Water sport

The island of Sal, located in the Cape Verde archipelago, is a favorite destination for lovers of water sports. With its spectacular beaches and ideal weather conditions, Sal offers a wide range of water activities that attract enthusiasts from all over the world. Santa Maria beach, in particular, is a point of reference for windsurfing, wingfoil, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) and surfing, thanks to its large and beautiful waves, in addition to kitesurfing, a very popular activity on the island, with lessons offered by world champions. Favorable wind conditions make Sal an ideal location for wind-related sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing, particularly in the period from October to May.

From October to June, trade winds blow almost every day in Sal, with speeds between 15 and 25 knots. From December to April, the wind and wave conditions are exceptional, making this period ideal for kitesurfing. During this period, the temperature during the day varies from 22 to 25 degrees, while in the evening from 18 to 20 degrees. The water temperature fluctuates between 21 and 23 degrees. A 3mm wetsuit or shorty is recommended for those who are a little sensitive to the cold. During the other months of the year, temperatures are warmer and you can kitesurf in boardshorts.

One of the most popular beaches for kitesurfing is Kite Beach, located on the south-eastern coast of Sal, near the lively town of Santa Maria. This beach is known for being the perfect place to learn kiteboarding thanks to its ideal conditions, which include a combination of waves and calm waters, making it one of the most popular spots on the island for kitesurfing. Kite Beach is also very popular with intermediate and advanced kitesurfers, and is considered one of the best kitesurfing spots in Cape Verde along with Santa Maria Beach and Ponta Preta.

Watersports culture is deeply rooted in Sal’s local community, with many schools and specialist centers offering lessons and experiences for all skill levels. Many centers and schools are renowned for their expertise in kitesurfing, windsurfing, wingfoil and SUP, providing high quality training for both beginners and experts.

In addition to these sports, Sal also offers wonderful opportunities for diving and snorkeling. The island’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for exploring the underwater world, with several diving schools and snorkeling centers offering courses and excursions for all levels of experience. Diving enthusiasts can dive into Sal’s deep waters to discover rich marine life, submerged shipwrecks and unique coral formations. Snorkelling is a more accessible option that allows you to explore the surface of Sal’s underwater world, discovering a variety of colorful fish and coral in a tranquil and relaxing environment.