The island of Santa Maria, also known as the sun island and yellow island is the only island in the Azores that has white sand beaches, due to its geological formation.
Unlike the other islands, this one has a drier and sunnier climate, which gives it a distinctly Mediterranean character, providing hotter and drier summers. This way, Santa Maria is a very sought after destination to spend vacations, having as a great attraction its beautiful beaches and bathing areas, such as Praia Formosa, which has been the stage of the MERÉ DE AGOSTO Festival for more than 25 years; and Praia de São Lourenço, situated in the northeast of the island. The natural swimming pools of Baía dos Anjos, is another very popular place in Santa Maria island to bathe in the sea.
Last modified: 18 de August, 2021
