Fun Things to Do in Santa Maria | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Santa Maria Travel Guide
Quick overview of Santa Maria with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Santa Maria Travel Videos
- Plan Santa Maria Trip
- Things To Do In Santa Maria
- Tours And Activities In Santa Maria
- Best Time To Visit Santa Maria
- Flight Calendar For Santa Maria
- Best Areas To Stay In Santa Maria
- Hotels Map Of Santa Maria
- Transportation To Santa Maria
- Nearby Destinantion From Santa Maria
Welcome to Santa Maria! Located on the southernmost tip of the island of Sal, this vibrant coastal town offers a unique blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cultures. With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine, Santa Maria is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The town is also known for its lively nightlife, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs offering a taste of Cape Verdean music and dance. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the local culture, or indulge in thrilling water activities, Santa Maria has something for everyone.
Santa Maria Travel Videos
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Things To Do In Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a beautiful destination with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Here are some things to do in Santa Maria:
1. Explore the Beaches: Santa Maria is known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, sunbathing, and swimming in the warm Atlantic Ocean.
2. Try Water Sports: The clear waters of Santa Maria offer excellent conditions for various water sports. Go snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the vibrant marine life, or try windsurfing or kitesurfing for an adrenaline rush.
3. Take a Boat Trip: Embark on a boat trip to explore the nearby islands and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views. You can also go fishing or take a catamaran cruise to relax and soak up the sun.
4. Visit the Pedra de Lume Salt Crater: Just a short distance from Santa Maria, you'll find the Pedra de Lume Salt Crater. Take a guided tour to learn about the salt extraction process and even float in the salty waters of the crater.
5. Discover the Local Culture: Santa Maria has a vibrant local culture that you can experience by visiting the local markets. Explore the handicraft stalls and sample local delicacies to get a taste of Cape Verdean culture.
6. Enjoy the Nightlife: Santa Maria comes alive at night with its lively bars and clubs. Dance the night away to the sounds of traditional Cape Verdean music or enjoy live performances by local musicians.
7. Take a Quad Bike Tour: Explore the rugged landscapes surrounding Santa Maria on a quad bike tour. Ride through sandy dunes and off-road trails, enjoying the thrill of adventure.
8. Visit the Shark Bay: Take a trip to Shark Bay, located just a short distance from Santa Maria. Here, you can observe lemon sharks in their natural habitat and even swim with them under the guidance of experienced professionals.
9. Indulge in Local Cuisine: Santa Maria offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes where you can indulge in local cuisine.
Tours And Activities In Santa Maria
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Best Time To Visit Santa Maria
The best time to visit Santa Maria is between November and June. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. The sea is also warm and perfect for swimming and water activities. November to February is considered the peak tourist season, so it is advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance. March to June offers slightly lower prices and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit for those who prefer a quieter experience. However, it is important to note that Cape Verde is a year-round destination, and even during the rainy season (July to October), the rainfall is usually short-lived and followed by sunny weather.
Flight Calendar For Santa Maria
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Santa Maria.
Best Areas To Stay In Santa Maria
Santa Maria is the best area for accommodation in Cape Verde. It is a vibrant and popular tourist destination located on the southern coast of the island of Sal. The town offers a beautiful beachfront with crystal clear waters and soft sandy beaches, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing and water activities.
In Santa Maria, you will find a wide range of accommodation options, including luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses. The main street of Santa Maria is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, offering a variety of local and international cuisines and souvenirs.
The town also has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs where you can enjoy live music and dance the night away. Additionally, Santa Maria is known for its water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving, making it a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.
Overall, Santa Maria is the perfect choice for accommodation in Cape Verde, offering a combination of stunning beaches, diverse dining options, vibrant nightlife, and exciting water sports activities.
Hotels Map Of Santa Maria
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Santa Maria.
Transportation To Santa Maria
There are several transportation options to Santa Maria.
1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach Santa Maria is by flying into Amilcar Cabral International Airport (SID) in Sal Island. From there, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Santa Maria, which is approximately 20 minutes away.
2. By Ferry: If you are already in Cape Verde, you can take a ferry from Praia, the capital city, to Sal Island. The ferry ride takes about 2-3 hours, and once you arrive in Sal, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Santa Maria.
3. By Bus: If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus from other cities in Cape Verde to Santa Maria. However, be aware that the bus network in Cape Verde is not as extensive, and the journey may take longer compared to other modes of transportation.
4. By Rental Car: Another option is to rent a car and drive to Santa Maria. Sal Island has well-maintained roads, and renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore other parts of the island at your own pace.
It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of transportation options in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Nearby Destination From Santa Maria
1. Espargos: A vibrant town known for its bustling markets and lively atmosphere.
2. Pedra de Lume: A small village famous for its salt mines and stunning salt flats.
3. Palmeira: A picturesque coastal town with beautiful beaches and a charming harbor.
4. Sal Rei: A colorful town offering a mix of traditional Cape Verdean culture and modern amenities.
5. Praia de Chaves: A serene beach destination with crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand.
6. Tarrafal: A tranquil village nestled between mountains and the sea, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
7. Cidade Velha: A historic town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting colonial architecture and ancient ruins.
8. Sao Filipe: A charming city located on the island of Fogo, known for its volcanic landscapes and vibrant cultural scene.
9. Mindelo: A vibrant city on the island of Sao Vicente, renowned for its lively music scene and colorful carnival celebrations.
10. Boa Vista: A stunning island known for its breathtaking beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant local culture.