By If you’re dreaming of endless sun, warm waters, and uncrowded white-sand shores, a Cape Verde beach is your perfect escape. Located off the west coast of Africa, the Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) archipelago offers year-round sunshine, diverse landscapes, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Atlantic.
With 10 unique islands, Cape Verde is ideal for:
- Beach holidays
- Water sports
- Relaxation and wellness
- Eco-tourism and island hopping
Whether you’re after a luxury resort or a secluded shoreline, here’s everything you need to know.
Where Is Cape Verde?
- Location: 570 km off the coast of Senegal, West Africa
- Country: Republic of Cabo Verde
- Flight Time from UK/Europe: 5–6 hours
- Climate: Tropical dry climate, 24–30°C year-round
Top Cape Verde Beach Destinations
Santa Maria Beach – Sal Island
Best for: Resorts, swimming, sunbathing
- Most famous Cape Verde beach
- 8 km of white sand and turquoise water
- Great for beginners learning to windsurf or kitesurf
- Close to restaurants, shops, and beach bars
Top hotels nearby: MELIÁ Llana, Oasis Salinas Sea, Hilton Cabo Verde
Praia de Chaves – Boa Vista
Best for: Seclusion, sunset walks
- Long, unspoiled beach on Boa Vista’s west coast
- Sand dunes and golden tones
- Excellent for romantic getaways and photoshoots
- Ideal for peaceful strolls and watching the waves
Quiet, natural setting—bring your own shade or picnic
Ponta Preta – Sal Island
Best for: Windsurfing and kitesurfing
- A mecca for water sports lovers
- Hosts international windsurfing competitions
- Powerful Atlantic waves and consistent winds
- Not ideal for casual swimming, but stunning to visit
Visit between Nov–March for best conditions
Estoril Beach – Boa Vista
Best for: Families and gentle swimming
- Sheltered bay with calm water
- Great for kids, snorkelling, and paddleboarding
- Lively beach cafés and rental stands
Don’t miss Morabeza Beach Club for cocktails and sunset dinners
Laginha Beach – Mindelo, São Vicente
Best for: Urban beach vibes and locals
- Located near the cultural capital of Mindelo
- Popular with locals for beach football and live music
- Clear, calm waters and soft white sand
Combine beach time with Mindelo’s music and nightlife scene
Praia de Santa Monica – Boa Vista
Best for: Wild beauty and off-the-grid experiences
- Often called “the most beautiful beach in Cape Verde”
- 22 km of untouched shoreline
- No facilities—pure sand, surf, and sea
Access via 4×4 only; guided excursions recommended
Things to Do on Cape Verde Beaches
| Activity | Best Locations |
| Swimming & Sunbathing | Santa Maria, Estoril |
| Windsurfing | Ponta Preta, Kite Beach |
| Snorkelling & Diving | Sal and Boa Vista reefs |
| Turtle Watching | Boa Vista (June–Oct) |
| Beach Yoga & Wellness | Santa Maria, São Vicente |
Cape Verde is a top site for loggerhead turtle nesting—especially on Boa Vista.
Where to Stay for Cape Verde Beaches
| Island | Type of Traveller | Suggested Hotels |
| Sal | First-timers, couples | MELIÁ Dunas, Hilton Cabo Verde |
| Boa Vista | Nature lovers, honeymooners | Iberostar Club Boa Vista, Riu Palace |
| São Vicente | Culture seekers, locals | Kira’s Boutique, Mindel Hotel |
Most beach resorts are eco-conscious, blending modern comforts with local flair.
What to Eat Near the Beach
- Grilled seafood – Lobster, tuna, octopus
- Cachupa – Traditional slow-cooked stew (often served at beach shacks)
- Pastéis de peixe – Fried fish cakes
- Grogue – Local sugarcane rum, perfect at sunset
Try beachfront BBQs and buffets offered by many resorts.
Travel Tips for Visiting Cape Verde Beaches
- Currency: Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE); Euros widely accepted
- Language: Portuguese and Creole (English spoken in resorts)
- Best Time to Visit: Nov–May (dry season, ideal for beach lovers)
- Safety: Generally very safe—just stay aware of strong currents in remote areas
- Transport: Taxis, 4×4 rentals, and local tours are best for beach hopping
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to surf Atlantic waves, sunbathe on golden sands, or swim in turquoise lagoons, every Cape Verde beach offers a unique slice of paradise. With uncrowded coastlines, friendly locals, and a chilled island vibe, Cape Verde is a top alternative to the Caribbean or Canary Islands.
FAQs
Q 1: Which Cape Verde island has the best beaches?
Sal and Boa Vista are known for their stunning beaches. Sal is best for resorts and water sports, while Boa Vista offers wild, unspoiled sands.
Q 2: Can you swim in Cape Verde beaches?
Yes, especially at Santa Maria (Sal) and Estoril (Boa Vista) where waters are calmer. Some beaches, like Ponta Preta, have strong surf—better for pros.
Q 3: Is Cape Verde good for a beach holiday?
Absolutely. With year-round sunshine, warm waters, and a mix of luxury and remote beaches, Cape Verde is perfect for beach lovers.
Q 4: Are Cape Verde beaches safe?
Yes. Most main beaches are safe and clean. Always check local advice on swimming, especially on windy days or in remote areas.
Q 5: When is the best time to visit Cape Verde for beaches?
November to May is ideal for sunny, dry weather and great beach conditions. July–October is warmer but more humid with a chance of rain.
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