May 27, 2025, 9:35 am | Read time: 11 minutes
The Cape Verde Islands are famous for their rugged coastlines and miles of sandy beaches, making this island group off the coast of Africa an ideal destination for a beach vacation. Only nine of the total 15 Cape Verde Islands are inhabited and accessible to travelers. Despite this, it’s difficult to pinpoint which island boasts the most beautiful beaches. TRAVELBOOK has curated a selection, showcasing seven of the most stunning beaches in Cape Verde and revealing a hidden gem.
The Cape Verde Islands are a paradise for surfing, diving, swimming, and sunbathing. Each of the nine inhabited islands has its own unique character, and the beaches have their own distinct advantages. While Santo Antao boasts lush nature and high mountains, the flat landscape of Sal is more characterized by a combination of desert and salt flats. TRAVELBOOK reveals which beaches in Cape Verde are the most beautiful and shares a hidden gem.
Overview
1. Praia da Atalanta – on Boa Vista
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Soft sand dunes reveal a metal skeleton on the shore–Atalanta Beach is also called Cabo Santa Maria because of the old wreck. That was the name of the Spanish freighter that got stuck in the sand on the north coast of Boa Vista half a century ago. It never reached its original destination, Buenos Aires. Among other things, the ship was loaded with many food items. The reason for its capsizing was never fully clarified. However, the people of the small island of Boa Vista were very pleased with the cargo, which was a boon during a time of food scarcity. Today, the wreck, resembling the skeleton of an animal, is a popular photo subject on one of Cape Verde’s most beautiful beaches.
Our tip: If you visit the small island of Boa Vista and this beach, be sure to head northwest. Nearby the airport, there’s a small museum. It’s a must-see, offering a lovingly curated glimpse into the fascinating history of Cape Verde.
Also interesting: Cape Verde Vacation: 6 attractive offers for you
2. Praia de Chavez – on Boa Vista
Soft sand dunes reveal a metal skeleton on the shore–Atalanta Beach is also called Cabo Santa Maria because of the old wreck. So was the name of the Spanish freighter that got stuck in the sand on the north coast of Boa Vista half a century ago. It never reached its original destination, Buenos Aires. Among other things, the ship was loaded with many foodstuffs. The wreck’s cause was never fully clarified. However, the people of the small island of Boa Vista were very pleased with the cargo, which was a boon during a time of food scarcity. Today, the wreck, resembling the skeleton of an animal, is a popular photo subject on one of Cape Verde’s most beautiful beaches.
Our tip: If you visit the small island of Boa Vista and this beach, be sure to head northwest. There, near the beach, is a small museum. The “Museum dos Naufrágios” is highly recommended, as the world has rarely seen such a well-designed museum. Along the way, you can learn about the fascinating history of shipwrecks in the region.
Also interesting: Cape Verde Vacation: 6 attractive offers for you
3. Piscina Natural Faja D’Agua – on Brava
The water shimmers in rich turquoise, and the rocks withstand the surf–on the rugged coast of the small island of Brava lies one of Cape Verde’s most beautiful beaches. It is located at the gates of the village of Fajã de Agua and impresses with its imposing cliffs. These are mainly characterized by volcanic, dark stone rocks. The beach originally formed from a volcanic crater, making it a kind of natural swimming pool today. Its location also means it has calm waters. Not ideal for surfing fans, but great for those who prefer snorkeling! The rocky shore is home to many Cape Verdean fish, which can be easily observed in the crystal-clear water. However, this beach lacks major luxuries, with no lifeguards or facilities. You can park your car along the roadside instead.
Our tip: After a long day at the beach, be sure to try Cape Verdean specialties like “Cachupa” and “Buzio” at nearby restaurants such as “Bar Tchuk” and “Restaurante di Maria.”
4. Praia do Tarrafal – on Santiago
Praia do Tarrafal is considered the most beautiful of all the Cape Verdean islands. This is due not only to its white, fine sand but also to the shade-providing palm trees, which are a rarity on Cape Verdean beaches. The palm trees are what both locals and tourists appreciate about Praia do Tarrafal. Cape Verdeans even travel from the capital, Praia, to visit this beautiful beach, enduring several hours of driving. Located in the far north of Santiago Island, Praia do Tarrafal is surrounded by a stunning mountain landscape. The area is perfect for hiking, with a generous network of trails.
Our tip: As a destination for such a hike, consider Monte Graciosa. The mountain towers over the town of Tarrafal by an impressive 650 meters, offering a breathtaking view of the island and the sea.
5. Praia de Santa Maria – on Sal
On the island of Sal is another beach that many consider the most beautiful of the Cape Verde Islands. Praia Santa Maria stretches from the center of Santa Maria to the southernmost point of Sal. It is also home to most of the island’s hotels. However, Praia Santa Maria stands out with its length of nearly two miles, so the concentration of hotels is not noticeable, and they blend harmoniously into the landscape. Sal is a popular destination for relaxing beach vacations, as Praia de Santa Maria is not the only great beach it has to offer. For example, Ponta Preta is another very beautiful beach on the island. It is also just over a mile from our favorite.
