Do I need a driver’s license to rent the scooter?

Yes, a valid motorbike or scooter license is required to rent and operate the 125cc scooter.

Is helmet use mandatory?

Yes, helmets are provided and must be worn at all times during the ride.

How long can I rent the scooter for?

Rentals are generally for a full day (around 8 hours), but arrangements can be made for shorter or extended periods.

Are there any fuel policies I should know about?

Scooters are rented full-to-full on fuel; please refill before return to avoid additional charges.

What areas on Santa Maria are best accessed by scooter?

The scooter is ideal for reaching coastal roads, rural villages, beaches like São Lourenço, and overlooks such as Ponta do Castelo.

Is insurance included with the rental?

Yes, insurance coverage is included with every rental for peace of mind during your ride.

Scooter Rentals with Paraiso Radical on Santa Maria Island | Transportation

Santa Maria Island, the southernmost gem of the Azores archipelago, offers a rugged coastline sculpted by volcanic forces, golden beaches, and countryside roads that trace the edge of craters and lush valleys. Paraiso Radical invites adventurers to navigate this volcanic island’s varied terrain on their Orbit III 125cc scooters, a perfect blend of ease and excitement for discovering the island beyond hiking trails or buses.

Starting from their base in Vila do Porto, Paraiso Radical outfits riders with a full tank, helmet, insurance, and straightforward rental terms, allowing you to focus fully on the ride. The 125cc scooters provide enough power to handle the rolling hills and coastal routes with comfort and nimbleness. Meander along winding roads that open onto vistas of the Atlantic, past vivid hydrangea-lined lanes and the striking, pinkish-hued paleolava rock cliffs unique to Santa Maria.

What sets this rental apart is the freedom to set your own itinerary without worrying about schedules. From the dramatic cliffs at Ponta do Castelo to the tranquil waters at São Lourenço Bay, every turn reveals a new angle of island life, from small fishing villages to secluded sandy coves. The island’s mineral-rich soils support wildflowers and endemic birds, allowing riders to slow down for sighting trims of orange-tufted lava lizards or the occasional shearwater gliding overhead.

Paraiso Radical’s commitment to convenience and safety—key for an island with narrow rural roads and active volcanic heritage—makes it an ideal choice for riders comfortable with a motorbike license. This rental experience complements the Azores’ growing reputation as a destination where outdoor adventure meets authentic island culture and rugged natural beauty. For those aiming to see more than just the main tourist spots, the scooter unlocks a uniquely immersive way to engage with Santa Maria’s diverse landscapes and heritage.