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Surf in Cape Verde: Best beaches and prices
Discover the complete guide to the best places, prices and seasons to enjoy your surfing experience in Cape Verde.
Cape Verde, that small volcanic archipelago off the African coast, offers much more than paradise beaches. In recent years it has grown into one of the most exciting surf destinations in the Atlantic, perfect for riders who want powerful waves, unique landscapes and a laid-back atmosphere far from the crowds.
Surfing in Cape Verde offers an experience that combines exceptional natural conditions with local charm. The most popular islands for surfing are Sal and Boa Vista, where the constant north-easterly wind and reef bottoms create world-class breaks. Santa Maria (on Sal) suits beginners and surf schools, while Ponta Preta attracts experienced surfers who want perfect barrels and serious challenges. If you want a different destination that combines surfing, culture and relaxation, Cape Verde waits for you with the perfect mix of wind, sea and great vibes.
Best Places To Surf In Cape Verde
If you’re planning a surf trip to Cape Verde, you’ll love knowing that this archipelago hides real treasures for ocean lovers. Each island has its own character and wave type: From perfect reef breaks to sandy beaches that suit beginners. Below, we explain the best places to surf in Cape Verde, what you can expect in each one and why they deserve a spot on your next adventure.
1. Ponta Preta (Island of Sal)
Located near Santa Maria, in the south of the island, Ponta Preta stands as the jewel of surfing in Cape Verde. This spot enjoys fame for its powerful, perfectly shaped waves that break over reef and can reach three metres in height. Experienced surfers meet here and the spot hosts international competitions such as the World Surf League Qualifying Series. If you dare to surf here, get ready for fast barrels, constant offshore winds and a vibrant energy on the beach. The level suits advanced riders, and its advantages include world-class waves and a truly authentic surf atmosphere.
2. Santa Maria (Island of Sal)
In the same southern area of the island you’ll find Santa Maria, the liveliest and most accessible beach for those who start or want to improve their technique. Here the waves feel softer and more predictable, with a wide shoreline and golden sand that create perfect conditions for lessons or relaxed sessions. In addition, several schools and surf camps offer board rental and group classes. The level suits beginners and intermediates, and its advantages include a safe setting, good infrastructure and easy access from the town.
3. Curral Joul (Island of Boa Vista)
This wild, rarely crowded beach lies in the north of Boa Vista. Curral Joul offers a more rustic setting, with fast waves and constant winds that attract both surfers and kitesurfers. It’s an ideal place if you want nature, tranquillity and uncrowded waves. Locals often say the sea feels “purer” here, and spotting turtles or dolphins on the horizon doesn’t surprise anyone. The level ranges from intermediate to advanced, and its advantages include very few people, impressive natural scenery and clean waves.
4. Praia da Chaves (Island of Boa Vista)
Located on the western side of the island, Praia da Chaves combines long stretches of white sand with gently breaking waves, perfect for enjoying surfing without hurry. It’s a good spot for couples or families, because the beach also invites long rest stops. During certain months, organisers hold local surf and bodyboard gatherings, a great chance to connect with the Cape Verdean community. The level suits beginners and intermediates, and its advantages include a relaxed environment, manageable waves and a friendly vibe.
5. Ali Baba (Island of Sal)
About ten minutes from Santa Maria, this spot, still little known among tourists, offers one of the longest waves in the archipelago. Its shape works perfectly for turns and manoeuvres, so many surfers come here to refine their style. Although the spot isn’t the easiest to find, the walk or quad ride through the dunes really pays off. The level suits intermediate surfers, and its advantages include long rides, very few crowds and a strong sense of total freedom.
In January or February, try to match your trip with the Cape Verde Ocean Festival on the island of Sal, an event that celebrates surfing, kitesurfing and local culture with music, food and beach competitions.
Connectivity While You Surf In Cape Verde
Internet access in Cape Verde feels acceptable in tourist and urban areas, especially on the islands of Sal, Boa Vista and Santiago, where you’ll find solid 4G coverage. However, when you surf on more remote or isolated beaches, the signal often weakens or even disappears. Therefore, download your maps and surf forecasts before heading out, and use the Wi-Fi in accommodation or local cafés when you’re back on land.
If you want to stay connected without relying on a local SIM, a great alternative is the Holafly eSIM for Africa. Its main advantage: You can activate it before travelling and start using data as soon as you land, without searching for a local shop. This way you’ll check the surf forecast, upload your photos and stay in touch without worrying about roaming.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Best Seasons To Surf In Cape Verde
The best time to surf in Cape Verde runs from November to March, when the Atlantic delivers more constant, powerful swells. During these months, the strong north-easterly trade wind creates perfect conditions for long, well-formed waves, especially on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista. This season suits both experienced surfers and those who want to improve their skills, because the weather stays warm (around 25 °C) and the ocean keeps a constant, lively energy.
