Santa Maria Beach Sal Cape Verde
A breathtaking expanse of golden sand meeting vibrant turquoise waters, Santa Maria Beach offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere with abundant activit...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer seas and fewer crowds
Santa Maria Beach Sal Cape Verde
Best Time
Calmer seas and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking expanse of golden sand meeting vibrant turquoise waters, Santa Maria Beach offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere with abundant activities and dining.
"Fantastic beach with golden soft sand and clear turquoise water."
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
🌊 Watch for Currents
Currents can be strong, especially in the afternoon. Be mindful of this when swimming, particularly with children.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Sands & Turquoise Waters
Miles of soft, golden sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Vibrant Beachfront Scene
Colorful fishing boats, lively bars, and restaurants create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
Water Sports Galore
From surfing to other aquatic adventures, enjoy a range of activities at pocket-friendly prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and Sea
Island Vibes & Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
🌊 Watch for Currents
Currents can be strong, especially in the afternoon. Be mindful of this when swimming, particularly with children.
💰 Euros Accepted Widely
Many restaurants and vendors happily accept Euros, but it's good to have some local currency too.
🍹 Beach Bar Hopping
Explore the numerous beach bars for refreshing drinks and snacks with stunning ocean views.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
🌊 Watch for Currents
Currents can be strong, especially in the afternoon. Be mindful of this when swimming, particularly with children.
💰 Euros Accepted Widely
Many restaurants and vendors happily accept Euros, but it's good to have some local currency too.
🍹 Beach Bar Hopping
Explore the numerous beach bars for refreshing drinks and snacks with stunning ocean views.
🎣 Local Fishing Boats
Admire the colorful fishing boats that add to the picturesque charm of the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa Maria Beach is widely praised for its stunning golden sands and clear turquoise waters, offering a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the abundance of beach bars, restaurants, and water sports activities available at reasonable prices. While generally clean and safe with lifeguards, some note that currents can be strong in the afternoons.
"Fantastic beach with golden soft sand and clear turquoise water.
It’s long stretched and so many people get to enjoy.
The currents can be strong especially in the afternoon , this makes watching the surfing more interesting.
Plenty of bars and food stops along the beach.
Few coconut vendors , which gets finished almost immediately.
Very close to the santa maria pier , hence lots of activity and boats along the area.
The temperatures were high and the dip in the sea was refreshing .
The water is warm.
There is also a spot for netball if you are interested.
Plenty of water sports available at a pocket friendly price."
abigael ngare
"It's an absolute gem ! Loads of sea life and activities!
It boasts a long, sweeping bay of soft, golden sand that meets stunningly clear, turquoise water. The vibe is wonderfully relaxed yet vibrant, with colourful fishing boats."
Guillmour Oliveira
"We prepare the restaurants by preparing the main dishes after 18:00 (6:00 p.m.), the main dishes are based on seafood and pizza, pasta bolinese, and other western food. The prices of the main dishes are from €9 to €20 (restaurants and merchants are happy to pay in €), drinks from €2.5 to €8."
Peter Babic Koncan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria Beach is located on the southern tip of Sal Island in Cape Verde. It's easily accessible from the town of Santa Maria, which is a short taxi or bus ride from Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID). Many resorts are also within walking distance or a short shuttle ride. 
Yes, taxis are readily available on Sal Island and can take you to Santa Maria Beach. Local buses also serve the area, offering a more budget-friendly option.
If you're staying in the town of Santa Maria, many hotels and resorts are within easy walking distance of the beach. Some accommodations are even located directly on the beachfront.
The Santa Maria Pier is a prominent landmark right on the beach, often bustling with activity and boats. The town of Santa Maria itself surrounds the beach area.
For exploring beyond the beach, consider booking day trips to attractions like the Buracona Lagoon or Viveiro Botanical Garden, often available from local tour operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Santa Maria Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it. You only pay for services like sun loungers or umbrellas if you choose to rent them.
As a public beach, Santa Maria Beach is accessible at all hours. However, beach bars and restaurants will have their own operating times, typically from morning until late evening.
