Outdoor & fun
Praia de Santa Maria
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Praia de Santa Maria is the main beach on Sal Island, a sweeping arc of soft golden sand lapped by gentle, turquoise waters. Its calm conditions make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beginner-friendly water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. The beach is lined with resorts, bars, and restaurants, so you can easily spend a full day here, moving from a morning swim to a beachfront lunch. The lively atmosphere, especially near the pier, gives it a resort-town feel while still offering plenty of space to spread out.
Don't miss
- Swim in the calm, clear waters that are protected by a reef
- Try windsurfing or kitesurfing with equipment rental on the beach
- Stroll the full length of the beach from the pier to the salt ponds
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Praia de Santa Maria
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inThe Santa Maria 3 Island Cruise in the Aegean w/ Free Audio Guide4.9★ · 564 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →
Most bookedBenagil Long Boat tour (From Carvoeiro to Praia da Marinha)4.9★ · 1,422 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$41 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleRincon de la Vieja/Santa Maria Hike & Hot Springs5★ · 24 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$95 per personSee dates →More attractions in Santa Maria