Santa Maria – the ‘Sun Island’ – is the most south easterly in the Azores, with underwater diving highlights that include exploration of caves, tunnels and sea mounts.
However, it’s the nature reserve at Formigas and the Dollabarat Bank that divers hope to get to experience for their pelagic encounters. During the summer months (Jun-Oct) the island’s famous visitors are devil rays at Baixa do Ambrósio. Loggerhead turtles, dolphin, schools of tuna and other pelagic fish are also present at this time. Whale sharks and manta rays are occasional visitors.
The central areas are heavily wooded and offer spectacular views of high cliffs and hillsides plunging into the ocean. Visit the beautiful beach of Praia Formosa and explore the island on a half day tour with its unique sites and sounds; an island where Christopher Columbus once took refuge. The 15th century town of Vila do Porto features long streets leading to the cliff-top fort of Sao Bras with the port below.
It's possible to fly here from Lisbon and other islands in the Azores and is easily reached by ferry from São Miguel (seasonal).
Experience the best liveaboard diving in the Azores, with departures each Saturday from July through to October each year. Sail to Santa Maria and São Miguel, where the highlight is diving with mobula rays. Find Out More about Azores Liveaboard
Dive from the beautiful island of Santa Maria and expect large pelagic marine encounters at seamounts rising from the deep, as well as seasonal visitors such as devil rays at Baixa do Ambrósio. Find Out More about Dive Santa Maria
Explore the waters around Santa Maria from this comfortable and well-located hotel, located in the town of Vila do Porto. With an excellent on-site dive centre, it is the ideal base for scuba divers. Find Out More about Hotel Colombo
This small and quiet property on the island of Santa Maria makes a great base to enjoy the diving on the ‘Sun island’. Pelagic species are frequent and you can expect to see several species of shark. Find Out More about Hotel Santa Maria
Explore the fascinating waters of the Azores with the Water & Wind, a premier diving liveaboard offering captivating underwater adventures amidst the archipelago’s stunning landscapes and thriving marine life. Find Out More about Water & Wind
