Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria Beach: Cape Verde’s Most Iconic Shoreline

1. Beach Introduction

Welcome to Santa Maria Beach, Sal Island – Cape Verde

Santa Maria Beach is located on the south coast of Sal Island, Cape Verde, stretching from the heart of Santa Maria town to the scenic point of Ponta do Sinó, the island’s southernmost tip. As one of the most famous and frequently visited beaches in the entire archipelago, this beach offers an unbeatable combination of beauty, accessibility, and vibrant atmosphere.

With its turquoise and emerald waters, soft white sand, and charming pier, Santa Maria Beach is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet swim or watching local children dive off the iconic Pontão de Santa Maria, this beach captures the spirit of Cape Verde like no other.

2. Key Highlights & Features

✔ Sand & Water Type: The sand is ultra-soft and bright white, while the water shimmers in shades of turquoise and emerald. It’s calm, clean, and clear—ideal for swimmers of all ages.

✔ Size & Length: Santa Maria Beach stretches along several kilometers, offering both spacious areas for sunbathing and quieter corners for reflection.

✔ Best Time to Visit: Visit between November and June for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Mid-September is also popular thanks to the Festival da Praia de Santa Maria, a major cultural event held right on the sand.

✔ Accessibility: Easily reachable by car, foot, or even boat. Located within the town of Santa Maria, it’s close to accommodations, shops, and restaurants.

✔ Crowd Level: This is a lively beach—bustling with locals and tourists during the day, especially near the pier and hotel zones. Quieter areas can still be found farther from town.

3. Activities & Things to Do

Discover the Best of Sal

• Water Activities: With its warm, calm waters, Santa Maria Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and diving. Nearby surf schools also offer lessons for beginners.
  
• Land Activities: Enjoy beach walks, photography at Pontão, or sunset yoga. The beach is also great for kids to play and explore.
  
• Wildlife & Nature Experiences: Though not a turtle nesting hotspot, occasional sightings are possible. The beach’s clean water also attracts seabirds.
  

Local Attractions: Don’t miss the Pontão de Santa Maria, where fishermen unload their catch and locals leap joyfully into the sea. The Festival da Praia de Santa Maria brings music, food, and dancing every September.

4. Facilities & Amenities

• Lifeguards: There are usually no full-time lifeguards, so swim responsibly.
  
• Restaurants & Cafés: A wide selection of beach bars, seafood restaurants, and international cuisine spots line the beachfront and surrounding streets.
  
• Sunbeds & Umbrellas: Available for rent through hotels and beach vendors—plenty of options for lounging in style.
  
• Toilets & Showers: Public and hotel-run facilities are available in the area.
  

Shops & Rentals: Rent snorkeling equipment, book a boat tour, or grab sunscreen and beachwear at the nearby stores.

5. How to Get There 🚙

• By Car: Easily accessible from any part of Sal. Parking is available in and around Santa Maria.
  
• By Public Transport: Aluguers (shared taxis) and private transfers are common and inexpensive ways to get here.
  
• By Boat: Arrive in style via private boat or enjoy a catamaran tour that anchors near the beach.
  

By Foot: If you’re staying in Santa Maria, the beach is just a short stroll away from most accommodations.

6. Safety & Practical Tips ⚠️

✅ Swimming Conditions: The water is usually very calm, especially near the pier. Keep an eye on children and avoid rocky sections.

✅ Sun Protection: Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a beach umbrella if you plan to stay all day.

✅ Local Guidelines: Respect local customs and avoid littering. Support eco-friendly businesses and avoid disturbing the fishermen’s work near the pier.

7. Nearby Attractions & Accommodation 🏨

• Hotels & Resorts:
  
  • Odjo d’Agua Hotel – Boutique charm with direct beach access.
    
  • Hotel Morabeza – A local favorite with pools, restaurants, and beachfront location.
    
  • Hotel Oasis Salinas Sea – Perfect for families and beach lovers, just steps from the sand.
    
• Other Beaches:
  
  • Ponta Preta Beach – A hotspot for surfers and sunset watchers.
    
  • Kite Beach – Popular with kiteboarders and adventurers.
    
• Excursions & Day Trips:
  
  • Book a boat tour to spot dolphins, take a quad ride through the island’s dunes, or visit the Salt Flats of Pedra de Lume and Buracona’s Blue Eye.