Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort

Natural coastal landscape meets modern luxury

Overlooking the grand beach of Santa Barbara, Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, the Azores’ first ecologically-friendly eco-beach resort was opened in 2015. It began with a passion for the natural black beaches along the picturesque northern coast of São Miguel in the Azores. The unique, almost magical, green pastures and mountain hues that contrast with the azure blue oceans are the ideal backdrop for a calming resort retreat. The inviting natural coastal landscape, the elegance of the modern luxury spaces and the commitment to a full-range of experiences epitomizes the passion for the art of hospitality, nature and, above all, the Azores.

The resort is dedicated to sustainability: The architecture and luxury amenities, the Farm-to-Table supply chain, environmental support and energy/water efficiency programs were constituted to reduce the ecological impact, maintain the natural beauty and environmental balance of the coastal ecosystem.

Architecture in harmony with natural surroundings

The resort’s architectural design and the choice of materials were selected to blend harmoniously with natural surroundings. The minimalist architecture was adjusted to the morphology of the land, in order to minimize its impact on the natural landscape. This was enhanced by the use of natural building materials sourced locally or nationally, such as the islands’ cryptomeria, exotic bamboos and domestic cork that built on the simple natural setting.

Construction of the Santa Bárbara resort prioritized the use of natural materials, primarily the use of local wood (cryptomeria), cork and bamboo, and infused decorative elements that callback to traditional Azorean motifs and accents. Santa Bárbara's furniture was designed and built exclusively for the resort. Other decorations were made from repurposed materials, such as lamps which were made from oil containers of an abandoned farm, and the restaurant chairs and tables which were made from reused iron and covered with vegetable fiber, using matting crafts.

Moments of well-beeing

Santa Bárbara has several spaces where you can peacefully relax. The outdoor decks facing the sea are arranged in different corners, with chairs where you can simply sit and contemplate all the surrounding nature. Take a dip in the pool or go down to the beach. In the restaurant / bar you can dine or simply try one of the snacks, cocktails and gins. You can also relax at our Wellness Retreat and book a massage for a moment of pure pleasure and relaxation - with the sound of the sea as your background music. You can choose from 14 studios, 7 one bedroom villas and 9 two bedroom villas, all elegantly furnished with a small equipped kitchenette, a stylish living space and a spacious balcony that allows visitors to observe, contemplate and relax to the coastal breeze.

From-farm-to-table takes you to an oriental journey

Santa Bárbara offers a gastronomic concept that will take you through an oriental journey from India to Japan, in an unexpected discovery of exotic spices and authentic flavors. All this with the necessary praise for the quality of local products - which includes Azorean meat, fresh fish and seafood from the Atlantic, alongside the freshest vegetables, aromatic herbs and fruits that now arrive from our farm installed on the property, with two greenhouses and an approximate area of 4000m2. A way to guarantee a zero kilometer products and extra quality in a true “farm to table” concept.

Destination Tip

São Miguel Island is the largest island: a length of 62.1 kilometers and 15.8 kilometers at its maximum width. Its 744.7 km2 area is home to more than half of the population in the Azores. Santa Bárbara provides experiences that extend from the earth to the sea, so that anyone can enjoy everything that this island has to offer. The activities are best described as adventurous, natural and marked by a visit full of discovery. Whether more or less radical, there are experiences for everyone: Hiking, biking trails, quad-bike, canyoning, surfing, stand-up paddleboard. And don’t miss the opportunity for whale watching!