Find hotels in Santa Maria from £59

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Maria boasts beautiful beaches like Praia de Santa Maria, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, with local markets and traditional cuisine that showcase Cape Verdean culture.
• Picturesque Jetty: Stroll along the charming jetty, offering stunning views and a perfect spot for photographs.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of lodging options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly stays, cater to every traveller's needs.
• Adventure Opportunities: Enjoy water sports, city tours, and explore hidden gems, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.

Find great hotels in Santa Maria

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde, catering to every type of traveller. From charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, you’ll find the perfect spot for your beach adventure or family getaway. Experience the best hotels in Santa Maria, featuring amenities designed to enhance your stay, whether you seek relaxation or excitement in this stunning destination.

• Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort: The Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort is a prestigious 5-star resort with an impressive guest rating of 8.8, perfect for those seeking a blend of beach relaxation and adventure. Located in Santa Maria, this property offers direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for sun-seekers and thrill-seekers alike. Guests can engage in a variety of adventure sports such as waterskiing, sailing, and fishing, all available onsite or nearby. With its luxurious amenities and stunning coastal views, this resort provides an unforgettable experience for beach enthusiasts and adventure lovers.
• Morabeza Hotel: With a guest rating of 9.2, the Morabeza Hotel is a charming 4-star accommodation that seamlessly combines business and leisure. Located in the heart of Santa Maria, this hotel also boasts direct access to the beach, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking for a relaxing seaside retreat. The hotel's inviting atmosphere and attentive service ensure a comfortable stay, whether for business or pleasure. Guests appreciate the balance of work and relaxation, with easy access to local attractions and pristine beaches.
• Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive: The Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa is a luxurious 5-star all-inclusive resort that promises an indulgent holiday experience, boasting a guest rating of 9.0. Situated in Santa Maria, this property features unlimited food and drinks, along with a plethora of recreational options. Guests can enjoy activities such as yoga, tennis, and water fitness classes, all included in their stay. With direct beach access and an array of adventure sports nearby, this resort is tailored for those seeking both relaxation and excitement in a vibrant setting.

Where to stay in Santa Maria

Discover the charm of Santa Maria, Cape Verde, where pristine beaches and vibrant culture await. Relax at luxurious beach resorts or enjoy a budget-friendly getaway in this friendly village. Stroll along the stunning shoreline, indulge in local cuisine, and explore the lively atmosphere that defines Santa Maria. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, this coastal gem offers a unique blend of experiences for every traveller.

• Sal: As a vibrant city and a popular tourist destination, Sal boasts stunning beaches and a lively atmosphere. Located on the island of the same name, Santa Maria is the heart of Sal, known for its beautiful sandy shores and inviting waters. The city experiences consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, with peaks from January to March, making it perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, exploring local markets, and soaking up the sun on the picturesque beaches. Key attractions include the scenic lookout points and the bustling dock port, where you can experience the local culture and lifestyle.
• Murdeira: Just a short distance from Santa Maria, Murdeira is a quaint village that offers a more tranquil beach experience. Approximately 9.7km away, this charming spot is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The village sees consistent visitor numbers, especially from January to March. While there are fewer activities than in Sal, the serene beaches and stunning coastal views make it a delightful getaway. The local dock port adds to the picturesque charm, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Verde.
• Beirona: Located 9.7km from Santa Maria, Beirona is a quaint village that offers a unique blend of beach and cultural experiences. With moderately seasonal visitor numbers peaking from December to February, Beirona provides a quieter, more authentic taste of Cape Verdean life. The village's historic charm is complemented by its beautiful beaches and the nearby dock port. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and history while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery, making it a perfect stop for those wanting to explore beyond the tourist hotspots.

Things to do in Santa Maria

Santa Maria, on the island of Sal in Cape Verde, offers a delightful blend of beach and city experiences. Visitors can enjoy vibrant local markets, swim in pristine waters, and explore the area's best beachfront locations. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on a city tour to discover local attractions and hidden gems that showcase the charm of this coastal town. It's a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

Shopping

In Santa Maria, you can explore local shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Praia Shopping, about 24.1km away, where you'll find a variety of international brands and local products for a broader shopping experience.

Recreation

The Spa at Melia Dunas offers rejuvenating treatments, including massages and facials, in a tranquil setting. Relax by the pool, indulge in holistic therapies, and enjoy stunning ocean views that enhance your wellness journey.

Experience the serene atmosphere of the Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria’s wellness centre, featuring a sauna, steam room, and a range of beauty treatments, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Engage in yoga sessions on the sandy beaches of Santa Maria, where the sound of waves complements your practice, promoting relaxation and mindfulness amid breathtaking sunsets.

Take part in water sports at Santa Maria Beach, from kite surfing to paddleboarding, ensuring an exhilarating blend of adventure and fitness against a stunning backdrop.

Adventure

Experience windsurfing at Ponta do Leme, where you can glide over crystal-clear waters and harness the trade winds. For an adrenaline rush, try quad biking through the island's rugged terrain, exploring its stunning landscapes and hidden gems.

Nightlife

In Santa Maria, the vibrant nightlife buzzes with energy at places like Café del Mar, known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning ocean views. The Pirate's Cove offers a lively scene with music and dancing, perfect for a fun night out with friends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria

• 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 December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Santa Maria about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save some money by combining your Santa Maria hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Maria

Santa Maria, on the island of Sal in Cape Verde, is perfect for beach, cultural, and city-themed holidays. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, explore the vibrant piazza, or stroll along the picturesque jetty. Notable attractions include Praia de Santa Maria, which offers both relaxation and local culture, ensuring a memorable experience for all travellers seeking sun and adventure.

• Santa Maria Beach: Experience the stunning sandy shores of Santa Maria Beach, a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. With its vibrant beach vibes, it's an ideal location to relax while soaking up the sun or enjoying water sports.
• Santa Maria Town Square: Immerse yourself in the local culture at Santa Maria Town Square, a charming piazza filled with lively atmosphere. Here, you can explore local shops, savour traditional cuisine, and soak in the city vibes that reflect the heart of Cape Verde.
• Santa Maria Pier: Stroll along Santa Maria Pier, where luxury meets relaxation. Enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, unwind with a drink, or take part in various water activities that cater to both budget and luxury travellers.

Best time to go to Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria is dependent 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.

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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria

To reach Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde, you can fly into Sal Island (SID-Amilcar Cabral Intl.), situated 16.1km away. Notable hotels nearby include the Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa, and the Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria, both offering all-inclusive options. Transportation from these hotels to the airport includes shuttle services that can be requested, typically available 24 hours, with applicable fees. Alternatively, you can consider Boa Vista Island (BVC-Aristides Pereira Intl.), located 51.5km away, with hotels like VOI Praia de Chaves Resort. For further options, Sao Nicolau Island (SNE-Preguica) is 146.4km away, featuring accommodations such as Farinha de Pau - Eco Rural Project.