Santa Maria holidays

How to reach Santa Maria

Flight time: Direct flights to Santa Maria land at Amílcar Cabral International Airport, which serves the island of Sal, and are available from major UK airports, typically taking about 6 hours.

Transfer time: Once you land, it's a 20-minute drive to Santa Maria. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available at the airport.

Price: The taxi fare from the airport to Santa Maria is typically €15–€20. Many hotels also offer pre-arranged shuttle services, which are often included in your holiday package.

Best time to visit Santa Maria

Santa Maria holidays are comfortable all year round, with a moderate climate and little rain, but the seasons do have some different characteristics.

• November to May is high season in Boa Vista, with temperatures averaging around 24°C, the least rain and plenty of sunshine, so great conditions for beach days and watersports. Nights can be cool though, especially between January and March when the northeasterly winds are strongest.

• June to October sees slightly warmer temperatures, averaging 26°C, although during July and August it tops out at over 26°C. Towards the end of summer there is higher humidity and more chance of occasional showers, and there are generally fewer tourists around than in peak season.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Portuguese is the official language, with many locals also speaking the local language in Cape Verde, Creole. English is commonly used in tourist areas, but some places in remote areas might have no-one speaking anything but Portuguese and Creole, so learning a few phrases might come in handy.

• Local habits and customs: The pace of life is relaxed in Santa Maria. Dress is casual, but modesty is appreciated, especially when visiting local villages or religious sites. Cape Verdeans are known for their morabeza, a local term for warm hospitality. A relaxed and friendly approach is appreciated when interacting with locals.

• Currency: The local currency in Cape Verde is the escudo (CVE), but euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. Don’t change too much money, though, as it can be expensive to change them back. Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs, and credit or debit cards are accepted in most tourist-oriented businesses.

• Getting around: Minibuses known as aluguers are the primary mode of public transport, offering an affordable way to explore the island, although they have no timetable and no fixed stops. Fares typically range from €1–€2 for short distances. Taxis are also available, with rates either metered or set by the local government.

• Electricity and plug types: 220V, 50Hz, with standard European two round-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor for their devices.

• Time zone: Cape Verde Time (CVT) is 1 hour behind GMT, with no daylight saving time observed.

Best things to do in Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a developing resort on the south coast of the island of Sal, the most vibrant hub for tourism in Cape Verde. Here's a rundown of the top activities and sights that make holidays to Santa Maria so memorable.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Ponta Sino: The southernmost point of Sal Island offers spectacular views of the sea and is a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset.

• Monte Leão: A gentle hike to this natural viewpoint offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged landscape and the western coastline. Another spot that’s great at sunset.

The best districts

• Central Santa Maria: The heart of this town – now the biggest on the island – is vibrant with colourful streets lined with cafés, shops and music venues. There’s a lively jetty where the daily catch is landed.

• Espargos: Although not particularly attractive, the capital of the island has an authentic atmosphere with a shady main square, low-key bars and laid-back street life. It can be a good place to try some Creole cooking or catch some traditional music.

Day trips in the area

• Pedra de Lume: Located in an extinct volcano crater, these salt pans were historically significant for the island, and now offer a unique swimming experience due to the buoyancy of the saltwater.

• Boat tours: Trips out to sea can be booked to explore the coast of Sal, or to head out for some offshore diving and watch the area’s marine life. You can also visit the nearby island of Boa Vista.

Activities for families in Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a wonderful destination for family holidays. It offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring everyone has a memorable time.

• Beaches: The pale, sandy beaches along the coast in the south of Sal are some of the most appealing in the Cape Verde islands and perfect for families. Try your hand at watersports, play beach volleyball or enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic. Santa Maria Beach, with its shallow waters and gentle waves, is particularly suitable for children.

• Snorkelling trips: Take the family on a snorkelling adventure to explore the crystal-clear water and colourful reefs around Santa Maria. Many local operators offer family-friendly tours that include equipment and guidance suitable for beginners.

• Horse-riding: Experience horse-riding along the scenic beaches and salt flats or through the dunes. Stables close to Santa Maria offer guided tours suitable for all skill levels, including children.

Free things to do in Santa Maria

Even on a budget, Santa Maria offers plenty of free or low-cost activities to enrich your holiday.

• Festivals: Depending on the timing of your visit, engage in local festivals such as the Santa Maria Festival in September, featuring music, dance, and free street performances.

• Beach hopping: Spend a day visiting various beaches – from the popular Santa Maria Beach to the more secluded Kite Beach, which are free and open to the public.

Wellness in Santa Maria

• Spas and wellness centres: Many of the resorts in Santa Maria boast full-service spas offering a variety of treatments from massages to body wraps, all designed to soothe and pamper. Utilising local ingredients like salt, aloe and coconut, they provide a unique tropical twist to their therapies.

• Yoga and pilates: Start your day the peaceful way with a yoga session in a studio or on the beachfront overlooking the sea, or book a yoga retreat for the ultimate in serene breaks. The sound of the waves and the gentle ocean breeze provide a perfect backdrop for mindfulness practices.

