Boavista beach

Santa Monica Beach, the Pearl of Boavista Island, is completely sandy. Unlike other islands in the vicinity, you will not find any shingle here. The sand is a light yellow, reminiscent of a desert, and this characteristic hue remains consistent along the entire coastline.

As you enter the water, you will not experience a sharp increase in depth. There will be 20-30 meters of shallow water, ensuring that there are no dangerous "pits" or strong currents to worry about. However, caution is advised due to the abundance of mollusks along the coastline, whose shells can be very sharp and easily cause injury.

Discussing the popularity and crowdedness of Santa Monica Beach is complex. Compared to other beaches on Boavista Island, it can feel as though there is "hardly room to move" because it attracts visitors at all hours of the day and night, while other beaches remain less frequented. Despite its bustling atmosphere, those seeking tranquility and European-quality service may not find Santa Monica Beach appealing. However, for enthusiasts of diving and surfing, this spot is ideal! The "target audience" of Santa Monica Beach is primarily young people who enjoy active vacations and extreme sports (within reasonable limits), with the infrastructure catering mainly to their needs.

Another highlight of Santa Monica Beach is the opportunity to observe sea turtles. They have become so accustomed to tourists that they are not afraid, allowing for close observation of hatchlings as they emerge from their shells and scurry towards the sea - a sight that has changed many visitors' perceptions of turtles as slow creatures. These animals are strictly protected by local authorities, offering tourists a chance to admire the wildlife responsibly.

Regarding transportation, access to Santa Monica Beach is well-organized, and reaching it is typically hassle-free. It is worth noting that the majority of tourists choose to stay in hotels near the beach, which are a mere 5-minute walk from the water. For those looking to save money, as beachfront hotel rooms can cost 5-6 times more than a rented apartment in Sal Rei, there are options such as taking a regular bus or renting a car. The latter is often preferred by adventurers who opt to stay at a campsite.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Cape Verde for a beach vacation is typically between the months of November and June. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for enjoying the archipelago's stunning beaches.

• November to June: Peak Season - During these months, Cape Verde enjoys a dry tropical climate with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and water sports.
• December to March: Windier Months - These months are particularly popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers due to the stronger winds, especially on islands like Sal and Boa Vista.
• April to June: Warm and Dry - This period is slightly warmer and continues to provide excellent conditions for a beach vacation, with less wind compared to the earlier months.

While the peak season offers the best beach weather, it's also worth considering the off-peak months of July to October. Although there's a higher chance of rain and it's the Cape Verdean summer, which can be quite hot, you'll find fewer tourists and potentially lower prices.