Find hotels in Santa Maria from £42

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Maria boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Vibrant Local Markets: Explore the lively public market, where you can experience local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
• Charming Jetty: Stroll along the picturesque jetty for stunning coastal views and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Diverse Accommodation: From luxurious hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, there's a perfect stay for every budget.
• Friendly Atmosphere: The welcoming vibe and relaxed pace make Santa Maria ideal for unwinding and enjoying a memorable getaway.

Find great hotels in Santa Maria

Discover a variety of delightful accommodation options in Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you seek family-friendly resorts, charming bed and breakfasts, or vibrant beachfront hotels, you’ll find the perfect spot for your holiday. Experience the best of the region with top-rated choices like Santanyi Cretan Beach Resort and Agua Hotels Sal Vila Verde, ensuring a memorable stay filled with sun, adventure, and relaxation.

• Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort: Experience luxurious comfort at the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, a 5-star haven perfect for families and business travellers alike. Nestled in the heart of Santa Maria, this resort offers a blend of relaxation and functionality. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments or unwind by the pool, while children are well catered for with amenities such as supervised childcare and cribs. Business travellers will appreciate the state-of-the-art meeting and conference spaces, making it an ideal choice for work and play.
• Morabeza Hotel: The Morabeza Hotel is a charming 4-star retreat that captures the essence of beachside relaxation. Located in Santa Maria, it boasts direct access to pristine sandy shores, making it a perfect spot for sun-seekers. The hotel is well-suited for both leisure and business, featuring a dedicated meeting room for corporate needs. With its warm hospitality and laid-back atmosphere, the Morabeza Hotel is a fantastic option for those seeking a blend of beach and business experiences.
• Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive: For an unforgettable, carefree holiday, look no further than the Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa. This 5-star all-inclusive resort in Santa Maria invites guests to indulge in unlimited food and drink options, with a variety of dining experiences and activities included. With direct beach access, nature lovers can revel in outdoor adventures, while families will enjoy the dedicated children's club and entertainment options. The resort's comprehensive facilities ensure a delightful stay for all, blending relaxation and recreation seamlessly.

Where to stay near Santa Maria

Santa Maria, a charming village on Sal Island, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. With stunning beaches and vibrant local markets, visitors can indulge in luxury or enjoy budget-friendly options. Explore nearby attractions that showcase the warm, friendly atmosphere of the region, perfect for a rejuvenating holiday. Whether you're soaking up the sun or discovering the local culture, Santa Maria promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Sal: Sal is a vibrant island city approximately 5.6km from Santa Maria, renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock to Sal year-round, particularly between January and March. The local market buzzes with life, offering an authentic taste of Cape Verdean culture. Popular attractions include the picturesque jetty pier and lookout points, perfect for soaking in the breathtaking ocean views. Whether you're swimming in crystal-clear waters or exploring local shops, Sal promises a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Murdeira: Located just 3.7km from Santa Maria, Murdeira is a charming village that offers a laid-back atmosphere ideal for beach lovers. Like Sal, it sees a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, peaking in the winter months. The village is home to a beautiful beach and a serene dock port, providing a perfect setting for leisurely strolls or sunbathing by the sea. The jetty pier adds to the scenic charm, making Murdeira a peaceful escape for those looking to unwind in a tranquil environment.
• Beirona: Also situated 3.7km from Santa Maria, Beirona is a quaint village that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. With visitor numbers peaking from December to February, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. The inviting beach, along with the scenic dock port and jetty pier, provides ample opportunities for family fun and exploration. Whether you're building sandcastles or enjoying a picnic by the shore, Beirona is an ideal spot for making lasting memories with loved ones.

Things to do in Santa Maria

Santa Maria offers a delightful blend of beach, outdoor, and city-themed activities perfect for a memorable getaway. Enjoy the vibrant local culture at the bustling public market, indulge in refreshing swims in the crystal-clear waters, and explore the charming streets filled with unique shops and eateries. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Santa Maria has something to cater to every traveler's taste.

Shopping

The Santa Maria Municipal Market is a vibrant hub where you can find local crafts, spices, and fresh produce, offering a true taste of Cape Verdean culture. If you're up for a drive, check out the larger shopping malls in nearby towns for more extensive options.

Recreation

In Santa Maria, the Spa at Melia Tortuga offers rejuvenating treatments with breathtaking ocean views. Alternatively, indulge in holistic therapies at the Oasis Wellness Centre, where you can experience yoga classes and soothing massages surrounded by tranquil gardens, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of kite surfing in Santa Maria, where the Atlantic winds provide perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced riders. Explore the vibrant underwater world while scuba diving or snorkelling, encountering colourful marine life in crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the stunning beaches with exciting water sports galore.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Angulo Beach Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails by the sea. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Barracuda Beach Bar for music and dancing under the stars. Don’t miss the local vibe at Café del Mar with its relaxed setting and stunning sunsets.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria

Santa Maria, Sal, offers plenty of budget-friendly options for visitors. Enjoy free attractions like Santa Maria Beach and Shark Bay Beach, and save on transport by walking or using local buses. To find the best hotel deals, consider visiting in the cheaper months of May, June, or September, and book about a month in advance; Sundays tend to be the least expensive nights. For added savings, look into Expedia’s package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities. Sorting prices from lowest to highest can also help uncover the best offers.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Maria are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Maria is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Maria is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Maria is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by booking a package with Expedia, which combines your hotel stay in Santa Maria with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in Santa Maria

Santa Maria is perfect for a beach holiday, offering a delightful mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy the stunning beaches, explore the charming jetty, and relax in the lively piazza. This vibrant destination caters to those seeking both relaxation and a taste of local culture, ensuring a memorable stay in Cape Verde.

• Santa Maria Beach: Experience the laid-back atmosphere of Santa Maria Beach, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. This idyllic beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports, making it a great spot for relaxation and fun.
• Santa Maria Pier: Stroll along Santa Maria Pier, a charming jetty that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re seeking luxury or a budget-friendly experience, the pier is an ideal place for a leisurely walk, fishing, or simply watching the sunset.
• Santa Maria Town Square: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture at Santa Maria Town Square. This lively piazza is the heart of the town, featuring local shops, eateries, and cultural events, providing a perfect blend of city life and Cape Verdean charm.

Best time to go to Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. March is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	79.2°F (26.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	74.1°F (23.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria

For a visit to Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde, the primary airport is Sal Island (SID-Amilcar Cabral International), situated 6.2km away. Notable hotels nearby include the Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa and Melia Llana Beach Resort & Spa, both 5.0km from the airport, and the Riu Palace Santa Maria, located 6.2km away. These hotels offer convenient access to the airport. Alternatively, you can consider Boa Vista Island (BVC-Aristides Pereira International), which is 19.9km from Santa Maria, featuring options like Hotel Riu Palace Boavista and VOI Praia de Chaves Resort, both within a few miles of the airport.