This is the island of relaxation and the beach. Sal is renowned for its magnificent white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and sunshine all year round. It is one of the most popular tourist islands in Cape Verde. Lovers of sun, water sports and relaxation will find their happiness here. In Sal, nature seems to have taken over a real haven of peace where visitors can recharge their batteries and experience the gentle Cape Verdean way of life.

• Area: A small, easy to explore island with an area of ​​approximately 216 km².

• Population: Nearly 40 inhabitants, concentrated in the towns of Santa Maria and Espargos.

• Maximum altitude: Its highest point, Monte Grande, is only 406 metres high.

• Main access: It is accessible by boat from São Nicolau and Boa Vista. In addition, with its Amílcar Cabral International Airport, it has connections with abroad and the following islands: Boa Vista, Santiago, São Vicente and São Nicolau.

Beaches, sun and water sports: Sal is above all an island for lovers of the sea and the sun. It is your favorite place for kitesurfing, scuba diving and of course, relaxation in general.

• Beaches as far as the eye can see: The island's main beach, Santa Maria, is popular with tourists and locals alike. The sand is soft white, the water is a bright blue, and the atmosphere is always friendly.

• Water sports for all tastes: Kite Beach offers perfect winds for water sports enthusiasts and is known worldwide as a great place for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

• Natural and historical discoveries: Sal has mainly beaches, but also interesting places to visit, such as the Pedra de Lume salt flats, a volcanic crater transformed into a salt lake where you can float like in the Dead Sea.

Santa Maria Beach: This white sand beach is one of the most beautiful spots on Sal, located at its southern end. It stretches for several kilometers, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing by the sea.

Kite Beach: It is internationally renowned as a must-visit spot for kitesurfers and windsurfers. You can admire dozens of colorful kites in the sky, a sign that this sport is gaining popularity on the island.

The Pedra de Lume salt flats: The Pedra de Lume salt flats are located in the crater of an ancient volcano. The highly saline waters will allow you to float easily, just like in the Dead Sea.

Buracona and the Blue Eye: The natural pool of Buracona is located on the northwest coast of the island. Locals call it "the blue eye" (literally, this is how the pool turns an intense blue when illuminated by the sun). It's a fascinating phenomenon to observe, especially around midday when the sun shines directly on the water.

To learn more, explore our article on " What to do in Sal? ".

While the island is best known for its beaches and party atmosphere, it also has a local culture and well-established traditions. The city of Santa Maria is more of a nightlife and entertainment city, with restaurants and bars, and craft markets that allow you to discover Cape Verdean products and specialties.

Santa Maria Festival: This is an annual festival that takes place during the month of September, attracting both locals and visitors for concerts, dances and exhibitions of local artisans.

Local cuisine: It's a particular paradise for seafood lovers. Fresh fish, lobster, and typical Cape Verdean dishes can be found in the small restaurants of Santa Maria.

Sal is well equipped to accommodate visitors, with a wide variety of accommodation ranging from luxury hotels to friendly guesthouses.

Meliá Llana Beach Resort & Spa: A quiet and tranquil luxury beachfront hotel in Santa Maria, designed for travelers seeking comfort.

Odjo d'Agua Hotel: A beautiful hotel in Santa Maria, with a magnificent view of the ocean and the beach.

Hotel Morabeza: An iconic place in Santa Maria, appreciated for its pleasant atmosphere, friendliness and ideal location close to shops and restaurants.

As a small island, Sal is easy to explore. Taxis are ubiquitous and the best option for getting between major attractions. Car rentals are also available in the towns of Santa Maria and Espargos, allowing you to explore places like Buracona and Pedra de Lume at your own pace.

Sal has a warm and dry climate and temperatures range between 24° and 30°C throughout the year. The period between November and June is ideal for visiting, as it is sunny and the wind is conducive to water sports.

Bring sun protection: Given the strong sunshine, it is important to protect yourself with sunscreen every time you go out.

Explore the beaches early in the morning or late in the day: The beaches are superb and therefore very popular, so if you prefer peace and quiet, go there early in the morning or late in the day.

Don't miss the Santa Maria craft markets: These markets are the perfect place to pick up handmade souvenirs, discover local crafts and taste typical products.

Sal Island is synonymous with relaxation and escape. Whether you are interested in its heavenly beaches, its beautiful waters or its unique experiences like the salt baths at Pedra de Lume, Sal promises you an unforgettable stay under the sign of sun and sea.