Located on the south-west coast of the island of Santa Maria, the Maia bathing area is set against a landscape of vineyards climbing up the hillside and protected by the dry stone walls of the army barracks. The bathing area consists of a natural saltwater swimming-pool, around which solariums and the necessary support facilities have been built. From here, you can see the imposing lighthouse of Maia, which dominates the surrounding landscape.

On the path leading to the beach, overlooking the harbour of Porto do Castelo is the viewing point of Vigia da Baleia, from where you can appreciate the great immensity of the ocean. The shoreline is composed of black rocks of volcanic origin, with crystal clear water and countless fishing boats.