Cape Verde Sal Island Surf Guide 2025: Ponta Preta, Year-Round Waves & Atlantic Paradise

Cape Verde's Sal Island—a volcanic speck in the Atlantic Ocean 570 kilometers off West Africa's coast—has emerged as one of the world's most reliable year-round surf destinations, combining consistent Atlantic swells, perpetual offshore trade winds, warm water, and the pristine right-hand point break of Ponta Preta that rivals anywhere on the planet for mechanical perfection and uncrowded lineups.

This archipelago nation of ten islands sits perfectly positioned to capture North Atlantic winter swells (November-March delivering 4-8ft+ waves) while remaining surfable through summer months (April-October with 2-5ft consistent conditions) thanks to trade wind-generated windswells and occasional tropical systems. The crown jewel is Ponta Preta on Sal's southern tip—a long, walling right reef break offering 200-400 meter rides over volcanic rock when swells align with the island's NE trade winds that blow offshore year-round.

Beyond Ponta Preta, Sal Island reveals a spectrum of breaks: Santa Maria town beach for beginner-friendly sand-bottom waves, Palmeira northwest coast reef passes, Murdeira Bay protected intermediate walls, and the heavy Monte Leão north shore barrels for experts. The compact island (30km by 12km) allows surfers to check multiple spots daily, though most visitors base themselves in Santa Maria—the charming beach town combining Portuguese colonial architecture, Crioulo culture, fresh seafood restaurants, and proximity to Ponta Preta (2km walk or quick taxi).

Cape Verde offers distinct advantages over other Atlantic surf destinations: no crowds (Ponta Preta sees 5-20 surfers on peak days vs. 50+ at comparable European breaks), year-round warmth (water 22-26°C requiring only spring suits or boardshorts), political stability and safety (one of Africa's most secure nations), and budget-friendly costs (€800-1,400 for 10 days, cheaper than Canary Islands or Portugal). The nation's Portuguese colonial legacy means European infrastructure—paved roads, reliable internet, metered taxis, decent healthcare—while African prices keep expenses manageable. No visa required for most nationalities (90 days visa-free), and no malaria risk unlike mainland West Africa.

This comprehensive guide covers everything needed for a successful Sal Island surf trip: detailed Ponta Preta mechanics and optimal swell/wind/tide combinations, year-round seasonal breakdown, budget analysis (€800-2,200 for 10 days), Santa Maria accommodation from hostels to beachfront hotels, island break guide (Palmeira, Murdeira, Monte Leão), safety considerations (currents, reef, sun exposure), Cape Verdean culture and Portuguese/Crioulo language basics, gear recommendations, and insider tips from years of Atlantic island surf experience. Whether you're an intermediate surfer seeking uncrowded point waves or an expert chasing Ponta Preta barrels in winter groundswell, Sal delivers consistent perfection in Africa's hidden Atlantic paradise.

Quick Reference: Cape Verde Sal Island Essentials

Best season: Year-round (peak November-March for size)
Water temperature: 22-24°C winter (spring suit), 24-26°C summer (boardshorts)
Skill level: Intermediate-advanced for Ponta Preta; beginners at Santa Maria beach
Budget: €800-1,400 (US$870-1,520) for 10 days
Airport: Amílcar Cabral International (SID) 2km from Santa Maria
Visa: Not required for most nationalities (90 days visa-free)
Crowds: Light (5-20 surfers at Ponta Preta on good days)
Hazards: Volcanic rock reef, strong currents, intense sun

Understanding Ponta Preta and Sal Island Breaks

Ponta Preta: Cape Verde's World-Class Right Point

Ponta Preta ("Black Point" in Portuguese) sits at Sal's southern tip, a rocky headland jutting into the Atlantic where NW-N swells wrap into a long, mechanical right-hand point break. The wave runs 200-400 meters depending on swell size and direction, breaking over volcanic basalt reef that creates consistent sections from the takeoff zone through multiple reform walls to the inside bowl.

Wave Mechanics and Sections

On optimal days (5-7ft NW swell, NE trade winds, mid-high tide), Ponta Preta produces long, walling rights with several distinct sections. The Outside Takeoff offers a steep but makeable drop leading into fast shoulder walls—intermediates can catch waves here and ride the outer sections before kicking out. The Main Wall provides 100-200m of high-speed carving opportunities with vertical faces ideal for progression surfing. The Inside Bowl on bigger swells (6ft+) or lower tides produces hollow, barreling sections over shallower reef—advanced surfers only.

