Surf House Hostel is a social, well-located hostel in Santa Maria, ideal for surfers and solo travellers. Friendly staff, lockers and useful common areas stand out. The experience varies with occupancy and cleanliness, but on a good week it’s easy to get hooked.

Porta do Vento is a simple, quiet hotel in Santa Maria, ideal for travellers seeking authenticity and friendly service. Good location, a family atmosphere and basic facilities, with a few clear limitations worth knowing before you book.

Odjo d’Agua is a characterful hotel in the heart of Santa Maria, built directly over the sea. Spectacular views, a calm atmosphere and immediate access to local life, with charm, history and a few nuances worth knowing before booking.

Murdeira Village is a quiet seaside retreat with a saltwater pool and a striking natural setting. Ideal for resting away from Santa Maria, provided you accept the isolation, limited transport options and uneven room quality. A place to slow down, not to be entertained.

Atlantic Sal Hostel is a backpacker hostel in Santa Maria with a shared kitchen and social rooftop. Friendly atmosphere, but heat, shared bathrooms and inconsistent cleanliness depending on the room. Works with modest expectations; frustrating if you expect comfort.

Small, well-located hotel in Santa Maria with a quiet feel and good value, but inconsistent services like breakfast, Wi-Fi, or air conditioning. Great if you prioritise location and a local vibe, less so if you want a flawlessly smooth stay.

Yacht Club Sal is a clean, quiet accommodation in Palmeira, ideal for stopovers or travellers avoiding mass tourism. With a pleasant terrace, easy self check-in and outstanding hospitality, it’s perfect if you know where you are — and why you’re there.

Damfjord Hotel Boutique is a small, very clean hotel in the heart of Santa Maria, just steps from the beach and pedestrian street. Well-kept breakfast, a rooftop pool to cool off, and exceptionally attentive staff. Be mindful of street noise and book with solid confirmation.