Santa Maria Holidays

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Your Santa Maria Holiday

When you reserve a holiday package to Santa Maria, all the planning is done in advance. This gives you more time to uncover some of the things that characterise this seaside city, such as its laid-back lifestyle, beaches and welcoming locals. Like to explore your surroundings? Santa Maria Beach, Santa Maria Pier and Shark Bay Beach are a few of the top places to visit during your trip to Santa Maria. Whoever you're going away with and whatever your budget, your dream Santa Maria holiday is just a few clicks away with Expedia.

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Santa Maria Holiday

Things to do in Santa Maria

Santa Maria, located on the island of Sal in Cape Verde, is perfect for beach and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Santa Maria Beach with its soft sands and vibrant atmosphere. Exciting tours offer a glimpse into local culture, while the public market is a great spot for authentic experiences. For those looking to unwind, beach fantasies await, and party tips ensure a lively night out. Enjoy the blend of relaxation and adventure in this charming destination.

Shopping

The Santa Maria Municipal Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with local goods and crafts, perfect for souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Vila Verde Shopping Centre for a wider selection of shops and dining options, ensuring a delightful shopping experience.

Recreation

In Santa Maria, the Zen Spa provides rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional Cape Verdean practices, set against tranquil ocean views. For relaxation, try the Salinas Beach Yoga Centre, where you can enjoy sunrise yoga sessions on the beach, harmonising mind and body with the soothing sound of waves.

Adventure

In Santa Maria, explore the stunning underwater world while snorkelling at Ponta Preta, known for its vibrant marine life. Experience the thrill of kitesurfing on the beautiful beaches, or take a quad biking adventure across the island’s rugged landscapes, creating unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise.

Nightlife

In Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde, immerse yourself in vibrant nightlife at local bars and clubs along the beachfront. Experience live music at venues like Club Praia, or enjoy cocktails at the lively Moby Dick. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a mix of tourists and locals enjoying the warm evenings.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Santa Maria

Santa Maria offers a delightful blend of beach, culture, and city experiences perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the stunning beaches, visit the charming jetty, and stroll through the lively piazza. These attractions cater to travellers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion. Don't miss the chance to engage with the local atmosphere and enjoy the vibrant community that Santa Maria has to offer.

  • Santa Maria Beach: Experience the stunning golden sands and crystal-clear waters of Santa Maria Beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach vibes create a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Verde.
  • Santa Maria Pier: Stroll along Santa Maria Pier, where luxury meets budget-friendly options. Enjoy the picturesque views of the ocean and indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, all while soaking up the relaxing ambiance of this charming jetty.
  • Santa Maria Town Square: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Santa Maria Town Square. This lively piazza is filled with local shops, cafes, and cultural events, offering a true taste of city life and the opportunity to interact with friendly locals.

Best time to go to Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Maria falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Maria falls in March, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February70.0°F (21.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
March69.8°F (21.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
April70.5°F (21.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June72.9°F (22.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July74.8°F (23.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August77.7°F (25.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September79.7°F (26.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November77.0°F (25.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December74.1°F (23.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Maria

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Maria.
  • Consider traveling to Santa Maria during the low season (May to June and September) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Santa Maria Beach Holiday

Get set to live out your beach fantasies on your upcoming Santa Maria holiday. Embark on a romantic walk, soak up the beautiful ocean views and collect pretty seashells during your trip to Santa Maria. Situated just 2 kilometres from the city centre, Kite Beach is the place to be for many travellers. Browse our Santa Maria holiday packages and watch your travel budget stretch further!

Things You Should Know About Santa Maria

  • If you want that beach lifestyle, have a look at our Santa Maria beach hotels. Beautiful water views and refreshing sea air — what more could anyone ask for?
  • Have a look at Hotel Central Santa Maria and Pensao Nha Terra. These popular apartments could just be ideal for your holiday in Santa Maria.
  • There are lots of activities that keep the 17,200 or so residents of Santa Maria occupied. A quick browse of our Santa Maria things to do page will show you everything this place has to offer.
  • Santa Maria Town Square, Viveiro Botanical Garden & Zoo and Viveiro Botanical Garden & Zoo are some popular attractions that should be on your travel agenda. With our Santa Maria holiday deals, you'll have more money in your back pocket to explore.

Santa Maria Essential Information

Language
Portuguese
Currency
Cape Verdean escudos
Local Welcome
Olá
Local Goodbye
Adeus
Closest Airport
Amilcar Cabral Intl. Airport (SID)
Population
17,200
Max Temp Winter
24ºC
Max Temp Summer
24ºC
Top Sights
Santa Maria Beach, Shark Bay Beach and Kite Beach

Our pick of the best Santa Maria Hotel Deals

Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive

Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive

5 out of 5
Rua Andrade Corvo Sal
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$436 per night from 11 Mar to 12 Mar
AU$436
11 Mar - 12 Mar
includes taxes & fees
7.2/10 Good! (174 reviews)
Room was dated. TVs dud not work. Room was never cleaned. Towels never changed, Beds never made! Too many kids!

Reviewed on 25 Feb 2026

Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria - All Inclusive

5 out of 5
Cabocan Lote E2, Santa Maria Sal Cape Verde
The price is AU$527 per night from 26 Mar to 27 Mar
AU$527
26 Mar - 27 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (85 reviews)
Schöner Aufenthalt, überall sehr aufmerksames Personal!

Reviewed on 3 Mar 2026

Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria - All Inclusive
Agua Hotels Sal Vila Verde Resort

Agua Hotels Sal Vila Verde Resort

3.5 out of 5
Santa Maria Sal
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$97 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
AU$97
1 Apr - 2 Apr
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (132 reviews)
Very tired and needed a good clean or better still a remodel. Food was poor. Pool was nice. TV was very limited. Room was cold.

Reviewed on 4 Mar 2026

Agua Hotels Sal Vila Verde Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What to do in Santa Maria

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.