Sal is one of Ten beautiful island located in Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa. Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Sal is a paradise for sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts.
When to visit
When planning your trip to Sal, it’s important to consider the best time to visit. The island enjoys a year-round warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The peak tourist season is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. However, if you prefer a quieter and more affordable experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to November.
For a week-long visit, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all that Sal has to offer however, if you are looking for a shorter trip I would recommend at least a four day trip to see all the island has to offer at a relaxing pace.
Where to stay
Once you have arrived on the stunning island of Sal in Cape Verde, it’s time to start exploring your local surroundings. Ideally, you would want to stay near Santa Maria, as this is where the majority of restaurants and shops are located. Santa Maria is a vibrant and colourful town, with a lively atmosphere and a beautiful beach. There are many hotels within walking distance to Santa Maria ranging from self catered apartments to all inclusive five star hotels.
What to do in Santa Maria
Begin your adventure by wandering around the shops in Santa Maria and admiring the handmade crafts being sold. You’ll find local artisans selling beautiful jewellery, colourful textiles and unique souvenirs. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses and take home a piece of Cape Verdean culture.
After exploring the shops, you’ll probably be quite hungry. Luckily, Santa Maria boasts a wide range of restaurants offering delicious local and international cuisine. Take your pick from seafood, traditional Cape Verdean dishes, or even Italian and Asian fusion options. Enjoy your dinner while taking in the breath-taking view of the beach. I personally recommend Sal’s Beach Club which offers a range of cuisines at an affordable price while, you feel the sand beneath your toes.
Getting around the island
Renting a car for a few days is highly recommended while on Sal. This allows you to visit all the attractions at your own pace and explore the island without restrictions. The island only has one main road up the middle of the island with smaller roads around the towns. When visiting the tourist attractions however, the roads slowly turn into sand roads over the dunes so, I would recommend a car a little sturdier then normal. When I visited the island I hired a Suzuki Jimny and it tackled the dunes with ease. However if you’re not comfortable driving, you can opt for a group tour that takes you to all the must-see places around the island during a day tour.
Ponta Preta
The next day, venture out to visit some of the amazing attractions near Santa Maria. One must-visit place is Ponta Preta, a stunning beach known for its amazing waves making it a surfer’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner wanting to try it out Ponta Preta offers the perfect conditions for everyone to enjoy. Additionally if you are just looking to soak up the sun Ponta Preta is an great beach to just relax and sunbathe while listening to the waves.
Dune of Sal
Another must-see is the Dune of Sal, a mesmerising natural landmark formed by the constant winds that shape the sand dunes. It’s a great spot for taking stunning photos and enjoying panoramic views of the island.
While exploring these attractions, be sure to keep reapplying sunscreen and staying hydrated as the sun can be quite intense in Cape Verde especially, with the strong winds distracting you from the heat. Protecting your skin is essential to fully enjoy your time on the island.
Salt Lakes
One of the most unique experiences on Sal is visiting the Salt Lakes. For a small fee of €5, you can witness the impressive salt production process, learn about its significance to the local economy and even take some stunning photos next to the vibrant salt formations after having a dip and experiencing the buoyancy of the lake for yourself.
Shark Bay
For an unforgettable adventure head to Shark Bay. This is a unique opportunity to walk out into the shallow waters surrounded by baby lemon sharks. Experienced guides will show you how to touch and interact with the sharks, providing an up-close and personal experience with these incredible creatures. You may also get the chance to see larger sharks, up to 3.4m long, swimming in the deeper water. Remember to bring sea shoes as you will have to walk across ragged rocks to get out and see the sharks.
Blue-Eyed Cave
The Baraconda Blue-Eyed Cave is another attraction that should not be missed. For just €3, you can explore this beautiful cave with a botanical garden on top in the shape of the islands. Which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Descend into the cave and discover its unique beauty, admiring the different formations and learning about its geological significance.
Village life
During your stay on Sal, be sure to also visit Palmeria, a quaint little village known for its charming architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Murdeira is another beautiful spot worth exploring, with its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Or just to grab a local bite to eat on the bay, Base Nautic snack-bar is a small restaurant on the beach. This small restaurant is a local gem with great food and friendly service.
Kite Beach
If you’re into kite surfing, want to give it a try or just want to watch others glide over the waves. Make sure to visit the kite surfing beach. Sal is renowned for its favourable wind and wave conditions, attracting kite surfers from all over the world. Enrol in a kite surfing lesson or watch the experts perform impressive tricks on the waves.
As your vacation comes to an end, spend the last couple of days on Santa Maria beach. This beach is highly recommended, especially if the waves are calm, as it offers a great opportunity to hire a paddleboard and explore the azure waters at your own pace. Paddle along the coastline, enjoy the gentle breeze, and soak up the stunning scenery surrounding you.
Sal, Cape Verde, truly offers something for everyone. Whether you are seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports, serene beach retreats, or cultural experiences, this beautiful island has it all.
From exploring local shops and indulging in delicious cuisine to visiting natural attractions and engaging with marine life, Sal in Cape Verde is a paradise waiting to be explored.