Optimal conditions: NW-N swell 4-8ft (up to 10ft+ for experts), NE-E winds (offshore year-round thanks to trade winds), mid to high tide (low tide gets shallow and sections don't connect as well). Best months November-February when North Atlantic winter storms deliver long-period groundswells (14-18 seconds). Works on wide swell window (270-10 degrees) due to exposed position.

Currents and hazards: Strong longshore current sweeps surfers north on bigger days—use channel paddle-out and accept downwind drift (walk back south between sessions). Volcanic rock reef is sharp but not as brutal as shallow coral—wipeouts cause scrapes and bruises, rarely serious cuts. Sea urchins in some areas—wear booties. No sharks (Cape Verde lacks large shark populations). Water quality excellent.

Wave face: 3-10ft | Ride length: 200-400m | Bottom: Volcanic rock reef | Skill: Intermediate-expert | Crowd: 5-20 surfers

Ponta Preta Session Strategy

Arrive early (7-8am) for lightest crowds and best winds—NE trades sometimes increase afternoon. Park at dirt lot (free), walk across volcanic rock shelf to lineup (5 min). Paddle out via channel on inside (north of main peak). Position outside for set waves or sit mid-peak for smaller consistent rides. Respect local Cabo Verdean surfers—small but skilled community, protective but welcoming if you show etiquette. After session, rinse at basic showers (bring water jug), then Santa Maria cafes (2km) for post-surf breakfast. Evening sessions (4-6pm) can be glassy and uncrowded if winds calm. Winter months (Dec-Feb) offer dawn patrol in warm 22°C water with light offshore winds—magic.

Santa Maria and Other Sal Breaks

Praia Antonio Sousa (Santa Maria Beach)

The main town beach offering beginner-friendly beachbreak with sandy bottom and gentle waves (1-4ft). Multiple surf schools operate here—lessons €30-50 for 2 hours. Good option for learning, warm-up sessions, or when Ponta Preta too big. Works on smaller NW swells or W-SW windswells. Often onshore but rideable. Family-friendly.

Skill: Beginner-intermediate | Crowd: Moderate (surf schools, tourists)

Palmeira (Northwest Coast)

Fishing village 10km north of Santa Maria with left and right reef breaks. Works on bigger NW swells (6ft+) that don't fit Ponta Preta's direction. Less crowded, more raw. Rocky bottom, strong currents. Intermediate-advanced. Requires rental car or taxi (€10-15 round trip). Worth exploring on big swell days.

Skill: Intermediate-advanced | Crowd: Light (2-8 surfers)

Murdeira Bay (West Coast)

Protected bay with sandy/rocky bottom offering 2-5ft waves in more sheltered conditions. Good for intermediates or when NE winds make other spots too windy. Small resort area nearby. Less consistent than Ponta Preta but user-friendly.

Skill: Intermediate | Consistency: Moderate

Monte Leão (North Shore)

Expert-only heavy reef break on north coast. Works on big NW swells (8ft+), producing thick barrels over sharp reef. Territorial locals, hazardous conditions. Not recommended for visitors without local guide. Uncrowded because few can surf it.

Skill: Expert | Access: Local guide recommended

When to Surf Sal Island: Year-Round Breakdown

November-March: Peak Swell Season (Winter)

Swell: Excellent consistency. North Atlantic winter storms generate powerful NW-N groundswells (4-8ft average, 10ft+ sets on big days) with long periods (14-18 seconds). Ponta Preta fires 5-6 days per week. Wind: Dominant NE trade winds (offshore for Ponta Preta). Water temp: 22-24°C (3/2mm or spring suit). Air temp: 24-28°C. Crowds: Moderate (peak tourism season but still uncrowded by global standards). Best for: Advanced surfers chasing overhead barrels, performance surfing, consistent conditions.

April-June: Spring Shoulder Season

Swell: Moderate. Decreasing NW swell frequency but still 3-4 good days per week (3-6ft average). Wind: NE trades continue. Water temp: 24-25°C (boardshorts or shorty). Air temp: 25-29°C. Crowds: Light (European summer vacation hasn't started). Best for: Intermediates, budget travelers, uncrowded sessions.

July-October: Summer Consistent Season

Swell: Smaller but consistent NW windswells and occasional SW tropical swells (2-5ft average, 6ft+ on good days). Rideable 4-5 days per week. Wind: NE trades (offshore). Water temp: 24-26°C (warmest, boardshorts). Air temp: 28-32°C (hot). Crowds: Light-moderate (European summer tourists but many are kiteboarders). Best for: All levels, warm water sessions, learning in mellow conditions.

