Sal is a flat volcanic island with a warm, tropical dry climate. The island has four settlements, and tourist attractions are spread across Sal.

Coastal Landscapes and Salt Pans

The underwater tunnel at Buracona leads inland. At a large opening, sunlight creates special lighting effects. Regona also reveals another side of the coastal landscape: its extensive caves are directly connected to the open sea. Among the creatures that live there are large fish and crustaceans, which can be seen inside.

The salt pans add their own distinctive features. Salinas de Santa Maria lies north of the centre of Santa Maria and is entirely surrounded by the Costa da Fragata nature reserve. At Salinas de Pedra de Lume, the landscape is linked to the island’s history: salt production began in the late 18th and early 19th centuries and contributed to Sal’s settlement and development. Since 2003, the salt pans have been designated a protected national landscape; in 2014, they were recognised as a natural, historical and cultural heritage site of Cabo Verde.

Sal also has beaches with white sand, warm, clear water and coral reefs. Water conditions can vary by location and season.

Water Sports, Trails and Seasonal Nature

Water sports available on Sal include surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, diving, snorkelling, fishing and swimming. The dunes of Ponta Preta are suitable for walks and water sports such as surfing. The World Kite Surfing Circuit takes place at Kite Beach from November to March; check the dates for your year of travel.

A hiking route runs from Pontão de Santa Maria to Praia de Ponta Preta in Santa Maria. Rorqual whales are seasonally spotted in the waters of Murdeira Bay and Rabo de Junco between March and May. The Kite Surfing Circuit and whale-watching seasons overlap in March; check the specific dates for the year in question. Weather and sea conditions may affect activities.

Festivals and Cultural Events

A festival on Santa Maria beach is the highlight of the festivities in the municipality of Sal. It is celebrated every year on 15 September and lasts two days. The stage features artists from Cabo Verde, the diaspora and abroad. When planning your trip, it is worth checking the programme for the year in question.

Religious festivals on Sal include Santa Cruz, Santo António, Santa Ana and Nossa Senhora da Piedade; dates and local traditions may vary. The Festival da Literatura-Mundo do Sal aims to bring authors, researchers, translators and literature advocates into dialogue.

Cuisine and Market in Santa Maria

Fish and seafood are central to Sal’s cuisine. Traditionally, they are grilled or stewed and prepared with spices and vegetables. Cachupa is also a regularly eaten dish. This stew is made with corn, beans, vegetables and various kinds of meat, and can be served as one of the three main meals.

In Santa Maria, the local market offers fresh produce and handicrafts. Along with the food and cultural events, it complements the island’s nature and water sports with a glimpse of everyday life.

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