loaderimg
image

Discover Praia Real – A Hidden Beach Treasure in Maio

Beach Introduction

Beach Name & Location

Praia Real is a breathtaking and tranquil beach located on Maio Island, part of the Cape Verde archipelago off the west coast of Africa. Positioned in the northern part of the island, Praia Real is one of the many stunning beaches that make Maio a peaceful sanctuary for travelers seeking untouched nature and true relaxation.

Short Overview

Praia Real is not your typical tourist beach. With fine white sand and warm, crystal-clear waters, it offers an almost surreal escape from modern life’s noise. The area is surrounded by other notable beaches like Praia Preta, Pau Seco, and Boca do Morro, but Praia Real stands out for its serenity and wild charm. It is also one of the island’s key locations for sea turtle nesting, offering visitors a unique natural spectacle.

Praia Real beach on Maio Island with pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and serene, untouched surroundings ideal for turtle watching and beach walks

Key Highlights & Features

Sand & Water Type
Praia Real boasts ultra-fine white sand that feels soft beneath your feet. The waters are warm, turquoise, and clear, offering postcard-worthy views at every turn.

Size & Length
The beach stretches generously along the northern coast of Maio, giving ample space to explore, walk, or simply relax in isolation. While not as large as Praia Ponta Preta, it provides a more intimate and serene setting.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Praia Real is between May and October. This is the ideal season for warm weather, calm seas, and the chance to witness sea turtles nesting, especially at night.

Accessibility
Getting to Praia Real can be an adventure in itself. The beach is accessible via dirt roads or with guided tours from nearby villages like Morrinho. There are no formal signs, which adds to its sense of discovery.

Crowd Level
Praia Real is almost always secluded. Unlike the more popular beaches, it remains off the beaten path, making it a perfect destination for solitude seekers and nature lovers.

Activities & Things to Do

🌊 Water Activities

  • Snorkeling & Diving: Discover a rich marine ecosystem with vibrant underwater life.
  • Swimming: Calm and safe waters invite swimmers of all levels.
  • Kitesurfing & Windsurfing: Due to favorable winds, Praia Real is also loved by wind sport enthusiasts.

🌴 Land Activities

  • Turtle Watching: Visit during nesting season to see turtles laying eggs.
  • Beachcombing: The beach is full of colorful seashells and other natural treasures.
  • Photography: Capture stunning shots of unspoiled landscapes and sunsets.

🌿 Wildlife & Nature Experiences
Praia Real is one of the most important turtle nesting sites in Cape Verde. At night, you can watch these magnificent creatures come ashore to lay their eggs, a life-affirming moment for any nature enthusiast.

Facilities & Amenities

  • Lifeguards: No. Praia Real is a natural beach with no formal safety supervision.
  • Restaurants & Cafés: None on site. Nearby villages like Morrinho may offer local food options.
  • Sunbeds & Umbrellas: Not available – bring your own or enjoy the natural shade.
  • Toilets & Showers: No facilities; plan accordingly.
  • Shops & Rentals: Very limited. It’s best to bring everything you need from Vila do Maio or Morrinho.

How to Get There 🚙

🚗 By Car
From Vila do Maio, head north toward Morrinho. Local guides can help you find the path to Praia Real via dirt roads. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended.

🚌 By Public Transport
Public transport is scarce. Shared taxis or local tours are the best options.

🚤 By Boat
Boats occasionally circle the island for snorkeling trips, but Praia Real is better reached by land.

🚶 By Foot
Adventurous visitors can hike from nearby beaches like Baía de Santana, enjoying scenic views and complete immersion in nature.

Safety & Practical Tips ⚠️

Swimming Conditions
Generally calm, but always check local conditions as there are no lifeguards.

Sun Protection
Bring high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. The sun can be intense, and shade is minimal.

Local Guidelines
Do not disturb turtle nests. Keep the beach clean – no littering is allowed. Respect the local environment and the people who live nearby.

Nearby Attractions & Accommodation 🏨

  • Hotels & Resorts
    Most accommodations are in Vila do Maio or nearby Morrinho, including guesthouses and eco-lodges that emphasize sustainability and community.
  • Other Beaches
    Visit Ponta Preta, a tourist favorite for its scenic beauty and soft waves.
  • Excursions & Day Trips
    Book a diving trip or explore the traditional fishing village of Morrinho, where locals still live off the sea in harmony with nature.
image

Sorry. Due to Copyright, you cannot copy content.