If you travel in these months, you’ll also enjoy a livelier atmosphere: Small local surf events take place, the beaches feel more animated and Santa Maria hosts nights with live music. Between April and October, the sea calms slightly and the waves soften, which helps if you’re just starting or prefer quieter sessions. In short, Cape Verde offers surfing all year, but the Cape Verdean winter (November–March) is when the waves really shine.
Costs Of Surfing In Cape Verde
Before you paddle out, it helps to know clearly how much surfing in Cape Verde costs. Below, we explain how much it costs to enjoy the surf experience in Cape Verde, so you can plan your trip without surprises.
- Board and equipment rental. For example: On Boa Vista, one centre offers surfboard rental. A half-day rental costs €25 ($27) and a full day €35 ($38). On the island of Maio you’ll find even cheaper rates. For example: Board rental costs around €12.88 (US$15) for the day. So for a single session you can budget about €21.47–34.35 ($25–40), depending on the spot and the gear you choose.
- Packages and beginner lessons. A surf camp on Sal that includes eight nights’ accommodation, five days of lessons (two hours per day), equipment and airport transfers costs in high season about €910 ($980) for one person. In the lower season, the same package drops to €730 ($850.16). These packages usually include accommodation, meals, equipment, lessons and sometimes transfers, so they offer good value if you’re travelling mainly to learn.
- If you already surf and only want to rent gear for one day, plan around €25.76–34.35 ($30–40). If you’re starting and prefer a full multi-day package with lessons, accommodation and everything else, you’ll probably spend about €686.93–858.66 ($800–1,000), depending on the island, season and level of service.
How To Start Surfing In Cape Verde
Cape Verde offers a perfect destination to learn: It has wide beaches, local schools on islands like Sal and Boa Vista, relatively warm water and consistent swell during the high season.
- Choose the right spot and season: Prioritise Sal or Boa Vista if you’re a beginner. They offer more schools, better infrastructure and beaches with softer breaks. The best season for big, consistent waves runs from November to March. If you want gentler conditions for learning, April–October usually feels calmer.
- Book a school or surf camp in advance: Look for schools that offer beginner packages, with theory and practice sessions and equipment included. A week-long surf camp usually includes accommodation, meals, lessons and transfers. This option gives the most comfort when you start. Check that instructors hold valid certifications and that they use soft-top boards (foam) for first lessons: They feel safer and forgive more mistakes.
- Paperwork and basic logistics: Arrive prepared, bring your passport and confirm whether you need any additional documents. Check if your mobile works (or purchase a local eSIM/SIM) to coordinate pick-ups and check forecasts.
Book accommodation near the surf spot or with transport service to the spot: avoid wasting time and energy on long transfers on the first day. - Initial equipment: What you need and what they’ll lend you. The school usually provides a board (foam for beginners), leash and impact vest or rashguard. Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a lycra top or technical T-shirt, a towel and, if you feel the cold, a light wetsuit. The water usually feels mild, but the wind can cool you down.
- First lesson: You’ll start with theory on the sand before entering the water. You’ll also learn basic safety, like how to fall, signal problems, read waves, recognise the different parts of the board and perform the pop-up. Practise the pop-up many times on the beach before paddling out: This speeds up progress once you’re in the water.
- Water practice with instructor support: Your first sessions usually take place in the whitewater zone, where the instructor positions your board, gives you a push and guides your take-off. Real progress comes with repetition and observation. Ask your instructor for clear feedback about body position, gaze and back-foot placement.
- Safety in reef breaks and currents: Always ask about currents, sandbanks and reef areas. Some spots break over coral or rock and demand extra care. Use a leash and avoid surfing alone. If you go out without a guide, make sure someone on land knows when you enter and leave the water. Respect local signs and any advice from lifeguards, where present.
- Respect surf etiquette: Wait your turn, don’t paddle through another surfer’s line and keep a safe distance. Good behaviour avoids conflicts and opens doors to surf with local riders who can share valuable tips.
Surf in Cape Verde: Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The islands of Sal and Boa Vista offer wide beaches, steady waves and schools with experienced instructors, perfect for beginners. In addition, the climate stays warm all year and the atmosphere feels very relaxed.
The most active season runs from November to March, when the swell grows bigger and more consistent. If you prefer gentler waves for learning, April to October works perfectly.
A group lesson costs between €25.76–51.52 ($30–60). A full week surf camp can go from €601.06–858.66 ($700–1,000), depending on the island and the included services.
No. Many schools offer programmes for complete beginners that include theory, practice on land and guided sessions in the water.
Yes, especially at Ponta Preta (island of Sal). Here you’ll find international tournaments and festivals such as the Cape Verde Ocean Festival. These events mix surf, music and local culture.
Absolutely. Of course. Cape Verde also works perfectly for kitesurfing, diving and hiking, and you’ll enjoy its music, food and the warmth of its people.
