This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our small business.
The best areas to stay in Sao Luis are the historic centre for sightseeing, Calhau for the beach, and Ponta d’Areia for restaurants and nightlife. Each area below lists three hotels across the budget range, all with verified Booking.com listings. The neighborhoods guide has more detail on what each zone is like. For an overview of the whole city, start with the Sao Luis city guide.
Where to Stay in Sao Luis: Historic Centre (Reviver)
Staying in the historic centre puts you within walking distance of Palacio dos Leoes, the cathedrals and the azulejo-lined streets of the UNESCO district. It is the best choice for a short, sightseeing-focused stay, but the area quiets down after dark. The weather by month guide tells you which weeks are driest, and the things to do guide plans your sightseeing.
Suggested Hotels in Historic Centre (Reviver)
Casa Frankie
Two restored colonial houses on Rua 28 de Julho with original azulejo tiles, a courtyard and a small pool in the heart of the historic district. Best for couples who want a boutique stay with period character. Check rates and availability
Pousada Portas da Amazonia
A mid-range pousada on Rua Vinte e Oito de Julho with wood-floored rooms, a garden and an on-site pizzeria, a short walk from Mercado Central. Best for travellers who want a colonial building without the boutique price tag. Check rates and availability
Reviver Hostel
A budget hostel in a restored historic building on Rua Nazare with an infinity pool and city views, 100 metres from the Museu de Arte Sacra. Best for solo travellers and backpackers watching their budget. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Sao Luis: Calhau and the Litoranea
Calhau is the main beach district, where hotels sit on or near Praia do Calhau and its strip of barracas and restaurants along Avenida Litoranea. It is the best choice for a beach holiday, about 15 minutes by car from the historic centre. The best time to visit guide has the beach season, and the events and festivals guide lists what is on.
Suggested Hotels in Calhau and the Litoranea
Blue Tree Towers Sao Luis
A five-star beachfront property on Calhau with a pool, spa, tennis court and a restaurant, directly on the sand. Best for families and travellers who want resort facilities on the beach. Check rates and availability
Litoranea Praia Hotel
A three-star hotel on Avenida Litoranea, right across from Calhau beach, with air-conditioned rooms and a pool. Best for beach-focused travellers who want a solid mid-range stay steps from the sand. Check rates and availability
Ibis Sao Luis
A budget chain hotel on Avenida dos Holandeses in Jardim Renascenca, about 500 metres from Calhau beach and near the shopping malls. Best for travellers who want a predictable, low-cost room near the beach. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Sao Luis: Ponta d’Areia and Sao Marcos
Ponta d’Areia and Sao Marcos run along the coast between Lagoa da Jansen and Praia de Sao Marcos. This is the city’s restaurant and sunset district, with the widest mix of upscale and mid-range hotels, and it is a short drive from both the centre and the airport. The travel tips guide covers transfers and getting around.
Suggested Hotels in Ponta d’Areia and Sao Marcos
Hotel Luzeiros Sao Luis
A five-star hotel on the Ponta do Farol waterfront with a spa, fitness centre, sauna and outdoor pool, steps from the beach. Best for couples and business travellers who want the city’s top-end stay. Check rates and availability
Soft Win Hotel Sao Luis
A two-star hotel in Ponta do Farol, about 260 metres from Ponta d’Areia beach, with air-conditioned rooms and a 24-hour restaurant. Best for budget-conscious travellers who still want to be near the beach. Check rates and availability
Hotel Santos Dumont Aeroporto SLZ
A three-star hotel on Avenida Guajajaras, 1.2 miles from Marechal Cunha Machado airport, with free parking and a restaurant. Best for early departures and travellers who need a clean room near the terminal. Check rates and availability
