Kitesurf at Santa Maria, on Sal Island

Located at the very southern tip of Sal Island in Cape Verde, the spot of Santa Maria is a large 3-kilometer long bay that offers flat/choppy conditions.

Santa Maria attracts most of the tourists on Sal, so you won’t have any trouble finding places to eat and stay.

With a side to offshore orientation, the bay may not be ideal for beginners, especially since the wind is disrupted by buildings along the beach. However, the more consistent wind further out, as well as the warm, turquoise water, will delight freeride enthusiasts.

Pros: accessibility from Europe – infrastructure
Cons: mass tourism – a shorebreak that makes launching difficult – wind shadows on the beach

If you are looking for a change of scenery and authenticity, Santa Maria may not be for you. However, if you are looking for a compromise for the whole family, this spot will likely meet your expectations.