Beach Hotels & Resorts in Santa Maria from AU$138

For travellers prioritising beach access in Santa Maria, the best area to stay is along the main stretch of Santa Maria Beach, particularly around the central part of town.This area is the heart of Santa Maria's beachfront activity, running parallel to the main street, Rua 1 de Junho. You'll find many hotels and guesthouses directly on or just a short stroll from the sand. The beach here is wide, with soft white sand and calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The Ponta Preta area, slightly west of the main town, also offers direct beach access and is known for its watersports.Couples looking for a relaxing beach holiday will find this central beach area perfect. Many hotels offer direct beach access, often with private sun loungers and beach service. You're never far from a beachfront restaurant or bar, making it easy to enjoy a meal with a view or a sunset drink. The convenience of stepping straight from your accommodation onto the sand for a morning swim or an afternoon walk is a key draw.For those interested in watersports, the area around Ponta Preta is a good option. It's slightly quieter than the main town beach but still easily accessible.

The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Maria is from November to June, especially during the peak months of December and January. During this period, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 29°C. This delightful climate is superb for enjoying the pristine beaches, swimming in the Atlantic, and engaging in water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing. The calm, clear waters are also ideal for snorkelling and diving, allowing you to fully appreciate Santa Maria's marine life.Families and couples will find this a fantastic time for a beach holiday, as the consistent sunshine and gentle breezes create an idyllic setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. Many hotels offer extended beach services and entertainment during these months, suiting the increased number of visitors.As another option, October presents a wonderful alternative. While still very warm, with temperatures hovering around 28°C, it's a month when you may find better value on luxurious beachfront accommodations and it can be easier to secure reservations at popular restaurants.

The best beach activities in Santa Maria revolve around its stunning main beach, Praia de Santa Maria, which stretches for several kilometres along the town's northern edge.The main beach is easily accessible from most accommodations in Santa Maria, running from the iconic Pontão (pier) eastward. It's a wide, sandy expanse with calm, clear waters, making it ideal for a variety of water sports and relaxation. Along the beachfront, you'll find numerous beach clubs and shacks offering equipment hire and lessons.For couples, a leisurely stroll along the beach at sunset is a must-do, often followed by dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking in the calmer waters near the pier, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the coastline together.Families will find plenty to keep everyone entertained. The gentle waves are superb for children to splash and play in, and the wide sands provide ample space for building sandcastles.