Santa Maria is the main tourist hub on Sal Island, Cape Verde, famous for its stunning beaches, consistent sunshine, and strong winds ideal for water sports. Originally a salt production center, it now thrives on tourism, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Santa Maria:
1. Santa Maria Beach
Santa Maria Beach is the centerpiece of Sal Island’s tourism. Stretching along turquoise waters and soft white sand, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and resorts, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. Sunset walks are a must, and it’s also a hotspot for kite surfing and diving.
Visitors love the safe, clean environment and the chance to watch fishermen bring in their daily catch. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, this beach offers the ideal tropical escape with warm waters and breathtaking scenery.
2. The Santa Maria Pier
A cultural and photographic icon, the Santa Maria Pier is bustling with local fishermen, market vendors, and tourists. Watch fishermen clean their catch, enjoy the scent of grilled seafood, or buy fresh fish directly from the boats.
The pier offers scenic views of the coastline and is often a base for boat tours and snorkeling excursions. Locals gather here every day, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of Cape Verdean coastal life. It’s a place where the island’s fishing traditions blend seamlessly with its booming tourism, making it a must-visit spot.
3. Project Biodiversity Turtle Hatchery
Between July and October, Project Biodiversity offers guided tours to observe loggerhead turtles nesting or hatching. Located on the beaches of Santa Maria, this eco-tourism project helps conserve endangered sea turtles while educating visitors.
You can participate in nighttime walks, hatchling releases, and conservation talks. It’s a meaningful way to engage with local wildlife responsibly. Children and adults alike find it unforgettable. Supporting this project contributes to marine conservation and adds depth to your visit by highlighting the ecological richness of Cape Verde beyond the beaches.
4. Pedra de Lume Salt Crater
Located a short drive from Santa Maria, this unique volcanic crater holds natural salt ponds where visitors can float effortlessly due to high salinity. Once a major salt production site, Pedra de Lume now attracts tourists for its surreal beauty and therapeutic waters. Surrounded by reddish hills and old machinery, the area has a moon-like appearance. It's a tranquil spot to unwind while learning about Cape Verde’s salt mining history. Many claim the salt-rich mud and water have healing properties, making it both an educational and rejuvenating experience.
5. Kite Beach
This beach on Sal Island’s east coast is globally known for kitesurfing. With strong and consistent winds, it's ideal for both beginners and professionals. Kite schools offer lessons, and spectators enjoy watching colorful kites dance across the sky. The vibe is energetic and sporty, attracting an international crowd of adventure seekers. Even if you don’t kite, the café on the beach and relaxed atmosphere make it a fun stop. It’s one of the best places to experience Cape Verde’s wind sports culture and enjoy the wilder side of the island.
6. Ponta Preta Beach
Famous for its dramatic dunes and powerful waves, Ponta Preta is a surfing paradise and one of the most scenic beaches near Santa Maria. It's a quieter, less commercialized area, perfect for nature walks, sunset photography, and peaceful reflection. Though swimming is not always safe due to strong currents, the views and serenity are unmatched. Locals often visit for picnics or to fish off the rocks. If you're into windsurfing or want to escape the busier beaches, Ponta Preta offers raw beauty and a sense of Cape Verde’s natural majesty.
7. Viveiro Botanical Garden & Zoo di Terra
A lush green oasis on a desert island, Viveiro is both a botanical garden and a small zoo. It houses native and exotic plants, rescued animals, and offers hands-on experiences for children. Visitors enjoy shaded paths, animal feeding, and relaxing in hammocks amid palm trees. It's a great family destination and a break from the beach. The facility emphasizes sustainability and animal care, making it an educational experience too. With its peaceful atmosphere, it's ideal for travelers wanting to connect with Cape Verde’s flora and fauna in a nurturing environment.
8. Funana Casa da Cultura
Funana Casa da Cultura is a cultural hub, restaurant, and museum celebrating Cape Verdean music, art, and cuisine. Named after a traditional music genre, it’s decorated with local art and crafts. Live music and dance performances are often held in the evenings, offering an immersive cultural experience.
The food is authentic and flavorful, featuring dishes like cachupa and fresh seafood. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy local talent and traditions in an intimate setting. Whether you’re dining or exploring its small exhibits, it’s a celebration of Cape Verdean identity.
9. Buracona – The Blue Eye
Though slightly outside Santa Maria, this natural pool in a lava rock cave is a must-see. During midday, sunlight hits the pool just right, creating a glowing “blue eye” effect. The ocean around Buracona is stunning, and there’s a small cultural center and café nearby. It’s great for adventurous swimmers and photographers. Though swimming is only allowed in safe conditions, the dramatic coastal views and unique geological formations make it a highlight. It’s both a natural wonder and a relaxing excursion from the town center.
10. Santa Maria Town Square
The heart of local life, Santa Maria’s town square, is vibrant and welcoming. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, and colorful colonial buildings, it's a great place to grab a coffee, shop for handmade crafts, or simply people-watch. Street performers and musicians often liven up the area. At night, it transforms into a social hub with live music and dancing.
It’s perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere and meeting locals and fellow travelers alike. The square reflects the warmth, color, and energy of Cape Verdean life.
