Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, nestled along the picturesque northern coast of São Miguel in the Azores, offers an ecologically-conscious retreat overlooking the dramatic black sand beach. Opened in 2015, this pioneering eco-resort features 30 luxurious villas and studios harmoniously integrated into the coastal landscape.
The property seamlessly blends sustainable architecture with local materials like cryptomeria wood, cork, and bamboo, while offering modern amenities including a saltwater pool, wellness center, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Its striking location showcases panoramic views where lush green pastures meet azure Atlantic waters.
Their story
Founded in 2015 by João Reis, an enthusiastic surfer and entrepreneur, Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort emerged from a passion for the dramatic black beaches along São Miguel’s northern coast in the Azores. The resort was thoughtfully developed to harmonize with its stunning coastal surroundings. As the Azores’ first eco-beach resort, it exemplifies sustainable luxury through its farm-to-table program, environmental initiatives, and energy-efficient design.
Now part of the Singular Properties group, the resort features carefully designed villas and studios overlooking Santa Bárbara beach, offering guests a unique blend of comfort and ecological consciousness in a spectacular natural setting. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The resort was constructed in harmony with the coastal ecosystem, using local and natural materials like cryptomeria wood, cork, and bamboo. The buildings were strategically positioned to minimize landscape impact, while maximizing energy efficiency through thermal insulation and LED lighting.
- The resort features rainwater harvesting systems, native plant landscaping, and an organic farm that supplies their restaurants.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The buildings utilize natural materials like expanded cork agglomerate and cryptomeria wood for superior thermal insulation. Windows feature aluminum frames with thermal cut-off and double glazing rated A+.
- The resort’s hot water runs on highly efficient heat pumps.
- Villas incorporate key card systems that automatically switch off electricity when guests leave.
- The property also harnesses rainwater collection from roofs for irrigation, storing it in an on-site basin connected to a natural lake.
Pioneer in waste management
- Their approach includes reducing single-use items by using refillable glass amenity containers, cloth laundry bags instead of plastic, and paperless communication.
- Food waste is minimized through à la carte breakfast service and precise portion control.
- Surplus produce from their organic farm is shared with staff families.
- The property maintains dedicated recycling stations with clear signage throughout, ensuring proper waste separation. All collected waste is processed through authorized management operators.
- The resort conducts regular beach cleanups, removing hundreds of kilograms of debris annually to preserve coastal ecosystems.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The resort operates an organic farm that supplies fresh, chemical-free produce to their restaurants, promoting farm-to-table sustainability. They utilize natural farming methods like “no-dig” technique, applying organic materials directly to soil without artificial fertilizers.
- Their environmentally conscious approach extends to using natural cleaning products and organic toiletries from Voya, an algae-based brand.
Actively protects nature and community
- Their commitment extends to using organic amenities, supporting local suppliers, and training employees in sustainability practices. The property protects local biodiversity while offering guests an authentic eco-conscious experience in the Azores.
Most Popular Activities Near Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
- Surfing, SUP boarding, and bodyboarding lessons at Santa Bárbara beach.
- Whale watching and swimming with dolphins excursions.
- Scuba diving and snorkeling adventures.
- Off-road tours exploring lakes, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
- Hiking trails through forests and volcanic landscapes.
- Horseback riding along coastal paths.
- Bike and e-bike tours across the island.
- Canyoning through hidden valleys and streams.
- Farm-to-table experiences at their organic farm.
- Kayaking in volcanic lakes and coastal waters.
- Thermal bath experiences in natural hot springs.
- Wellness services including massages and yoga.
- Beach club activities and water sports.
- Gastronomic tours and local food tastings.
- Nature photography and wildlife observation.
- Exploring and relaxing on the beautiful nearby beaches.
Best Time To Visit Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
- The best time to visit Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort is year-round, as the Azores enjoys a mild climate.
- Summer months (June to September) are warmest and driest, perfect for surfing, beach activities, and outdoor adventures.
- Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer comfortable conditions for hiking and whale watching.
- Winter (December to February) remains relatively mild, ideal for thermal bathing and exploring the island’s cultural sites.
- The resort’s farm-to-table restaurant and wellness activities can be enjoyed in any season.