No advance booking is necessary for general access to the beach. If you plan to rent sun loungers or umbrellas, you can usually arrange this on arrival.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but it's always good practice to respect the environment and local customs. Be mindful of the currents when swimming.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to Santa Maria Beach. However, supporting the local vendors and beach bars is also a great way to experience the local culture.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Santa Maria Beach offers a wide array of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and various water sports like surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.
The water is generally warm and turquoise, making it pleasant for swimming. However, be aware that currents can be strong, especially in the afternoon, so always exercise caution.
Yes, many areas of Santa Maria Beach are patrolled by lifeguards, contributing to a safe environment for visitors, especially families.
The beach is characterized by soft, golden sand, which is perfect for lounging and walking along the shore.
Absolutely! Numerous vendors along the beach offer rentals for sun loungers and umbrellas, providing comfort for your day in the sun.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of dining options, from beach bars serving snacks and drinks to restaurants offering fresh seafood, pizza, pasta, and other Western dishes.
Main dishes at restaurants generally range from €9 to €20, while drinks can cost between €2.5 to €8. Euros are widely accepted.
Vista Mar Beach bar & Restaurant is known for its sunset views and BBQ specialties, while Ocean Cabo Verde offers a restaurant, suites, and a disco pub.
While many places offer Western dishes, you can often find local seafood specialties. It's worth asking about daily catches or local recommendations.
Options might be limited, but many restaurants can accommodate dietary requests. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment about vegetarian or vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of beach offers stunning backdrops with its golden sand, turquoise water, and colorful fishing boats. The Santa Maria Pier is also a popular photo spot.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while sunset provides a magical golden hour glow. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
Capture the vibrant local life with the colorful fishing boats, or focus on the diverse marine life if you're lucky enough to spot it.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your accommodation for any restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many beach bars offer kid-friendly options, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to spend a full day here. The availability of water sports might appeal to older children and teenagers looking for a bit more adventure. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks from the sun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for accommodations slightly away from the prime beachfront locations for better rates. Many restaurants offer affordable main dishes, and happy hour deals at beach bars can also help manage expenses. Enjoying the natural beauty of the beach itself is free, so focus on soaking up the sun and the atmosphere.
couples
Many beach bars provide a charming setting for evening drinks with ocean views, and some even feature live music. Consider booking a beachfront hotel or a suite with a sea view for a more intimate experience. Indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the seaside restaurants, savoring fresh seafood as the waves lull you. The vibrant yet laid-back vibe makes it easy to unwind and connect.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Santa Maria Beach: A Traveler's Guide
The waters here are generally warm and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip. However, visitors should be aware that currents can become quite strong, particularly in the afternoons. This makes the beach a popular spot for watching surfers and kite surfers who expertly navigate the waves. Lifeguards are present in many sections, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers and families.
Beyond the natural beauty, Santa Maria Beach is a hub of activity. Colorful fishing boats dot the shoreline, adding a picturesque charm. Numerous beach bars and restaurants line the promenade, offering everything from casual drinks and snacks to full seafood meals. Water sports centers are also abundant, providing opportunities for activities like windsurfing, paddleboarding, and more, often at reasonable prices.
Dining and Delights at Santa Maria
Prices for main courses typically fall between €9 and €20, and drinks range from €2.5 to €8. Euros are widely accepted and often preferred by local vendors. For those seeking a specific dining experience, Vista Mar Beach bar & Restaurant is noted for its sunset views and BBQ specialties, while Ocean Cabo Verde offers a more comprehensive experience with a restaurant, suites, and a disco pub.
+1While many establishments focus on international cuisine, it's always worth inquiring about local Cape Verdean dishes, especially fresh seafood catches. For budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer to picnic, bringing your own food and drinks is also a common practice on the beach.
Capturing the Essence of Santa Maria
The best times for photography are typically during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and warm, casting a magical glow over the landscape. Early mornings also offer a chance to capture the beach before it gets too crowded, allowing for cleaner shots of the scenery. Midday sun can be harsh, but it also brings out the vivid blues of the water.
Beyond the landscapes, don't miss the chance to capture the local culture. The colorful fishing boats, the fishermen at work, and the lively atmosphere of the beach bars all contribute to the unique character of Santa Maria. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the beach and ocean, and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit