautiful parish church;
• Praia Formosa - Yellow sandy beach, one of the best in Azores;
• Some viewpoints - "Fontinhas", "Lagoinhas", "Espigao" and "Picos" and of course "Pico Alto" with 1926 feet (587 m).