Complete Guide to Sal Island, Cape Verde: What to Do, When to Go and Practical Tips

If you're planning your next summer holiday or a winter sun getaway, Sal Island, in Cape Verde, is one of the most popular choices for Portuguese travelers. With direct flights from Lisbon and Porto (around 4 hours), endless white sand beaches, and the island's famous motto "No Stress", this Atlantic destination offers the perfect mix of rest and adventure.

In this complete guide, we explain everything you need to know before traveling: what to visit, how the climate works, where to stay, and answers to the most common questions about documents and money.

1. What to Do on Sal Island: Unmissable Attractions

Despite being a small island — around 30 km long — Sal has unique points of interest worth exploring beyond the resorts.

1.1. Relax at Santa Maria Beach and the Pier

Santa Maria Beach is the island's postcard image. Its warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming. Every day, around noon, it's worth walking to the Santa Maria Pier, where local fishermen arrive with fresh fish (notably wahoo and tuna), creating a vibrant scene of Cape Verdean culture.

1.2. Float at the Pedra de Lume Salt Pans

Located in the crater of an extinct volcano, the Pedra de Lume Salt Pans offer a unique experience. Thanks to the high salt concentration (26 times that of seawater), you can float effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea. Entry is inexpensive and there are showers on site.

1.3. Admire the "Blue Eye" at Buracona

On the island's northwest coast is Buracona, a natural pool formed by volcanic rock. When sunlight hits it at a certain angle (usually 11am to 1pm), an underground cave lights up in a brilliant blue effect known as the "Blue Eye".

1.4. Walk with Sharks at Shark Bay

On the east coast, Shark Bay lets you watch lemon sharks in their natural habitat. With water knee to waist deep, you can see these harmless animals swimming just a few meters away. Renting water shoes is recommended because of the rocks.

1.5. Water Sports at Kite Beach

For thrill-seekers, Kite Beach is a world center for kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to steady winds between November and April.

2. What's the Best Time to Travel to Sal Island?

Sal Island is a sun-and-beach destination all year round, with average temperatures between 25°C and 29°C.

• November to April (Windy Season): The ideal time for water sports. Nights can be slightly cooler, so pack a light jacket.
• May to October (Warmer Season): The sea reaches its warmest temperatures (around 27°C). Rain is rare and sporadic (mostly August and September).

3. Where to Stay: All-Inclusive Hotels and Resorts

The Santa Maria area is the best place to stay, with the widest choice of hotels, restaurants, and the island's most beautiful beach.

For those seeking convenience, All-Inclusive resorts are the best value:

• Hotel Oásis Atlântico Belorizonte (4★): Right on Santa Maria beach, known for its comfortable wooden bungalows.
• RIU Complex (Funana and Cabo Verde - 5★): Large facilities, several pools, daily entertainment, and 24-hour All Inclusive service.

4. Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip

Documents and Visa (EASE Fee)

• Passport: Required, valid for at least 6 months from the return date.
• Visa: EU citizens don't need a visa for short stays, but online pre-registration on the EASE platform is mandatory, plus payment of the TSA (Airport Security Fee). Note: this is usually handled directly when booking through a travel agency.

Currency and Money

The official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), but the euro is accepted almost everywhere on Sal. Cards don't always work in small shops, so bring cash in euros.

Tourist Accommodation Tax

On arrival at the hotel, a government tourist tax of €2.50 per person/night applies (over 16, up to 10 nights).

Ready to Book Your Sal Island Holiday?

Sal Island has everything for a worry-free holiday: short direct flights, all-inclusive beach resorts, and a warm welcome from the Cape Verdean people.

👉 Want to travel without worrying about the logistics?
Check out our exclusive package Magic of Sal: 7-Day All-Inclusive Cape Verde Itinerary, with direct flights, transfers, a beachfront hotel, and full assistance.

Book with confidence
Vamos Fugir is a travel agency licensed by Turismo de Portugal (RNAVT no. 4155). Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.