Santa Maria - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to Santa Maria

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Maria, a pretty good destination in Cabo Verde (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Maria and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Maria, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cabo Verde, here's everything to know about Santa Maria for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a town located in the southern part of the island of Sal in Cape Verde. It is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate all year round. The town has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and offers a range of activities such as water sports, fishing, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. It is also home to a vibrant music scene, with live music events and festivals throughout the year. The town has a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, making it an attractive destination for all types of travelers.

What to visit in Santa Maria

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santa Maria, Cabo Verde: 1. Santa Maria Beach: This stunning beach is one of the main attractions in Santa Maria. With its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beach, it's the perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
2. Kite Beach: The strong and consistent winds make this beach ideal for kiteboarding and windsurfing. It's also a great spot to watch these adrenaline-filled sports.
3. Pedra Lume Salt Crater: This unique natural phenomenon is a saltwater crater located on the island of Sal. Visitors can float in the saltwater and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.
4. Shark Bay: This is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, as it's home to a variety of marine life including sharks, turtles, and colorful fish.
5. Buracona: A natural swimming pool formed by volcanic activity, Buracona is a must-visit attraction in Santa Maria. The rock formations surrounding the pool create mesmerizing reflections.
6. Espargos: This is the largest city on the island and is an ideal place for shopping, dining, and experiencing local culture. There are many shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore here.
7. Blue Eye: As the name suggests, this is a natural swimming pool with stunning blue water. It's a hidden gem located between the dunes and rocky cliffs and is perfect for a refreshing swim.
8. Palmeira: This small fishing village is located on the west coast of the island and is known for its seafood restaurants and picturesque harbor. It's a great place to relax and watch the boats come and go.
Overall, Santa Maria is a charming destination with lots to offer visitors. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, there's something for everyone.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cabo Verde, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santa Maria.

When to go on holiday to Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria in Cabo Verde is from November to May. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures hovering around 25-30°C (77-86°F). This makes it perfect for enjoying the white sandy beaches and taking part in various water sports activities. However, it's important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so the island can be quite crowded.
If you're looking for a quieter time, you may consider visiting Santa Maria during the off-peak season from June to October. Although the weather can still be warm and sunny, there is a likelihood of rainfall and occasional tropical storms during these months. Nonetheless, during this season, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Maria

Santa Maria is located on the southern coast of the island of Sal in Cabo Verde. You can reach Sal Island by air as it has an international airport known as Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID). From there, you can take a taxi, bus or shuttle service to Santa Maria. The distance between the airport and Santa Maria is approximately 17 kilometers and it takes about 20-25 minutes by car. Several airlines such as TAP Portugal, Cabo Verde Airlines, TUI, and Ryanair operate flights to Sal Island from various locations including Europe, North America, and Africa. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest information and schedule with the airlines as they may change without notice due to COVID-19 or other reasons.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Maria, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Maria

Santa Maria in Cabo Verde is known for its delicious and flavorful Creole cuisine that has been influenced by African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cultures. Here are some typical foods of Santa Maria: 1. Cachupa: It is the national dish of Cabo Verde and is a stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat. It can be made in various ways, adding different types of meat and spices.
2. Pastel: It is a fried, savory pastry filled with tuna, vegetables, or cheese. It is also commonly called "empanada" or "pastel de atum." 3. Espetada: This is a skewered meat dish made with pork, beef or chicken. The meat is marinated in garlic, salt, and spices and then grilled.
4. Caldo de Peixe: It is a fish soup made with fresh fish, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. It is usually served with rice.
5. Catchupa Rica: It is a richer version of the cachupa, made with more meats such as beef, chicken, or goat, along with vegetables and spices.
6. Bolo Levedo: This is a sweet bread that is similar to a brioche. It is made with yeast, sugar, eggs, and flour and is often served for breakfast or as a dessert.
7. Pasteis de Tentugal: These are sweet pastries that originated in Portugal. They are made with egg yolks, sugar, and puff pastry and are a popular dessert in Santa Maria.
8. Grogue: It is a local spirit made from sugar cane. It is similar to a rum but has a unique taste and is often drunk as an after-dinner digestif.
Enjoy your trip to Santa Maria and be sure to taste the delicious Creole cuisine that the island has to offer!
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is Santa Maria an expensive destination for tourists?

Santa Maria, located in the island of Sal in Cabo Verde, can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to some other destinations in the region. Prices for accommodation, food and activities can be higher than in some other nearby countries, but they can vary depending on the season you choose to visit. During peak season or holidays, prices can be higher than during off-peak periods. However, there are options for different budgets and there are also some affordable accommodations, restaurants and activities available. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices beforehand to make the best decision for your travel budget.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Maria

The best areas to find accommodations for visiting Santa Maria in Cabo Verde would be the beachfront areas, namely Praia Antonio Sousa, Ponta Preta, and Dunas de Sal, as they offer easy access to the beach and a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Other popular areas for accommodations include central Santa Maria and the locality of Palmeira.
You can check hotel prices at Santa Maria here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Maria a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santa Maria in Cabo Verde is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists. Like in any other city or tourist destination, travelers should take sensible precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, particularly at night or in isolated areas. Petty theft can be an issue in some areas, but it is not a serious problem. Overall, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors to Santa Maria can enjoy a wonderful holiday experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cabo Verde here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Maria.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Maria the most?

Santa Maria is a beautiful destination that caters to a variety of travelers. It has something for everyone. Here are some examples: - Couples looking for a romantic getaway will love the beautiful beaches and scenic views that Santa Maria has to offer. The town has many charming places to stay and restaurants with delicious menus.
- Younger people who enjoy nightlife will have a lot of fun in Santa Maria too. There are a few bars and clubs in the area that offer lively entertainment, especially during peak season.
- Families will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere of Santa Maria, which has many family-friendly activities, such as watersports, boat tours or simply building sandcastles on the beach.
Overall, Santa Maria is a great destination for anyone looking for a tropical vacation, with a wide range of activities that you can do during the day and at night.

How to get around Santa Maria

In Santa Maria, you can move around by foot, bicycle, taxi, or share taxi. Buses and minibusses are also available but they may not follow a regular schedule. If you are planning to explore other areas of the island, you can rent a car or motorcycle, or use a tour or transportation service. Water taxis are also available for inter-island travel.

What to see around Santa Maria

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Santa Maria in Cabo Verde: 1. Island of Sal: Take a boat ride and explore the Island of Sals beautiful beaches, salt mines, and scenic views.
2. Pedra Lume Salt Crater: Take a dip in the thermal waters of the crater, which is similar to a natural spa.
3. Buracona: Swim in the blue eye, a natural pool of crystal clear water surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
4. Espargos: Visit the local town of Espargos and explore the culture and daily life of the Cabo Verdean people.
5. Shark Bay: Have a guided tour to witness the feeding of lemon sharks in their underwater habitat.
6. Blue Hole: Take a boat ride to this breathtaking natural sea water hole, surrounded by cliffs and crystalline waters.
7. Palmeira: This is a charming fishing village with colorful houses and a picturesque marina. These are just a few options, and there are many more places to explore in Cabo Verde!
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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