Salt, surf and sunshine: Why Sal Island needs to be your next holiday

Despite the island’s volcanic origin, Sal is relatively flat with the highest point measuring a meagre 405.3 metres in altitude. It also is one of the smallest islands in the archipelago with a radius of 216 square kilometres. Despite its small size, there are so many things to do in Sal during your holidays and the best time to enjoy them is between November and June. This is when the weather is not too hot, nor too cold and the conditions are perfect for watersports. However long your holidays in Sal, Cape Verde may be, take time to explore. Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas for must-see landmarks in Sal Island.

Nestled away on the southern tip of the island, Santa Maria is a lively town with wide, windswept beaches backed by chic resorts. Here pastel coloured buildings line the streets and the buzzing restaurants and cafés offer an inviting vantage point for watching the vibrant goings on. Pick up some souvenirs from the town’s independent shops on 1 de Junho Street before heading to Weigh House, a small museum on the harbour that recalls the island’s trading history. Don’t miss a walk along the pier to see the fishermen bringing in the fresh catch of the day. It is a must-see when visiting Sal.

One of the must-visit places on Sal Island is the salt pans of Pedra de Lume, founded in the early 1800s by Manuel Antonio Martins. Located in an extinct volcanic crater, the saline water’s white and pink colouring contrasts with the barren desert landscapes surrounding it. There are reminders of this area’s industrious past with a cable car, mechanical mills and a power plant still present amidst the mines. 

Yet, today the mine is inactive, instead becoming a central focus of the island’s tourism industry. Entrance is paid but this gives you access to the salt lakes and the spa facilities. Swimming here is like swimming in the Dead Sea and you can float effortlessly due to the high salt concentration.

The Port of Palmeira, located on the western coast of Sal Island, is the island’s main maritime gateway and a hub for both commercial and recreational activities. It is a vital port for trade in Cape Verde with fresh seafood, construction materials and fuel supplies passing through here daily. Despite its industrial significance, Palmeira maintains a charming and authentic atmosphere, with colourful fishing boats dotting the harbour and local fishermen bringing in their daily catch. The port area is also a starting point for exciting marine excursions, such as scuba diving and deep-sea fishing, thanks to the nearby coral reefs and underwater caves. From here many people choose to take a boat to visit Boa Vista. Yet, this area is a must-visit in Sal Island for its traditional Cape Verdean restaurants, bars, and a laid-back coastal vibe that perfectly captures the essence of island life.

You cannot visit Sal Island, Cabo Verde and not try its traditional dishes. Food on this island is a blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences with flavourful dishes that reflect the island’s coastal location. Tuna, lobster, octopus and grouper are common ingredients often grilled and served with rice or vegetables. Yet, the most famous dish of Sal Island is Cachupa, a slow-cooked stew made with corn, beans, cassava and fish or meat. 

Another local delicacy is Pastéis de Atum (savoury tuna pastries) and Lagostada, a hearty lobster dish. Of course, street food is also popular, with vendors offering grilled corn on the cob and churros-style fried dough. Wash your food down with a glass of Grogue, a traditional sugarcane rum, or Ponche, a sweeter, fruit-infused version. 

Of course, just like Santiago or Boa Vista, being an island means that you are never short of a beach to visit. But, Sal Island doesn’t just have stunning golden sand beaches to sunbathe on, its beaches go over and above offering unique experiences for all. From swimming with sharks to surfing with world champions, there is never a dull beach day in Sal.

Just east of Santa Maria, you will find Kite Beach. Quite possibly one of the most famous beaches on the island, this stretch of sand is a popular haunt for kitesurfing champions who use it as their training ground. Thanks to the mix of waves and flat water, it is the ideal beach for watersports enthusiasts. New to the sport? Book classes with one of the local schools. 

If sandy beaches are not your thing, then a trip to Blue Eye is one of the top Sal activities to enjoy during your holiday. Located in Buracona, this natural pool takes its name from the topaz colour of the water when the sun shines through the hole in the rock. This effect begins around noon and lasts until 2 pm, depending on the season and the weather, of course. Just be careful with the waves, as when the sea is strong, they come crashing into the pool making swimming a challenge. 

One of the most thrilling beach experiences on Sal Island is a trip to Shark Bay. As the name suggests, this shallow bay on the east coast is famous for its population of lemon sharks. Luckily, this species is known for its calm and non-aggressive nature making it safe to wade into the knee-deep crystal clear waters to watch these creatures in their natural habitat. Local guides provide insights into the sharks’ behaviour enriching this eco-friendly experience. Whether you're snapping photos from the shore or stepping into the water for a closer look, Shark Bay offers an unforgettable experience with Sal’s incredible marine life.