Maia

Maia is located in the southwest coast of Santa Maria Island and is part of Santo Espírito parish. The landscape is formed by vineyards protected by windbreaks erected in solid stone which cover the surrounding hillsides. In the path that leads us to Maia, overlooking the port of Castelo, there is the viewpoint of the Whale Watch, which reminds us that the whaling activity had a relative weight in the economy of the island, in the first half of the 20th century. From this viewpoint we can enjoy the vastness of the ocean.
The seaside is made up of black rocks of volcanic origin, sided by crystal clear waters with countless fishing spots.
The official swimming zone was defined on a natural salt water pool around which where built the solariums and support infrastructures. In this spot it’s particularly pleasant the view towards the Lighthouse of Maia, a landmark dominating the landscape.