🇨🇻 Cape VerdeCV

Visit Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand located in Cape Verde, attracting visitors with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant atmosphere.

Travel Guide to Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria Beach, situated on the southern coast of Sal Island in Cape Verde, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and lively ambiance. This picturesque beach features soft, golden sands that gently slope into the turquoise Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, creating a vibrant atmosphere that draws both locals and tourists alike.

Historically, Santa Maria has been a fishing village, and remnants of this heritage can still be seen in the colorful boats lining the shore. Visitors can expect a laid-back vibe during the day, with opportunities for snorkeling, windsurfing, and kitesurfing in the warm waters. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively social hub, with beach bars offering music and entertainment, perfect for enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunset.

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Travel Guide to Santa Maria Beach

For those planning a visit, Santa Maria Beach is easily accessible from the nearest airport, Amílcar Cabral International Airport (RAI), which is just a short drive away. The beach is well-equipped with facilities, including sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, as well as public restrooms. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand or engage in thrilling water activities, Santa Maria Beach offers something for everyone.

Why Visit?

Santa Maria Beach is a must-visit for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse range of activities, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure seekers.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Santa Maria Beach is during the dry season from November to June, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities.

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Plan your trip to Santa Maria Beach

Flights, accommodation and ways to get around — plan the details that matter to you.

Find flights to Santa Maria Beach

Nearest recommended airport search point: RAI.

See recent flight offersTo Praia €91From Praia €103

Recent flight offers

Compare available fares and routes for Santa Maria Beach.

Flights to Praia Arrivals · RAI

Cheap Flights to Praia for Santa Maria Beach (RAI)

Compare recent fares to Praia, the suggested airport search point for visiting Santa Maria Beach. Choose a listed deal or use the search box above to check prices from your airport.

Flights from Santa Maria Beach Departures · RAI

Stay & getting around

Choose a neighbourhood, then decide how you will get from the airport and around the city.

Where to stay Neighbourhoods and accommodation

Where to Stay in Santa Maria Beach

For accommodation, Santa Maria offers a variety of options ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the beach.

Getting around Airport transfers and local transport

Getting Around Santa Maria Beach

Getting to Santa Maria Beach is convenient, with taxis and rental cars available from Amílcar Cabral International Airport. Once in Santa Maria, the area is easily navigable on foot, and local taxis can help you reach nearby attractions.

Travel essentials

Popular Activities in Santa Maria Beach

Good to know about Santa Maria Beach

Country factsCapital, language and useful details

Quick Facts

Country

CapitalPraia
LanguagesPortuguese
Population518,467
Area4,033 km²

Location

ContinentAfrica
Time ZoneUTC−01:00
Driving SideRight
Calling Code+238

Practical Information

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Climate

Cape Verde has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season lasts from November to June, while the wet season occurs from July to October, bringing occasional rain and humidity.

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Money

The local currency is CVE - Cabo Verde Escudo. Cards are accepted in many places, but carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases, local transport, and rural areas.

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Internet & SIM

Mobile coverage is generally good across the islands, and SIM cards are available for purchase at the airport and local shops. Wi-Fi is accessible in many hotels and cafes, but may be limited in rural areas.

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Electricity

Plug type: Type C, Type D, Type G
Voltage: 220 / 230 V
Frequency: 50 Hz
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Safety

Cape Verde is generally suitable for travelers, but conditions can vary by region. Check local guidance, keep valuables secure, and use normal travel precautions.
U.S. Travel Advisory
Level 1Exercise Normal Precautions Exercise normal precautionin Cabo Verde due to crime
U.S. Department of State · Updated Thu, 18 Dec 2025
Official advisory →
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Emergency

112 / 999

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