Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
medium
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Ponta Preta: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +24.0°C, warms up to +27.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Ponta Preta: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 2.5 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Ponta Preta: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — medium. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals.
Ponta Preta: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Ponta Preta: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in January. It ends in March. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Ponta Preta: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Ponta Preta: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, strong currents. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Ponta Preta: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Ponta Preta: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Ponta Preta: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Ponta Preta Beach Club, Restaurants in Santa Maria. Cuisines available: Cape Verdean, International. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Ponta Preta: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Sunglasses, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, Water.
Ponta Preta: when is the best time to swim?
Best time for surfing is January to March when waves are biggest. For walks — morning or evening when it is cooler.
Ponta Preta: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not swim in non-designated areas due to strong currents. Do not leave litter. Follow nature reserve rules.
Ponta Preta: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Ponta Preta: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for experienced surfers and kitesurfers seeking powerful Atlantic waves, and for lovers of secluded walks on wild beaches. Not suitable for families with small children and inexperienced swimmers — strong currents and high waves make swimming dangerous.
Ponta Preta: what makes this beach unique?
One of Sal-s most famous beaches for surfing and kitesurfing with powerful Atlantic waves up to 6 metres, hosting GKA World Cup stages. Scenic sand dunes and wild nature.
Ponta Preta: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Huge wide beach with golden sand, Crystal-clear water, Scenic sand dunes, Excellent conditions for surfing and kitesurfing, Secluded wild atmosphere, Birdwatching in the dunes, Beautiful sunsets. Cons: Powerful Atlantic waves, unsafe for swimming, Strong rip currents even in shallow water, No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure (one bar), Can be windy, No natural shade.
Ponta Preta: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Santa Maria, Sal Dunes, Ponta do Sinó Nature Reserve, Santa Maria Salt Ponds. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Ponta Preta: how do I get to the city of Mindelo?
The beach is located near the city of Mindelo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Mindelo.