Pedras do Mar Spa Hotel Review: Instagram vs. Reality
I’ll be the first to admit it: I booked Pedras do Mar Spa Hotel after seeing it on Instagram. The ocean views, the dreamy-looking infinity pool, and the peaceful vibe all looked like exactly what I needed for the last part of my Azores trip.
And to be fair—it’s not not lovely. But it also wasn’t exactly what I expected.
Let’s break it down.
Sunset from the pool deck, Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
First Impressions
Pedras do Mar is tucked along the northern coastline of São Miguel, between Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande. The location is peaceful and scenic, a little removed from the hustle of town but still an easy drive to restaurants, shops, and nearby trailheads.
When you pull in, the setting is undeniably beautiful. The property sits right above the ocean, with dramatic cliffs and salty breezes. The lobby and public spaces have a crisp, modern look. Staff were welcoming, check-in was smooth, and I had high hopes.
Views from the pool deck, Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
The Rooms & Spa Area
Here’s where things started to diverge from the Instagram version.
The rooms are clean and functional, but felt a little dated. Think early 2000s European hotel design—muted tones, basic furnishings, and lighting that isn’t exactly “spa getaway” mood. Nothing wrong with them, just not quite the fresh, modern aesthetic I had envisioned. Same goes for the indoor spa area—it checks the boxes (pool, sauna, Turkish bath), but feels more practical than luxurious.
To be honest, I had just come from Landescape Furnas, which probably set the bar a little too high. (If you haven’t read my full Landescape review, [check it out here]—that place was pure serenity and the ultimate solo stay.) But comparing the two is a bit apples-to-oranges: one is a peaceful, design-forward boutique stay with only five units, and the other is a full-service 5-star resort catering to a wider audience, including families.
Spa, Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
Indoor Pool, Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
What Pedras Does Well
What I did love was the view from the outdoor pool—absolutely stunning. The pool itself overlooks the ocean, and even when the weather didn’t cooperate, it was still a beautiful spot to relax. The grounds are spacious, the bar and restaurant area was lively and inviting, and the staff throughout the property were attentive and kind.
There’s also a spa on site (with a full menu of treatments), a gym, both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, a Turkish bath, and continental breakfast included in your stay. All the amenities are here, and for a lot of travellers—especially families or couples looking for a base with services—it definitely works.
Sunset from the pool deck, Pedras do Mar, Azores, Portugal
Who It’s Best For
I think Pedras do Mar is a better fit for travelers who want a classic resort experience: breakfast included, pools and spa on site, ocean views, and easy parking. It’s a solid option for families, or those who prefer the ease and consistency of a larger property.
If you’re a solo traveler like me who craves something quieter, design-focused, and a little more tucked away, you might feel the same mismatch I did. Especially if you’re coming off a more boutique-style experience like Landescape, the transition can feel a bit jarring.
Azores, Portugal
Would I stay at Pedras do Mar again? Probably not—but that’s more about personal preference than any serious issue with the hotel. It’s objectively a nice stay with thoughtful service and good amenities. It just wasn’t quite the vibe I was looking for.
If you’re seeking a 5-star resort on São Miguel that’s family-friendly, offers full amenities, and is perched right on the coastline, Pedras do Mar might check your boxes. Just go in with the right expectations—Instagram has a way of filtering reality.
If you’re more into the calm, quiet, tucked-away sort of stay, I’d nudge you toward somewhere like Landescape Furnas or Santa Bárbara Eco-Resort.
Because at the end of the day, travel is about knowing what fills your cup—and this trip reminded me that mine is filled by quiet mornings, big windows, and places that feel just a little more personal.
Want help deciding which Azores stay fits your style? Let me know in the comments—I’m happy to share more insights from my trip!
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