Boa Vista’s Best Beaches
At just 620km in size and home to over 55 km of white sandy beaches, it’s no surprise that Boa Vista has caught the attention of beach lovers worldwide. From the stunning Praia de Chaves and award-winning Santa Monica Beach to the smaller Praia de Sal Rei and the iconic Praia de Atalanta, many an hour can be spent relaxing on the endless sands and swimming in the turquoise waters. With an abundant choice of beach havens to visit, we take a look at Boa Vista’s Best Beaches so you can be sure to get the most out of your next visit to Cape Verde’s holiday hotspot.
Santa Monica Beach
For the second year running Santa Monica Beach, Boa Vista has topped the Trip Advisor charts to place as one of the Top 25 beaches in the world. Securing a prominent position as the 17th best beach in the world according to the leading holiday review site’s Travelers Choice awards, the destination has earned hundreds of plaudits from Trip Advisor reviewers.
Praia de Santa Mónica (Portuguese for “beach of Saint Monica“) sits to the south west of the Island. Neighbouring Povoação Velha village, the beach is adjacent to the protected area Morro de Areia Nature Reserve, which is significant for endemic birds and turtles.
Praia de Chaves
Praia de Chaves is perfect for those looking to escape amongst the wind-carved sand dunes and relax on the warm sands, as its remote location create that private beach feel. 10km wide, the beach is characterized by its curved dunes and expanses open beach which make it the ultimate sunbathing spot, whilst the calmer sea on this side of the Island create perfect conditions for swimming and snorkelling amongst the serene uninterrupted waters.
Praia de Sal Rei
Situated just south of Boa Vista’s bustling capital, Sal Rei, sits arguably the best beach for swimming on the Island: Praia de Sal Rei. The smallest of the Boa Vista’s best beaches, measuring just 1km long, the beach is well protected from the trade winds that characterize the archipelago making it a top spot for those looking to cool off in the sea after a long day relaxing on the sun-drenched sands.
Praia de Atalanta
Head north on the Island and you’ll find Praia de Atlanta, home to the iconic Shipwreck that has become one of the most recognizable images from Boa Vista. Approximately 6km northeast of the island capital of Sal Rei and 3 km west of Vigía, the north coast beach is a must visit for those looking to capture the history of the archipelago and photograph the famous Spanish cargo ship that ran aground here on September 1, 1968. The beach also forms a part of Boa Esperança Nature Reserve which also includes the beaches of Sobrado and Copinha.
White Sands Hotel & Spa
Making the most of one of the world’s best beaches, guests visiting White Sands Hotel & Spa will be able to stroll amongst the famous Santa Monica sands that sit just steps from their rooms. The first of six developments planned by The Resort Group PLC to open on Boa Vista, guests will be able to enjoy six resort swimming pools, swim-up bars, poolside eateries, as well as a range of six restaurants, luxury bars, and the world-famous Gabi Club®. Making the most of its stunning surroundings, White Sands Hotel & Spa will be managed by the world largest hotelier Meliá Hotels International, under their prestigious 5-star MELIÃ brand. To see the latest construction images, click here.