Leisure Activities

Walking or jogging: Best time for this is early in the morning just as the sun is rising, it’s a lot cooler. It starts to get dark tea-time (Sept) and around 7.30p.m. April/May so wouldn't recommend it then, as areas aren't well lit and it’s still hot.

Children activities: If you are taking children with you to Sal, there isn't much there to keep them entertained other than the beach or a few pools (if you have access to them?). There might be some entertainment on at one or two hotels, I would check before you book.

There is a picture house in Santa Maria, but it's never open. It is opposite the BCA Bank.

Most adults travel without their children to Sal when they are going to look at land or property out there, unless they already have a property there and are just taking a family break and know what to/or not to expect.

Bikes, windsurfing boards, Kite gear, surf boards and lessons, all bookable at various facilities.

Scooters and Quad bikes can also be hired from some places in Santa Maria.

Pedra de Lume (dormant crater): More photos on ‘Interesting Places’.

Copyright © 2007 CAThomas

Neptunus: A converted boat which can take tourists and locals out to sea, it has glass (Perspex) windows from which you can look through in the hull. You can see various sea creatures and scuba divers around the wrecks off shore. Currently operational during the mornings with trips lasting up to an hour. Bookings can be taken at the office near the pier. However it is best to phone an hour before to check that bookings are being taken, it won't operate if the seas are choppy. Contact: 999 42 00.

An inflatable dingy picks you up on the shore to take you to the boat, those with unsteady feet beware.

Boat trips: There are now a number of boat trips around Sal and between Sal and Boavista. Some trips are fishing boats, others whale, dolphin, turtle or bird watching. Check out more info on the Expats Cape Verde website: www.expatscapeverde.com (Yellow-E-Services).

Sea Fun.... jet ski, banana boats etc.

Water sports are popular for scuba diving, kitesurfing,windsurfing all year round but the wind sports are more popular in the winter as the winds pick up in November till April/May.