Santa Maria Airport: where to stay, areas and recommended hotels

Santa Maria airport is about 5 km west-northwest of Vila do Porto, the island's main centre: you get there in a few minutes by taxi, with no dedicated public shuttle. Vila do Porto remains the most convenient base, with the port and the historic centre within walking distance of the vila's hotels; the finest beaches on the south coast, such as Praia Formosa, are still a few minutes away by car.

Vila do Porto

City centre · The airport is about 5 km west-northwest of Vila do Porto; you get there by taxi in a few minutes, with no dedicated public shuttle.

Best for: Those who want the port and historic centre of Vila do Porto just steps away, with the airport still only a few minutes off.

Pros

Port, marina and historic centre within walking distance of the vila's hotels
Beaches and natural pools on the south coast a few minutes away by car

Cons

Few restaurants open out of season: evening life is limited
Without a rental car, the finest beaches such as Praia Formosa remain out of walking reach

Recommended hotels in this area

Hotel Santa Maria: Opened in 2003 about 2.35 km from the centre and 5 minutes from the airport; 50 rooms, a pool and two tennis courts, among the most extensive facilities on the island.
Azores Youth Hostels - Santa Maria: In the restored building of an eighteenth-century palazzo on Rua Frei Gonçalo Velho, in the historic heart of Vila do Porto and a few steps from the port; outdoor pool and buffet breakfast included.

See more hotels in this area →