Our tip: Praia Santa Maria hosts a music festival every year. If you don’t want to miss it, be sure to find out when it will take place next.
Also interesting: The 9 best tips for a vacation in Cape Verde
6. Praia Grande – on Sao Vicente
Also on Boa Vista is Praia de Chavez. Here, you’ll find everything a vacationer’s heart desires. In addition to beach chairs, umbrellas, and several beach restaurants, Praia de Chavez even offers some free parking spaces. During the high season, lifeguards monitor the beach, making it ideal for families with children. Surfing enthusiasts also find Praia de Chavez quite appealing. Not far from the beach is a small settlement where you can book charming accommodations. If you choose to stay here, you can even walk to the beach.
Our tip: Just a few miles away is Praia das Dunas. Known and loved for its dunes, it certainly lives up to its name. Additionally, the sand here is incredibly clean and almost dazzlingly white, even by Cape Verdean standards. Highly recommended! During the high season, it is not overcrowded, so you can enjoy a pleasant time on the coast.
3. Piscina Natural Faja D’Agua – on Brava
The water shimmers in rich turquoise, and the rocks withstand the surf–on the rugged coast of the small island of Brava lies one of the most beautiful beaches of Cape Verde. It is located at the gates of the village of Fajã de Agua and boasts an impressive backdrop, mainly characterized by volcanic, dark stone cliffs. The bay originally formed from a volcanic crater, making it a kind of natural swimming pool today. Its location also means it has calm waters. Bad news for surf fans, but great for those who prefer snorkeling! The Cape Verdean fish feel particularly at home along the rocky shore and can be easily observed in the crystal-clear water. However, this beach lacks major luxuries, with no lifeguards or designated parking spaces. Alternatively, you can simply park your car on the roadside.
Our tip: Be sure to climb the mountains; the panorama from up there makes all the effort worthwhile! You can also enjoy Cape Verdean cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants. Recommended are “Bar Tchuk” and “Restaurante di Maria”.
4. Praia do Tarrafal – on Santiago
Praia do Tarrafal is considered the most beautiful of all the Cape Verdean islands. This may be due to the white, fine sand and the shade-providing palm trees, which are a rarity on Cape Verdean beaches. Locals and tourists alike appreciate the palm trees at Praia do Tarrafal. Cape Verdeans even travel from the capital, Praia, taking several hours by car to visit this beautiful beach. Located in the far north of Santiago Island, Praia do Tarrafal is surrounded by a stunning mountain landscape. The area is perfect for hiking, with an extensive network of trails.
Our tip: As a destination for such a hike, consider Monte Graciosa. The mountain towers over the town of Tarrafal by an impressive 650 meters, offering a breathtaking view of the island and the sea.
5. Praia de Santa Maria – on Sal
On the island of Sal is another beach that many consider the most beautiful of the Cape Verde Islands. Praia Santa Maria stretches from the center of the town of Santa Maria to the southernmost point of Sal. It is also home to most of the island’s hotels. However, Praia Santa Maria stands out with its length of nearly two miles. This means the concentration of hotels is not noticeable, and they blend harmoniously into the landscape. Sal is a popular destination for relaxing beach vacations, as Praia de Santa Maria is not the only great beach it has to offer. For example, Ponta Preta is another very beautiful beach on the island. It is also just over a mile from our favorite.
Our tip: Praia Santa Maria hosts a music festival every year. If you don’t want to miss it, be sure to find out when it will take place next.
Also interesting: The 9 best tips for a vacation in Cape Verde
6. Praia Grande – on Sao Vicente
Near the coastal town of Calhau, you’ll find this gem. Praia Grande is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde. The “long beach” lives up to its name and is something special even by Cape Verdean standards. Located on the northeast coast of the island of Sao Vicente, it stands out mainly due to its strong color contrast. The interplay of blue water with light sand and dark rocks is typical of Cape Verde and, for many, a symbol of the island group. Praia Grande is not only suitable for surfing; the area around the beach is also perfect for long beach walks and hikes.
Our tip: Monte Verde, at 744 meters, is the highest mountain on the island of Sao Vicente. From up here, you have a breathtaking view. To ensure you reach the top safely and fully enjoy the view, it’s advisable to hire a guide.
7. Praia Fontainhas – a hidden gem
Black rocks, lush green, vibrant blue–these are the colors of Cape Verde and thus the colors of our hidden gem. Praia Fontainhas is tucked between the rocks of the island of Santo Antao. It can be found at the mouth of the Fontainhas River. This beach is known to few, which is why it offers undisturbed solitude. This not only benefits relaxation but also nature. Praia Fontainhas is praised for its untouched beauty. Along the rocks, many colorful fish gather underwater, and because the waves are moderate here, they can be wonderfully observed while snorkeling. Unfortunately, there are no parking facilities at the beach, so the last stretch must be covered on foot, and you won’t find any sanitary facilities or beach stalls here. However, this is part of the beach’s charm, as anything else might ruin the atmosphere. Plus, the nearest restaurants in Santo Antao are just a few minutes away by car.
Our tip: After a long day in the bay, be sure to try the Cape Verdean specialties “Cachupa” and “Buzio.”