• Pedra de Lume: At the crater that's home to Sal's salt flats, for just a few euros you can float in saltwater pools with salinity levels 27 times that of the sea, or enjoy cleansing your skin with salt or mud. Alternatively, book a treatment or massage at the spa.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Watersports: As well as being one the top five spots for windsurfing in the world, Sal is also excellent for kitesurfing and surfing, and suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Many schools along the beach provide lessons and equipment rental.

• Snorkelling and diving: The clear waters and rich marine life make Santa Maria a fantastic place for snorkelling and diving. Explore underwater volcanic formations and vibrant coral reefs, or take a guided dive to shipwrecks around the island.

• Hiking and biking: Explore the island’s diverse landscapes by foot or bike. Several trails lead you through the salt flats, along sandy beaches and to rocky cliffs, offering stunning views and a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty up close.

• Eco-tours: Participate in guided eco-tours to learn about the local flora and fauna. These tours include bird-watching, whale- and dolphin-watching, turtle-spotting during nesting season, and visits to protected areas to understand the conservation efforts in place.

• Off-road driving: Either taking a 4WD tour or driving quad bikes, this is a great way to explore the barren-looking interior and see some of the more hidden sides to the island.

Discover the best beaches on your Santa Maria holidays

Santa Maria, located on the sun-drenched island of Sal in Cape Verde, is renowned for its stunning beaches, which are among the most beautiful in the archipelago. Whether you’re looking to relax on soft sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, or try out exciting water sports, Santa Maria’s beaches offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the top beaches you can enjoy during your Santa Maria holidays:

• Santa Maria Beach: The main beach in Santa Maria is a picture-perfect stretch of golden sand that runs along the town’s coastline. The calm, turquoise waters make it ideal for swimming, and the steady breeze provides excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The beach is lined with restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks while taking in the ocean views. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or engage in water sports, Santa Maria Beach is the perfect spot to spend your days.

• Ponta Preta Beach: Just a short distance from the town centre, Ponta Preta Beach is famous for its waves, making it a popular destination for surfers and kitesurfers. The beach’s dramatic, windswept landscape and powerful surf attract water sports enthusiasts from around the world, especially during the winter months when the waves are at their best. For those who prefer to relax, Ponta Preta offers a more secluded environment where you can enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds.

• Kite Beach: As the name suggests, Kite Beach is the go-to spot for kitesurfing in Santa Maria. Located a few kilometres east of the main town, this beach is a haven for kitesurfers of all levels, with consistent winds and a dedicated kitesurfing school offering lessons and equipment rentals. Even if you’re not into kitesurfing, Kite Beach is worth a visit for its lively atmosphere and the spectacle of colourful kites dancing in the sky.

• Algodoeiro Beach: Algodoeiro Beach, situated on the western edge of Santa Maria, offers a more tranquil and less crowded beach experience. The beach is backed by sand dunes and has a rugged, natural beauty that’s perfect for those looking to escape the busier spots. The waters here are also great for swimming, and the sunsets are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening by the sea.

• Shark Bay: For a unique beach experience, visit Shark Bay, where you can wade into the shallow waters and see lemon sharks swimming around your feet. This beach is a fantastic spot for eco-tourists and families looking for an unforgettable adventure. Local guides are available to provide information about the sharks and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Tips for enjoying Santa Maria’s beaches

• Best time to visit: The beaches of Santa Maria are enjoyable year-round, but the best time for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing is from November to March, when the winds are strongest.

• Sun protection: The sun in Cape Verde can be intense, so be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while enjoying the beaches.

• Local cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try the fresh seafood available at the beachside restaurants, including local favourites like grilled fish, octopus, and the Cape Verdean specialty, cachupa.

Santa Maria’s beaches are the highlight of any visit, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re lounging on the sands, riding the waves, or exploring the marine life, the beaches of Santa Maria promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Local dishes in Santa Maria

Exploring the culinary landscape of Santa Maria is one of the great delights of holidays to this vibrant Cape Verdean destination. From fresh seafood to exotic local dishes, there is something to tantalise every palate.

Some typical dishes

• Cachupa: Considered the national dish, this hearty stew made with corn, beans and vegetables is a staple on the island. Meat or fish are often added for special occasions.

• Pastéis de Atum: Tuna pastries that are a popular snack or starter, perfect for sampling local flavours in small bites.

• Cuscuz: A steamed cornmeal cake that is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, sometimes served with honey or sugar.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Bife de Atum: Fresh tuna is a local favourite, typically grilled simply with olive oil and garlic to highlight its natural flavours.

• Lagostada: A luxurious dish featuring lobster cooked in a rich, garlic-infused sauce.

• Polvo à Lagareiro: Tender octopus grilled and drizzled with olive oil, typically served with boiled potatoes.

Sweets and desserts

Pudim de Leite: This caramel flan is a favourite dessert, offering a creamy texture and rich flavour that perfectly complements a meal under the sun. Pasteis de Nata: Based on the iconic Portuguese custard tart, with flaky pastry and a creamy filling, these delectable desserts are popular choices in bakeries across Cape Verde.

Local drinks

• Grogue: A powerful local rum made from sugar cane, often enjoyed on its own or in Cape Verde's version of the caipirinha.

• Ponche: A sweet liquor, usually homemade, made from grogue infused with either honey or fruit, such as mango or passion fruit.