Hotels in Sal

Discover Sal: A Coastal Paradise of Secluded Shores and Vibrant Culture

Sal, Cape Verde, is a sun-drenched paradise renowned for its breathtaking beaches and azure waters. The island’s unique landscapes boast golden sands, vibrant coral reefs, and captivating dunes, making it a haven for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Explore the charming town of Santa Maria, where colourful markets and lively nightlife await. Experience the thrill of windsurfing or simply unwind under the swaying palm trees. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, Sal is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a taste of Cape Verdean culture. Discover the enchanting allure of this idyllic isle.

Discover great hotels in Sal

Sal, Cape Verde offers a range of hotel accommodations from luxurious beachfront resorts to charming boutique hotels. Enjoy spacious rooms with stunning ocean views and amenities such as infinity pools and fine dining. Room rates vary, catering to both budget-conscious travellers and those seeking a lavish getaway in Santa Maria. Here are some of our travellers' favourite hotels in Sal:

1. Melia Tortuga BeachOpens in a new window: This resort offers an enticing beach adventure experience, perfect for leisure travellers seeking excitement and relaxation. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports, including windsurfing, surfing, horse riding, and waterskiing. The property is designed to enhance comfort, featuring elegant accommodations and well-maintained facilities. Visitors appreciate the seamless blend of thrilling activities and tranquil beachfront relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those looking to create memorable moments under the sun.
2. Hilton Cabo Verde Sal ResortOpens in a new window: Experience the ultimate beach getaway at this resort, which caters to adventurous travellers eager for both relaxation and activity. With direct beach access, visitors can enjoy an array of on-site and nearby sports such as snorkelling, fishing, and ziplining. The property boasts luxurious amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay with exceptional service. Frequent travellers rave about the vibrant atmosphere and diverse recreational options, allowing them to unwind in style while exploring the stunning coastal landscape.
3. Melia Llana Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window: This all-inclusive resort redefines luxury for leisure travellers seeking a comprehensive and indulgent holiday experience. Guests can savour unlimited gourmet food and drinks, alongside a wealth of activities such as yoga, Pilates, and volleyball on the beach. With a focus on high-quality dining and exceptional service, the resort ensures a delightful stay. The sophisticated ambiance, combined with direct beach access and premium amenities, creates a perfect setting for those wishing to immerse themselves in relaxation and enjoyment.

Top locations to stay in Sal

Some of the best areas to stay in Sal, Cape Verde, are Santa Maria, Espargos, and Murdeira. Santa Maria boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it perfect for beach lovers. Espargos offers cultural experiences and local markets, while Murdeira is ideal for those seeking relaxation. For first-time visitors, Santa Maria is the most appealing choice.

1. Santa MariaOpens in a new window: Santa Maria is the heart of Sal, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The powdery white sands of Praia de Santa Maria invite you to relax and soak up the sun, while the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. The town is lively, featuring a range of shops, local markets, and cultural attractions, including traditional music and dance performances. Don't miss the charming promenade lined with cafes and boutiques, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and watch the sunset over the ocean.
2. EspargosOpens in a new window: Espargos serves as the island's capital and is a great place to experience local life. It offers a more authentic Cape Verdean vibe, with bustling markets and shops selling handmade crafts and local produce. While it may not have the beaches of Santa Maria, Espargos is a gateway to exploring the island's natural beauty, including the stunning salt flats nearby. The town also hosts cultural events, giving you a taste of Cape Verde's rich traditions and vibrant community spirit.
3. MurdeiraOpens in a new window: Murdeira is a serene haven, ideal for those seeking relaxation away from the busier tourist spots. With its calm waters and picturesque bay, it’s perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a great choice for couples or anyone looking to recharge. You can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach and take in the beautiful scenery, or simply relax in your accommodation while soaking up the tranquil surroundings.

Things to do in Sal

Sal entices travellers with its stunning sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Explore the inviting coastline through swimming, snorkelling, and diving, or take to the waves for a thrilling boating experience. With wind-swept landscapes and gentle hills, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

• Santa Maria BeachOpens in a new window – This stunning stretch of soft sand invites you to relax under the sun or take a refreshing dip in the azure waters. With gentle waves, it's perfect for swimming or simply lounging while enjoying the breathtaking views.
• Santa Maria PierOpens in a new window – Stroll out onto the pier to soak in the scenic vistas of the coastline. This is a great spot for photography or watching local fishermen at work, making it a lovely place to connect with the vibrant maritime culture of Sal.
• Santa Maria Town SquareOpens in a new window – Experience the heart of Santa Maria by visiting the lively town square. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a coffee, browse local shops, or take part in community events that showcase the island's rich culture.
• Kite BeachOpens in a new window – Known for its consistent winds, Kite Beach is a haven for kiteboarding enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just keen to watch the colourful kites dance in the sky, this beach offers an exhilarating atmosphere.
• Shark Bay BeachOpens in a new window – A unique destination where you can encounter friendly sharks in their natural habitat! This spot is perfect for snorkelling and offers a rare opportunity to observe marine life up close in clear waters.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Sal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Sal is during May, June, and September, when hotel prices are lower. For a thorough exploration of the island's key landmarks and cultural attractions, staying for at least 6 to 7 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to appreciate the rich history, indulge in local cheese, and unwind at budget-friendly bars. Additionally, you can enjoy beach days, visit the zoo, and take in the islands' relaxing atmosphere. As an added benefit, prices for accommodation may drop during these months, making it a great value for money choice for travellers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To find last-minute deals on Hotels.com, start by exploring the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications will help you stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, potentially leading to great savings. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to find the best deals. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you could be the first to book your perfect getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Sal. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels may provide a more personalised touch and occasionally better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be pricier, but with Sal's superb public transport connections, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Sal

Sal experiences its lowest average temperature in March, at 69.8°F (21.0°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.7°F (26.5°C). September tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Sal are January to March, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, May, August, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.