Year-Round Advantage

Unlike seasonal destinations (Senegal, Morocco), Cape Verde never goes flat. NE trade winds blow offshore 300+ days/year, ensuring clean conditions. Summer may be smaller (2-5ft vs. winter's 4-8ft) but remains surfable and fun. This makes Sal ideal for flexible travel dates or extended stays (digital nomads appreciate the consistency).

Cape Verde Sal Island Budget Breakdown

Accommodation (€25-150/night)

Budget hostels: €25-40/night dorms or basic rooms in Santa Maria. Mid-range guesthouses/surf camps: €60-90/night with meals sometimes included. Beachfront hotels: €100-150/night with pools, restaurants, ocean views. 10-day totals: Budget €250-400, Mid €600-900, High-end €1,000-1,500.

Food (€5-40/day)

Budget: Local cachupa stew €5-8, grilled fish €8-12, supermarkets for groceries €20-30/day. Mid-range: Restaurant meals €15-25/day. High-end: Upscale dining €25-40/day. 10-day totals: Budget €50-120, Mid €150-250, High €250-400.

Transport

Flights: Europe (Lisbon, Amsterdam, Milan) €250-600 return. US via Lisbon €600-1,000. Local: Airport to Santa Maria taxi €5-10 (2km!). Ponta Preta taxi €3-5. Bike rental €5-10/day. Car rental €30-50/day (optional, €300-500 for 10 days).

Surf Gear

Surfboard rental €15-25/day (€150-250 for 10 days—bring your own to save). Wetsuit rental €10-15/day. Lessons €30-50 for 2 hours.

Sample 10-Day Budgets

Budget traveler: €800 total (hostel, local food, bike, own boards). Mid-range: €1,200 (guesthouse, mix dining, taxi, rentals). High-end: €2,000 (hotel, upscale dining, car, guiding). All exclude flights.

Getting to Sal Island and Around

Flying to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID)

Sal's airport is 2km from Santa Maria (5-minute taxi, €5-10). Direct flights from Lisbon (SATA, TAP Portugal, 4 hours), Amsterdam (TUI, 6 hours), Milan, Paris, London (seasonal charters). Book 6-12 weeks ahead for best rates. Cape Verde uses CVE currency (€1 = 110 CVE fixed rate). Exchange Euros at airport or banks.

Santa Maria to Ponta Preta

2km—walk (20-30 min), bike (10 min), or taxi (€3-5). Most surfers walk or bike. Taxis metered via Taxi CV app.

Exploring Sal Island

Rental car (€30-50/day) useful for Palmeira, Murdeira, Pedra de Lume salt crater, Buracona blue eye. Roads paved, driving easy. Taxis available for day trips (€20-40 depending on distance). Santa Maria walkable for restaurants, shops, nightlife.

Safety, Health & Cultural Tips

Ocean Safety

Currents: Strong at Ponta Preta on big days—use channel, accept drift. Reef: Volcanic rock, wear booties. Sun: Intense UV year-round—SPF 50+, rash guard, hydrate 3L+ water daily. Sharks: Extremely rare, no attacks recorded.

Health

No malaria in Cape Verde (huge advantage over mainland Africa). Tap water drinkable in hotels but bottled recommended. No required vaccinations (unlike Senegal's yellow fever). Travel insurance advised (€20-50 for 10 days). Sal has clinics for minor issues; serious cases evacuated to Praia (Santiago Island) or Europe.

Culture and Language

Language: Portuguese official, Crioulo (creole) local. English spoken at hotels/surf camps. Learn basics: "Obrigado" (thank you), "Bom dia" (good morning). Culture: Morabeza (hospitality) similar to Senegal's Teranga. Friendly, laid-back island vibe. Tipping 10% at restaurants. Bargaining not expected (fixed prices). Safe, welcoming to tourists.

What to Pack

Wetsuits: 3/2mm or spring suit (winter), boardshorts or shorty (summer). Boards: Shortboard (5'10"-6'2"), step-up (6'4"+) for big days, fish for small summer swells. Accessories: Reef booties, tropical wax, leash backup, rash guard, surf hat. Clothing: Lightweight breathable shirts, shorts, sandals, light sweater for evenings. Tech: Passport (6+ months valid), Euros for exchange, unlocked phone for CVMóvel SIM (€10-20 data), power adapter Type C/F (230V), sunscreen SPF 50+. Optional: Portuguese phrasebook, snorkel gear, hiking shoes for exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the best time to surf Sal Island Cape Verde?

