Cape Verde, a group of stunning islands off the coast of West Africa, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by people who love adventure and beaches. Among these islands, Sal Island stands out with its unique charm and natural beauty.

While people from Cape Verde see Sal as a touristy place, for travelers Sal can be a quiet, undiscovered island that brings you way more peace than all the other popular islands all over the world.

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In this blog you will find more information about the top 5 things to do when visiting Sal.

1. Sal Island Experience

Whether you are traveling alone, with your friends or family, it is highly recommended to book an adventure tour around the island. On this tour you will visit places like:

Espargos city, is the capital and largest city of Sal
Kite Beach, a windsurfing and kitesurfing paradise
Santa Maria, boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Cape Verde
Palmeira fisherman village, is known for its maritime atmosphere, traditional architecture, and the livelihood of its fishing community
Natural bay of Murdeira, is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes. The bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Relax and float in the Salinas, the second saltiest water in the world after the Dead Sea.

2. Visit the best beaches in Sal

Sal Island has some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Whether you are a sunbather or love doing water sports, there are plenty beaches to choose from.

Santa Maria

Santa Maria Beach has crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand and is a paradise for relaxation and beach activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Ponta Preta

Ponta Preta is similar to Santa Maria with turquoise water and soft sand; however, it has a more rugged and natural landscape.

Kite Beach

Not a beach for relaxation but instead one for adrenaline-pumping water sports, Kite Beach is the best location on the island for windsurfing, kitesurfing and more.

If you want to make the beach hopping more fun, you can also book an adventure tour on an electric bike to go around the beaches of Sal.

3. Shark Bay Experience

Shark Bay is also known as Baia das Gatas. You can find Shark Bay on the North of Sal Island. It’s renowned for its turquoise blue waters, white sand beaches, and an abundance of marine life, including several species of sharks. Research has shown that the presence of sharks in Shark Bay is due to the healthy population of their prey, such as slow-moving fish, rays, and smaller sharks.

The adventure at Shark Bay starts with a briefing on the safety measures before entering the water. The tour includes a boat ride with experienced guides, who will take you to the best snorkeling spots close to the reef edge. They will also provide you with goggles and flippers.

Once you’re in the water, the guides will help you spot the sharks and other marine life. The guides will also provide insights into their behavior and lifestyle.

If you’re planning a Shark Bay snorkeling adventure, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your experience:

Book your tour in advance to ensure availability.
Wear reef-friendly sunscreen to protect yourself and the marine life.
Stay calm while in the water and let the sharks approach you.
Respect the marine life and its environment by not touching anything, including the coral reef.

4. Catamaran Sailing Tour

A catamaran sailing excursion takes you away from the hustle and bustle of land into the open sea. The tour usually lasts a day and has different spots to stop where you can hop off the boat and swim or relax on the beach.

Tour packages come with refreshments, snacks, and a delicious BBQ lunch onboard, prepared by the friendly crew. The tour guides are experienced and have in-depth knowledge of the area and the marine ecosystem. Because of this they can provide you with insights and interesting facts about the places you visit.

Sal Island is home to many stunning beaches and bays. Taking a catamaran tour gives you the chance to experience the best of them.

Highlights of the tour

White Sands Beach

White Sands Beach is one of the most popular spots on Sal Island. The beach offers a perfect place to enjoy an afternoon swim or sunbathe. While on the catamaran tour, you can stop at White Sands Beach and soak up the sun and enjoy delicious drinks and BBQ.

Murdeira Bay

Murdeira Bay, located on the southwest coast of Sal Island, is another beautiful and tranquil location. Renowned for its underwater caves and rock formations, the bay is a haven for marine life, creating an ideal location for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Pedra Lume Salt Flats

Catamaran tours also take you to explore the unique landscapes of Sal Island. The tours include a visit to the Pedra Lume Salt Flats, an area encompassing a volcanic caldera filled with saltwater. The water in the pools is very dense, allowing swimmers to float effortlessly. The stunning scenery of the surrounding hills and the contrast of the saltwater makes it an excellent location for scenic photographs.

Here are some suggestions to ensure you have a fantastic catamaran sailing tour:

Wear comfortable clothing and swimwear.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Bring a waterproof camera or phone to capture all the memories.
Follow the safety instructions and guidelines issued by the tour crew.

5. Sea Turtle experience

Sal Island is a vital nesting ground for three species of sea turtles: the Loggerhead, the Green turtle, and the Hawksbill. These gentle creatures migrate thousands of kilometers to the shores of Sal Island to lay their eggs and give birth to the next generation of sea turtles. The nesting season typically occurs from June to October, while the hatching season takes place from September to November.

Tour

Observe the remarkable process of sea turtles nesting by joining a guided tour. Led by experienced guides, you will have the opportunity to witness the turtles as they emerge from the ocean to lay their eggs. The guides will share insightful information about the biology, behavior, and conservation efforts surrounding these magnificent creatures, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for sea turtles.

It is crucial to bear in mind the significance of maintaining a respectful distance, minimizing noise, and avoiding the use of artificial lights during the nesting process, as these factors can disorient and disturb the turtles.

Fortunately, local organizations, such as Project Biodiversity and the Maio Biodiversity Foundation, play an important role in monitoring and safeguarding nesting sites. Moreover, they actively raise awareness about conservation and implement education programs for both the local community and visitors.

Tips

Choose a tour operator that prioritizes the well-being of the turtles and follows ethical guidelines.
Follow the instructions provided by the guides to minimize disturbances and maintain a safe distance.
Avoid using flash photography or any form of artificial lights during the nesting or hatching process.
Encourage local conservation initiatives by either making a donation or actively participating in volunteer programs.

So, wrapping up my thoughts on Sal, Cape Verde. Sal is like finding a chill spot where the sun’s always shining and the vibes are always good. Everyone in Sal just got this laid-back friendliness that makes you feel like you’ve found a home away from home.

If you’re up for a mix of beach vibes, water adventures, and just good times, Sal is your spot. No fancy words needed—just pack your sunscreen and get ready for a piece of Cape Verde that sticks with you.

Cape Verde: 5 best things to do in Sal