Sal

How many days: 7

Spend your first two days exploring Santa Maria and enjoying its beach. Set aside a day to see Pedra de Lume, Buracona and the island's northern landscapes. Another day can be devoted to snorkelling or a water sport, depending on the conditions.

Use the rest of your stay for quieter beach time, coastal walks and exploring local food. Sal works well as a week-long break, although three or four days is enough to see its main sights. Allow flexibility because strong wind can affect sea activities.

What to do in Sal

Relax on Santa Maria Beach

Enjoy the island's best-known stretch of sand, with space for walking and swimming when conditions allow. The beach is also a good place to watch water sports.

Explore Santa Maria

Walk through the town's compact streets and around its pier. Fishing activity and everyday local life add character beyond the beach.

Float at Pedra de Lume

Visit the salt pans inside an old volcanic crater. The mineral-rich water offers an unusual floating experience where access is permitted.

See Buracona

Explore the rocky coastal area and its famous natural pool and underwater light effect. Viewing conditions depend on sunlight and sea state.

Visit Shark Bay

Observe lemon sharks in shallow coastal water on a responsible guided visit. Follow local instructions and avoid disturbing the animals.

Try kitesurfing

Take advantage of Sal's reliable winds at an appropriate beach. Qualified instruction is essential for beginners.

Explore Espargos

Visit the island's main administrative town for a look at local streets and everyday life away from the resorts.

Walk along Ponta Preta

See the dramatic surf and exposed coastline west of Santa Maria. It is particularly interesting for watching experienced surfers.

Take a snorkelling excursion

Explore suitable coastal waters with local guidance. Visibility and access depend on wind, waves and the chosen site.

Watch fishing boats at the pier

Spend time around Santa Maria's waterfront when fishing activity is taking place. Keep clear of working equipment and respect the crews.

What to eat and drink

Try cachupa

Enjoy Cape Verde's traditional maize-and-bean stew, with vegetables and sometimes fish or meat. It is one of the best ways to sample local cooking.

Eat grilled tuna

Choose fresh tuna prepared simply with local seasoning. Pair it with rice, vegetables or potatoes.

Sample catchupa refogada

Try the fried version of cachupa, often served as a hearty breakfast. It is a practical and flavourful local staple.

Enjoy a seafood stew

Look for fish or shellfish cooked with vegetables and a seasoned broth. Ask about the ingredients and the available catch.

Try a Cape Verdean pastry

Choose a savoury pastel or a simple sweet from a local bakery. It makes a useful snack between activities.

Taste grogue

Cape Verde's traditional sugarcane spirit is part of local food culture. Try it in moderation, or choose fresh juice instead.

Getting around

Santa Maria is compact and easy to explore on foot, especially around the beach and central streets. Travelling to Espargos, Pedra de Lume or Buracona requires transport. Shared local vehicles may be available on common routes, but they are not always convenient for sightseeing or remote coastal stops.

Taxis are a practical choice for transfers and individual trips; agree the fare beforehand. Hiring a car or arranging a driver gives you flexibility for a full island circuit. Some attractions involve rough tracks, so use suitable transport. Wind and heat can make longer walks across open ground uncomfortable.

Good to know

• Strong winds are common, especially during the windier months. They can affect swimming, boating and beach comfort.
• The Atlantic can have powerful waves and currents even beside popular beaches.
• Bring sun protection and drinking water, as shade is limited across much of the island.
• Do not enter natural pools or rocky coastal water when waves are breaking heavily.
• Carry some cash for smaller shops, transport and local purchases.
• Use responsible wildlife guides and avoid feeding or touching sharks and other marine animals.