Cape Verde offers year-round surf, but November through March is prime season with consistent North Atlantic swells (4-8ft faces) from winter storms, offshore NE trade winds, and warm water (22-24°C). Peak months are December-February when Ponta Preta fires regularly with long-period groundswells. April-October sees smaller swells (2-5ft) but still rideable conditions—trade winds remain offshore, water stays warm (24-26°C), and crowds thin out. Unlike seasonal destinations, Sal never goes completely flat. Summer (June-August) has fewer big days but consistent waist-high to head-high surf. For guaranteed overhead waves and optimal conditions, visit November-March. For warm water, light crowds, and budget accommodation, try April-June or September-October shoulder seasons.

What skill level do you need to surf Ponta Preta?

Ponta Preta is an intermediate to advanced wave requiring solid reef experience and wave knowledge. The right point breaks over volcanic rock reef with sections ranging from mellow shoulder walls to hollow barrels on bigger swells (6ft+). Strong currents and sharp reef make it unsuitable for beginners. You should be comfortable surfing overhead waves, navigating rocky lineups, and handling long paddle-outs in currents. The outer sections offer makeable walls for intermediates on smaller days (3-5ft), while the inside bowl produces expert barrels when it's firing. Beginners can learn at Praia Antonio Sousa beach in Santa Maria (sandy bottom, gentle waves 1-3ft) with surf schools. If you can confidently surf reef breaks at your home spot and handle currents, Ponta Preta rewards with world-class long rides (200-400m) in uncrowded lineups.

How much does a Cape Verde surf trip cost?

Budget €800-1,400 (US$870-1,520) for 10 days depending on accommodation and lifestyle. Breakdown: Budget option (€800-1,000 total)—hostels/guesthouses €25-40/night, local cachupa meals €5-12/day, surfboard rental €15-25/day, local transport €3-8. Mid-range (€1,100-1,400)—surf camps €60-90/night with meals, own boards, restaurant dining €15-25/day. High-end (€1,500-2,200)—beachfront hotels €100-150/night, upscale dining €25-40/day. Flights: Europe (Lisbon, Amsterdam, Milan) €250-600 return; US East Coast via Lisbon €600-1,000. Sal uses Cape Verdean escudo (CVE), pegged to Euro (€1 = 110 CVE). Bring Euros to exchange. Sal is more expensive than mainland Africa but cheaper than Europe. No visa required for most nationalities (90 days visa-free). Surf gear rentals available in Santa Maria but bringing boards saves €150-250 for 10 days.

Is Cape Verde safe for surf travelers?

Cape Verde is one of Africa's safest countries with stable democracy, low violent crime, and tourism-friendly culture. Sal Island is particularly safe—beach town Santa Maria welcomes surfers and tourists with minimal issues. In the water: Ponta Preta has strong currents on bigger days requiring competence. Reef is volcanic rock (sharp but not as brutal as shallow coral). No sharks reported—Cape Verde lacks large shark populations. Water quality excellent. On land: petty theft rare but don't leave valuables on beach or in cars. Santa Maria is walkable and safe day/night. Taxis reliable and metered. Health: no malaria in Cape Verde (unlike mainland West Africa), tap water drinkable in hotels (though bottled recommended), healthcare adequate for minor issues. Portuguese colonial legacy means European standards in infrastructure. Women travelers report feeling very safe. Local Crioulo culture emphasizes hospitality (morabeza). Most surf travelers have zero safety concerns—Sal feels more European than African in terms of security and infrastructure.

Can you surf Cape Verde year-round?

Yes—Cape Verde is a true year-round surf destination thanks to its Atlantic position 570km off West Africa coast. Winter (November-March) brings consistent NW-N swells from North Atlantic storms (4-8ft, up to 10ft+ on big days) with offshore NE trade winds. Water 22-24°C, air 24-28°C, 3/2mm or spring suit. This is peak season with best swell consistency. Summer (June-August) sees smaller NW windswells and occasional SW swells (2-5ft average) but still rideable 4-5 days per week. Water warms to 24-26°C (boardshorts or shorty wetsuit). Air hot (28-32°C). Trade winds remain offshore year-round—massive advantage over many destinations. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are shoulder seasons with moderate swells (3-6ft), fewer crowds, and pleasant temps. Unlike Senegal or Morocco which go flat in summer, Sal always has waves. The trade-off: winter has bigger, more consistent surf; summer has smaller but still fun conditions. Choose winter for performance surfing, summer for mellow sessions and budget travel.

What other surf breaks are on Sal Island?

