Santa Maria Beach
A paradise of golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Santa Maria Beach offers a tranquil escape with vibrant beach bars and breathtaking sun...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas and fewer crowds
Santa Maria Beach
Best Time
Calm seas and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A paradise of golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Santa Maria Beach offers a tranquil escape with vibrant beach bars and breathtaking sunsets.
"This beach takes you away from any thinking, your life is like you are in a chill zone immersed in the beauty."
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable beach day.
🍹 Sip at a Beach Bar
Enjoy local drinks and fresh seafood with ocean views. Vista Mar is a popular spot!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
Santa Maria Beach
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking, transparent turquoise waters that make this beach a true paradise.
Endless Golden Sands
Santa Maria Beach
Stroll along miles of soft, golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and long, relaxing walks.
Vibrant Beach Bars & Restaurants
Along Santa Maria Beach
Enjoy delicious local food and refreshing drinks with stunning ocean views at lively beachside spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and Sea
Island Vibes & Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable beach day.
🍹 Sip at a Beach Bar
Enjoy local drinks and fresh seafood with ocean views. Vista Mar is a popular spot!
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
Walk along the expansive golden sands and discover hidden coves.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunsets here are legendary. Find a good spot and enjoy the show!
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong! Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable beach day.
🍹 Sip at a Beach Bar
Enjoy local drinks and fresh seafood with ocean views. Vista Mar is a popular spot!
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
Walk along the expansive golden sands and discover hidden coves.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunsets here are legendary. Find a good spot and enjoy the show!
🤿 Try Water Sports
Many operators offer activities like snorkeling and diving in the clear waters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Santa Maria Beach for its stunning natural beauty, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sands. The relaxed atmosphere, coupled with vibrant beach bars and restaurants, makes it a highly recommended destination for relaxation and enjoyment. Some minor drawbacks include limited natural shade and the potential for crowded areas during peak times.
"Stunning beach, clear water and beautiful views."
Blue Sky
"My vacation house on Via Spiaggia is here. My Husband’s family has been living here for over 200 years. We are 20 feet from the water. We love all the restaurants and the neighborhood is wonderful."
Lisa Romano
"Amazing this beach take you away from any thinking boder your life is like you are in a chill zone immerse in the beauty water turquoise clear and the sand massage your feet. Calabria is been a marvellous surprise I'm italian never been here before but I say you must visit this region. And the people very friendly and helpful."
antonella masi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria Beach is located on Sal Island in Cape Verde. The nearest airport is Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID). From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange a transfer to your accommodation near the beach. 
While Sal Island is the main hub, inter-island ferries and flights are available, though direct access to Santa Maria Beach from other islands might require a connection through Sal.
Taxis are readily available for getting around Sal Island. Renting a car or quad bike is also an option for more flexibility in exploring areas like Terra Boa or Shark Bay.
Yes, there are direct flights to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) from various European cities, including recent additions from Amsterdam.
Santa Maria Beach in Cape Verde is a different location from beaches near Santa Marta, Colombia. Travel between these would involve international flights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Santa Maria Beach is a public beach, so there are no entry tickets required to access the sand and sea.
Some areas along the beach may offer chair and umbrella rentals, typically for a fee. It's advisable to check prices with the vendors directly.
Beach clubs and restaurants like Vista Mar are generally open daily from breakfast through dinner, with some offering live music in the evenings.
Yes, attractions like the Pedra de Lume salt pans usually have a small entrance fee for visitors.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Santa Maria Beach itself, but always be mindful of local customs and environmental guidelines.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can relax on the golden sands, swim in the clear waters, enjoy water sports like snorkeling, and dine at beachfront restaurants.
Yes, the calm waters and soft sand make it a great spot for families. Resorts like Melia Dunas Beach Resort are noted as being very family-friendly.
The beach is known for its soft, golden sand, which many visitors find incredibly pleasant underfoot.
Natural shade is limited, but you can rent umbrellas or find spots under palm trees near some beach bars.
The waters are generally calm and clear, making swimming safe. However, always be aware of your surroundings and any local advisories.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Vista Mar Beach bar & Restaurant is highly recommended for its food, sunset views, and live music. Many resorts also offer excellent dining options.
