Santa Mónica Beach

Praia de Santa Mónica, located on the southwestern edge of Boa Vista, is widely recognized as one of the most extensive beaches in Cape Verde. The shoreline stretches for approximately 15 kilometers, featuring wide expanses of fine white sand bordering the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike the more developed beaches near Sal Rei, Santa Mónica remains largely untouched by large-scale resort infrastructure, preserving its wild and isolated character. The sheer size of the beach means that it rarely feels crowded. Visitors can walk for kilometers without encountering substantial crowds. The waters here can have strong currents and waves, making swimming challenging on certain days, but it is an excellent location for beachcombing, long walks, and observing the raw coastal environment. The sand dunes backing the beach are part of a broader desert ecosystem characteristic of Boa Vista. Access to Santa Mónica typically involves joining an organized quad bike tour or renting an off-road vehicle, as the route from Sal Rei consists mainly of dirt tracks. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes from the main town. The dry season from November to June is the handy time to visit, providing consistent sunshine and strong coastal breezes. Visitors must bring their own provisions, as amenities directly on the beach are almost non-existent.

Nearby cities

Sal Rei

Sal Rei is the capital of Boa Vista island and a growing tourist center.

Rabil

Rabil is the former capital of Boa Vista and a center of handicrafts.

Estância de Baixo

Estância de Baixo is a quiet village in the interior of Boa Vista.

Curral Velho

An abandoned settlement on the southern coast of Boa Vista, featuring stone ruins and a nearby small islet.

Fundo das Figueiras

Fundo das Figueiras is a picturesque village in the eastern part of Boa Vista.

João Galego

João Galego is one of the villages in the northern region of Boa Vista.

Povoação Velha

Povoação Velha is the oldest settlement on Boa Vista island.

Cabeça dos Tarrafes

Cabeça dos Tarrafes is the easternmost village on Boa Vista island.

Bofareira

Bofareira is a small, authentic village in the north of Boa Vista.

More places

Monte Estância

The highest mountain on the island of Boa Vista, rising from the flat desert landscape.

Boa Vista

The third largest island, characterized by desert-like landscapes and endless dunes.

Morro de Areia

An extensive area of shifting dunes on the west coast of Boa Vista, forming an impressive desert landscape right on the Atlantic.

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

One of the oldest churches on the island of Boa Vista, located near the village of Povoação Velha.

Rabil Lagoon Bird Watching Area

An important wetland area on Boa Vista that serves as a resting place for numerous migratory bird species.

Praia de Chaves

A vast, pristine beach on Boa Vista, bordered by giant sand dunes.

Boa Vista Whale Watching Station

A significant site for observing humpback whales, which calve in the waters off Boa Vista.

Date Palm Groves of Sal Rei

Picturesque palm groves near Sal Rei, providing shade and dates for the region.