Cabo Verde has become one of the top destinations for water sports, especially surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. With consistent winds throughout most of the year and stunning landscapes, this archipelago is a paradise for sports enthusiasts and adventurers looking to challenge the waves.
Moreover, the natural beauty, rich culture, and the unmistakable warmth of Cape Verdeans, known as "morabeza", make the country a unique destination that combines adventure with relaxation.
The islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and São Vicente stand out as the best for these sports, offering a wide range of beaches and ideal conditions for both beginners and more experienced practitioners.
With increasingly developed tourist infrastructure, including water sports schools, equipment rentals, and accommodations near the best spots, these islands have secured a place among the world’s top locations for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.
Best Surfing Spots in Cabo Verde
Surfing in Cabo Verde is renowned for its challenging waves and year-round quality. The wind, currents, and geological formations of the islands help create some of the best surf waves in the Atlantic.
Ponta Preta (Sal Island)
Ponta Preta, located on Sal Island, is arguably the most famous surfing destination in Cabo Verde.
This spot is recommended for more advanced surfers due to its powerful and fast waves, which reach their peak during the winter months.
The waves at Ponta Preta form when the northwesterly wind hits the coast, creating water walls ideal for more radical maneuvers.
However, less experienced surfers should exercise caution, as the rocky seabed beneath the waves can pose some risk.
Ponta Preta Beach, Sal Island
Santa Maria (Sal Island)
Santa Maria Beach is another standout location for surfers of all levels.
The waters here are calmer, and the waves are not as aggressive as those at Ponta Preta, making this beach perfect for beginners or for those looking to enjoy a more relaxed surfing experience.
Additionally, the various beachfront bars and restaurants create a pleasant atmosphere for socializing after a day on the waves.
São Pedro Beach (São Vicente Island)
São Pedro Beach, on São Vicente Island, is a prime spot for both surfing and windsurfing.
With its arid landscape, turquoise waters, and steady winds, it attracts water sports enthusiasts from around the world.
It is particularly appealing to experienced surfers due to its intense waves, especially common during the summer months.
Windsurfers of various skill levels also frequent this beach, taking full advantage of the excellent conditions throughout most of the year.
Palmeira (Sal Island)
For those seeking more adrenaline, the waves at Palmeira offer a thrilling experience.
Located in a less frequented area of the island, this spot is famous for its challenging waves and breathtaking natural surroundings.
Experienced surfers greatly appreciate the intensity of this place, where nature still calls the shots.
The lava reef and unpredictable conditions make Palmeira an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic surfing adventure.
Sandy Beach, Saragarça, and Topim (São Vicente Island)
Sandy Beach is well-known among surfers for its combination of moderate waves and constant winds, making it a must-visit spot for surfers of all levels, from beginners to the more experienced.
Saragarça and Topim, located nearby, also offer excellent conditions for surfing, as well as kitesurfing, windsurfing, and bodyboarding. Sandy Beach stands out as the venue for the prestigious Open Sandy, a key event in the national surf and bodyboard championship.
Saragarça Beach, São Vicente Island
Best Kitesurfing Spots in Cabo Verde
Kitesurfing is one of the fastest-growing sports in Cabo Verde, thanks to the consistent winds that blow from November to April. The mild climate and steady winds make the archipelago one of the world’s top destinations for this sport.
Kite Beach (Sal Island)
Kite Beach is the main kitesurfing spot on Sal Island, suitable for kitesurfers of all levels.
The consistent side winds and the wide stretch of sand make this beach an ideal location for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers.
There are several kitesurfing schools along the beach where you can learn or improve your skills.
Kite Beach, Sal Island
Chaves Beach (Boa Vista Island)
Chaves Beach , located on Boa Vista Island, is another popular kitesurfing spot.
With its vast sandy expanse and constant winds, this beach offers ample space for kitesurfers to enjoy the waves without worrying about crowds.
Additionally, the natural beauty of the beach, with its golden dunes, creates a spectacular backdrop for the experience.
Varandinha Beach (Boa Vista Island)
Located in the southwest of Boa Vista Island, Varandinha Beach is a highly appealing spot for kitesurfers (and windsurfers as well).
The beach is dotted with rocky formations, creating smaller, more secluded areas. One of its unique features is Buracona, a natural cave with stunning sea views.
Varandinha Beach, Boa Vista Island
Salamansa Beach (São Vicente Island)
Salamansa is a small fishing village on São Vicente Island, increasingly recognized as an excellent kitesurfing spot in Cabo Verde.
With steady side winds and calmer waters, this beach is perfect for those just starting out in the sport.
The mountain views in the background add a special touch to the kitesurfing experience here.
There is also a local school where you can rent equipment.
Best Windsurfing Spots in Cabo Verde
Windsurfing has a long tradition in Cabo Verde, with incredible spots suitable for all levels. The islands' wind conditions are ideal for this sport, and the relatively calm waters on various beaches provide an unforgettable experience.
Ponta do Sino (Sal Island)
Ponta do Sino, located on Sal Island, is a favourite spot for advanced windsurfers, as the conditions here can be quite challenging, with strong winds and rough waters.
Estoril Beach (Boa Vista Island)
Estoril Beach, on Boa Vista Island, is perfect for beginners in windsurfing.
With calm waters and gentle winds, this spot offers the safety and comfort needed for those just starting out.
Local water sports schools offer windsurfing lessons, making this beach very attractive for anyone eager to learn.
Estoril Beach, Boa Vista Island
Gatas Bay (São Vicente Island)
Famous for its tranquil waters and consistent winds, Gatas Bay in São Vicente is one of the best windsurfing spots on the island.
This location is also known for hosting windsurfing competitions, drawing athletes from all over the world.
Praia Grande Beach (São Vicente Island)
Praia Grande, located on the northeastern coast of São Vicente, near the village of Calhau, is another great spot for windsurfing.
This long beach features white sand, clear green waters, and is surrounded by volcanic rocks. Its consistent wind conditions make it highly regarded in the world of windsurfing, surfing, and kitesurfing.
Praia Grande, on São Vicente Island
Best time of year for Surfing, Kitesurfing, and Windsurfing in Cabo Verde
While it is possible to surf, kitesurf, and windsurf year-round in Cabo Verde, the best period for these sports is from November to April, when the winds are stronger and more persistent.
This time of year also attracts international athletes participating in water sports competitions and events, turning Cabo Verde into a hub for the global sports community.
During the European winter, Cabo Verde offers mild temperatures, warm waters, and intense winds, making it an excellent escape for those wanting to avoid the cold and spend their days on the ocean, enjoying their favourite water sports.
Cape Verde’s waves await you
Cape Verde is a top destination for water sports enthusiasts. With perfect weather and unique experiences for surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers of all levels, the archipelago promises a thrilling adventure.
In addition to the islands' natural beauty, the cultural richness and hospitality of the Cape Verdean people ensure that every wave is accompanied by unforgettable moments.
Whether it’s the powerful waves of Ponta Preta, the gentle breeze at Kite Beach, or the calm waters of Gatas Bay, Cabo Verde is the paradise that all water adventurers seek.
Plan your trip to Cabo Verde now and get ready to enjoy the next water sports season.
Cape Verde’s waves await you.