Sal Island offers a dozen breaks within 20km of Santa Maria. Ponta Preta (southern tip) is the flagship right point with 200-400m rides. Praia Antonio Sousa (Santa Maria town beach) offers beginner-friendly beachbreak with sandy bottom, surf schools, 1-4ft gentle waves. Palmeira (northwest coast, 10km from Santa Maria) has left and right reef breaks, less crowded, works on bigger NW swells. Murdeira Bay (west coast) features protected bay waves, good for intermediates, sandy/rocky bottom, 2-5ft. Kite Beach (near airport) is primarily kitesurfing spot but has small surf on big swells. Monte Leão (north coast) is an expert reef with heavy barrels, requires local knowledge and big swells (6ft+), uncrowded. Most visiting surfers focus on Ponta Preta as primary break, with Santa Maria beach for small days or learning. Hire local guides (Mitu Monteiro Surf Center, Surfing Sal) for break recommendations based on swell/wind—each break has optimal conditions. Sal is small enough (30km long) to check multiple spots daily by rental car or taxi.

Do you need a car to surf Sal Island?

Not essential but helpful. Ponta Preta is 2km from Santa Maria town center—walkable in 20-30 minutes or €3-5 taxi ride (5 min). Most surf accommodations in Santa Maria offer bike rentals (€5-10/day) for easy Ponta Preta access. However, a rental car (€30-50/day for economy) unlocks flexibility: checking Palmeira, Murdeira, or Monte Leão on different swell directions, exploring the island (Pedra de Lume salt crater, Buracona blue eye lagoon, Espargos local culture), grocery shopping at supermarkets. Santa Maria has metered taxis and apps (Taxi CV) for point-to-point trips—affordable and reliable. Many surf travelers stay in Santa Maria, walk or bike to Ponta Preta, and use taxis for exploring. If staying 10+ days and wanting to surf multiple spots, rent a car for 3-5 days. Roads are paved, driving easy, right-hand traffic (like Europe). Parking at Ponta Preta free on dirt lot. Budget option: walk/bike for surf, taxis for non-surf trips (€5-15 per ride). Convenience option: rental car for full trip (€300-500 for 10 days).

What should you pack for a Cape Verde surf trip?

Wetsuits: November-March bring 3/2mm full suit or spring suit (water 22-24°C). April-October boardshorts or 2mm shorty (water 24-26°C). Many surfers go boardshorts year-round—personal preference. Reef booties recommended for volcanic rock (not sharp coral but still rough). Boards: bring 2-3 if possible—standard shortboard (5'10"-6'2") for overhead Ponta Preta, step-up (6'4"-6'8") for rare big days (8ft+), fish or groveler (5'6"-5'10") for smaller summer swells. Performance shortboards work best at Ponta Preta's fast walls. Other surf essentials: tropical/warm wax, leash backup (reef can snap), rash guard (sun protection), surf hat, waterproof bag, first aid kit (antiseptic for reef cuts), sunscreen SPF 50+. Clothing: lightweight breathable shirts, shorts, sandals for hot weather (24-32°C year-round). Light sweater for evening breezes. Modest clothing for town (Cape Verde is relaxed but respectful dress appreciated). Tech/documents: passport (valid 6+ months), no visa needed for most nationalities (check before travel), Euros for exchange to CVE, unlocked phone for local SIM (CVMóvel, Unitel T+ offer data packages €10-20), power adapter (Type C/F, 230V like Europe), offline maps. Optional: Portuguese phrasebook (Portuguese official language, Crioulo local creole), snorkel gear for clear Atlantic waters, hiking shoes for exploring volcanic landscapes. Cape Verde is Portuguese-influenced so packing similar to Azores or Madeira trips.

Your Cape Verde Sal Island Adventure Awaits

Cape Verde's Sal Island delivers what every traveling surfer dreams of: consistent, uncrowded waves in warm water, year-round offshore winds, budget-friendly costs, and the kind of mechanical right-point perfection at Ponta Preta that rivals anywhere globally. Whether you're chasing winter groundswell barrels (November-March), enjoying mellow summer sessions (April-October), or simply seeking an Atlantic escape where waves never stop, Sal rewards with African warmth and European infrastructure.

Pack your spring suit (or just boardshorts for summer), your favorite shortboard, reef booties for volcanic rock, and an open mind ready to embrace Portuguese-Crioulo morabeza hospitality. Book that flight to Amílcar Cabral Airport, exchange Euros for escudos, settle into Santa Maria's beach town charm, and prepare to experience Ponta Preta's long, walling rights in splendid isolation. Your year-round Atlantic paradise is calling—Sal Island awaits.