Don't miss trying authentic Cape Verdean dishes like Cachupa (a hearty stew) and fresh seafood, especially lobster.
While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants are accommodating and can offer vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly.
Absolutely! Numerous beach bars and casual eateries line Santa Maria Beach, offering a relaxed dining experience.
Prices can vary, but expect mid-range pricing for most beachside restaurants, with higher-end options available at resorts.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of beach offers stunning backdrops. Focus on the clear water, golden sand, and vibrant sunsets for iconic shots.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Midday offers bright, clear shots of the water.
Consider visiting Terra Boa for desert landscapes or Shark Bay for wildlife photography, both accessible from Santa Maria.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean. Waterproof gear is useful if you plan on getting close to the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or your accommodation regarding any restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Resorts like Melia Dunas Beach Resort are specifically recommended for their family-friendly amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining stay for everyone.Many beach bars and restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Consider booking accommodations with family suites or apartments for extra space and convenience. The gentle nature of the beach makes it easy for parents to supervise children while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
✈️ Day-Trippers
Pack light with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. You can rent chairs and umbrellas on-site, and there are plenty of beach bars for a quick lunch or refreshing drink. The key is to embrace the relaxed vibe and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery for the duration of your visit.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 The calm, turquoise waters provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and quality time together.Consider booking a stay at a resort known for its ambiance, or find a charming vacation rental for a more private experience. Many beach bars offer live music during sunset, adding to the romantic atmosphere. The overall tranquil and beautiful environment makes it an ideal escape for couples seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Sal Island's Coastal Gems
+1 This expansive beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and simply soaking in the laid-back island atmosphere. The gentle waves and clear visibility make it ideal for swimming and a variety of water sports.Beyond the main stretch of Santa Maria Beach, Sal Island offers other notable coastal spots. Algodoeiro Beach is known for its more rugged beauty and is a great spot for snorkeling. For a unique experience, a visit to Terra Boa offers a desert-like landscape contrasting with the ocean, while Shark Bay provides an opportunity for responsible shark spotting.
These diverse locations showcase the varied natural beauty of the island.When planning your visit, consider the best time to visit for optimal weather and fewer crowds. While Santa Maria Beach is beautiful year-round, visiting during the shoulder seasons might offer a more tranquil experience. Many visitors rave about the vibrant beach bars and restaurants that line Santa Maria Beach, offering delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks with spectacular ocean views, especially during sunset.
Accommodation Options Near Santa Maria Beach
Visitors looking for a more intimate or unique stay might consider options like Airbnb or vacation rentals, such as those found in the Via Spiaggia area, which offer proximity to the water and a neighborhood feel [^Review]. The Cape Santa Maria Resort and Cape Santa Maria Hotel are also noted, indicating a presence of established hotels catering to tourists seeking the full resort experience [^SEO keyword].
When booking, consider what kind of experience you're after. Whether it's a lively resort atmosphere, a quiet suite, or a cozy vacation home, there are plenty of choices to ensure your stay near Santa Maria Beach is comfortable and memorable. Checking reviews for specific resorts like Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort can also provide insights into the quality of service and amenities offered [^SEO keyword].
Culinary Delights by the Sea
Vista Mar - Beach bar & Restaurant is a standout, praised for its daily offerings from breakfast to dinner, live sunset music, and specialties like BBQ and lobster. This spot embodies the vibrant, relaxed atmosphere that many visitors seek.Beyond specific establishments, the general culinary experience emphasizes fresh seafood. Dishes like Cachupa, a traditional hearty stew, and locally caught fish are must-tries for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the island.
The proximity to the ocean ensures that seafood is always fresh and expertly prepared. Many restaurants also offer a variety of international dishes, catering to a diverse clientele.For those seeking a more casual experience, numerous smaller eateries and cafes dot the beachfront, providing a perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing drink or a light meal while watching the waves. The emphasis is on fresh flavors and a relaxed dining ambiance, making every meal a delightful part of the Santa Maria Beach experience.
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