Santa Maria

About This Spot

Cape Verde's flagship kite destination, on the south tip of Sal. Driven by the NE 'Alísios' trade winds, it is one of the most reliable spots on earth in season: NOV–mid-JUN delivers wind almost daily (Dec–May the windstats show 89–97% of days at 4+ Bft), typically 18–28 kn and building through the day, strongest ~10:00–16:00. Peak/most consistent is Feb–Mar. JUL–SEP is the weak/off season (50–60% wind days) and humid. Typical kite sizes 7–10m; pack a 12m for lighter early-season days. Water/air ~21–23°C in winter (3/2 wetsuit useful), warmer by June. Two distinct riding areas: (1) Santa Maria bay in front of town/ION Club & Ponta Leme — the NE wind here is SIDE-OFFSHORE, water is flat to lightly choppy near shore but builds to chop/swell further out and breaks at the bay ends; experienced riders only because offshore component pushes you to open ocean — stay inside and have rescue cover. (2) 'Kite Beach', a 5-min drive NE, is the learner/freeride hub: SIDE-ONSHORE wind that blows you back to shore, big sandy launch, flat-to-choppy water with small waves, schools, rescue and kite repair on site. This is the spot for beginners/intermediates and the busiest in Sal. Launch: wide sandy beaches; easy walk-in. Access ~18 km from Amílcar Cabral airport by taxi/aluguer. Hazards: strong longshore/tidal CURRENTS, occasional reef and rocks plus shorebreak when a swell runs (rough at the town pier), gusts inshore from buildings, and crowds in high season. Surrounding spots (Ponta Preta, Shark Bay) are serious wave/expert terrain with reef and current — not for the bay crowd. Overall: a top, well-serviced winter travel spot suiting all levels if you pick the right beach.