Santa María Beach
Cabo Verde
Kilometers of Golden Sand in the Heart of the Atlantic
Santa Maria is the soul of Sal Island, a former fishing village transformed into the most vibrant tourist destination in Cape Verde without losing its authenticity. Its main beach stretches for kilometers to the east and west of the old wooden pier, an endless strip of fine golden sand bathed by waters of a seemingly unreal turquoise.
The Santa Maria pier remains the heart of the village. Every morning, fishermen return with their colorful boats loaded with tuna, wahoo, and grouper, which they sell directly on the beach. It's a spectacle of local life that contrasts with the tranquility of the more distant stretches of the beach, where you can walk for kilometers without encountering anyone.
More Than a Beach: A Way of Life
The Santa Maria promenade, Rua dos Pescadores, is a succession of terrace restaurants, live music bars, and craft shops that come alive especially at dusk. The mix of European visitors, expatriates, and local Cape Verdeans creates a cosmopolitan and relaxed atmosphere that defines the spirit of morabeza — Cape Verdean hospitality.
The stretch of beach east of the pier (Praia de António Sousa) is quieter and has the best conditions for swimming. For sunsets, head to the western end of the beach, where the sun sinks into the Atlantic painting the sky orange and purple.
The waters of Santa Maria are so clear that from the pier you can see fish swimming among the rocks. The sea temperature ranges between 22 and 26 degrees throughout the year, making swimming a constant pleasure. For those seeking more than just sunbathing, kitesurfing and windsurfing schools operate a few meters from the beach, and diving centers organize daily outings.
Santa Maria has that rare balance between a fishing village and a beach destination: enough to feel cared for, but never so much as to lose its charm.
LIVVO Tip: Perfect for combining a swim with activities like kitesurfing or paddleboarding.
More to see in Cabo Verde
Santa María
The main hub of the island, where beaches, restaurants and local life come together. The seafront promenade, the pier and daily activity reflect the pace of the destination.
Pedra de Lume Salt Flats
Former salt flats located inside the crater of an extinct volcano. The high salt content of the water allows visitors to float effortlessly.
Buracona
A natural pool in volcanic rock where sunlight creates an intense blue glow in the water.
Shark Bay
A coastal area where lemon sharks can be seen in shallow waters.