Curralinho Beach: A Tranquil Escape in Cape Verde Located on the southwestern coast of Boa Vista, Cape Verde, Curralinho Beach is a stunning destination that promises a peaceful and picturesque getaway. Also known as Santa Monica Beach, it’s renowned for its vast stretches of soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This unspoiled paradise remains a hidden gem, offering an authentic beach experience away from the hustle and bustle of commercialized destinations. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, exploration, or a peaceful retreat, Curralinho Beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature at its finest.
Praia Curralinho – Boavista
Key Highlights & Features
✔ Sand & Water Type Curralinho Beach boasts powdery white sands that stretch for miles, giving visitors plenty of space to relax or take long walks along the coastline. The turquoise waters are calm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for swimming and enjoying the serenity of the beach. The surrounding dunes add to the stunning landscape, making Curralinho Beach a true natural wonder.
✔ Size & Length One of the defining features of Curralinho Beach is its vastness. The beach extends over 18 kilometers, ensuring that visitors can always find a spot of solitude. The expansive sand dunes and crystal-clear waters make it the perfect place for both peaceful solitude and exploration.
✔ Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Curralinho Beach is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and the sunsets are absolutely breathtaking, providing an unforgettable experience. The beach is also a great place for turtle watching, as the area is known for turtle nesting during certain times of the year.
✔ Accessibility Reaching Curralinho Beach requires a bit of adventure, as it is located in a relatively remote part of Boa Vista. You can access the beach by car, with guided tours available for those who want to experience the journey through the island’s scenic dunes. For those venturing on their own, a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, as the sandy paths can be challenging. Despite its seclusion, the beach offers a unique and rewarding experience once you arrive.
✔ Crowd Level Curralinho Beach remains an untouched paradise with few visitors, allowing you to enjoy a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Its remoteness means it is rarely crowded, offering a serene escape into nature. It’s an ideal location for those looking for a quiet retreat or to enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Verde without the distractions of a busy tourist spot.
Water Activities: Curralinho Beach offers the perfect environment for swimming, as the waters are calm and clear. You can also enjoy snorkeling, as the waters are teeming with marine life. For those interested in water sports, kite surfing and paddleboarding are popular activities at this beach.
Land Activities: The expansive dunes surrounding Curralinho Beach make it a great spot for long walks and exploration. Hiking through the dunes or climbing to a viewpoint provides stunning panoramic views of the beach and the ocean. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of breathtaking landscapes to capture.
Wildlife & Nature Experiences: The area surrounding Curralinho Beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including the famous turtle nesting sites. Visitors can observe turtles laying their eggs or hatchlings making their way to the ocean. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, as the region is home to several species of native birds.
Local Attractions: In addition to the beach, there are other nearby beaches worth exploring, including Praia de Santa Monica and Praia Varadinho. These beaches also offer beautiful natural landscapes and tranquil waters. For a more cultural experience, consider visiting the nearby villages of Boa Vista.
Facilities & Amenities
Lifeguards: Curralinho Beach is not equipped with lifeguards, so visitors should take care when swimming and be cautious of strong currents.
Restaurants & Cafés: There are no large facilities at the beach itself, but there are a few small beach bars offering drinks and refreshments. Visitors should bring essentials, such as water and snacks, for a more comfortable stay.
Sunbeds & Umbrellas: As a natural and undeveloped beach, there are no sunbeds or umbrellas available. Visitors should come prepared with their own gear for shade and relaxation.
Toilets & Showers: There are no public toilets or showers at the beach. It is recommended to visit the nearby villages or plan for a trip with enough provisions.
Shops & Rentals: As the beach is quite secluded, visitors are advised to bring their own beach gear, including water shoes, sunscreen, and other essentials, as there are no rentals available nearby.
How to Get There 🚙
By Car: The easiest way to reach Curralinho Beach is by car. If you’re driving from the main town of Sal Rei, follow the road south towards Praia de Santa Monica. The beach is accessible via dirt roads and sandy tracks, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
By Public Transport: There are no direct public transport services to Curralinho Beach, but taxis and local 4×4 tours can take you there. You can arrange a tour or hire a taxi in Sal Rei or other nearby areas.
By Boat: The beach is not accessible by boat directly, but you can enjoy boat tours around Boa Vista that include stops at other nearby beaches.
By Foot: If you enjoy hiking, it’s possible to walk to Curralinho Beach from nearby areas, though this can be challenging due to the rugged terrain.
Safety & Practical Tips ⚠️
Swimming Conditions: The waters at Curralinho Beach are generally calm, but be aware of occasional strong waves. It’s recommended to swim in designated safe areas and avoid swimming too far out.
Sun Protection: Due to the strong sun and exposure, visitors should take precautions by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Bringing plenty of water and a picnic is also advised if you plan to stay for several hours.
Local Guidelines: Respect the natural environment by not littering and being mindful of local wildlife. The beach is an important nesting site for turtles, so avoid disturbing the area during nesting season.
Nearby Attractions & Accommodation 🏨
Hotels & Resorts: While there are no large resorts directly on Curralinho Beach, you can find accommodations in Sal Rei, which is the main town on the island. Hotels and guesthouses offer comfortable stays and are within driving distance to the beach.
Excursions & Day Trips: Consider taking a boat tour to explore other hidden beaches of Boa Vista or a dune adventure to experience the island’s unique landscapes.
Curralinho Beach is a true hidden gem, offering a peaceful, untouched escape for those seeking serenity and natural beauty in Cape Verde. Whether you’re looking to swim, hike, or simply relax, this beautiful beach provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature.
