Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
black
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
2 000 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 — moderate. Average wave height — 1.5 m.
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 — black. Texture — medium. Beach length — 2 000 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: Restaurants in Porto Inglês. Cuisines available: Cape Verdean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Ponta Preta: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Cash, Water.
Ponta Preta: when is the best time to swim?
Morning water is calmer and fewer people. Best time for surfing is January to March.
Ponta Preta: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Be careful when swimming due to possible strong currents.
Ponta Preta: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Ponta Preta: who is this beach best for?
Suitable for travellers seeking an authentic wild beach with dark sand and walking opportunities, and for surfing enthusiasts. Not suitable for families with small children and those seeking developed infrastructure.
Ponta Preta: what makes this beach unique?
Huge wild beach with dark volcanic sand and scenic cliffs on the south-west of Maio island, popular with surfing and walking enthusiasts.
Ponta Preta: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Huge wide beach with golden sand, Crystal-clear water, Dark volcanic sand, Scenic cliffs, Secluded atmosphere, Excellent walking conditions, Birdwatching. Cons: Dark volcanic sand, Can be windy, Limited infrastructure, No lifeguards, Waves can be strong, No natural shade.
Ponta Preta: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Porto Inglês, North Maio Natural Park, Ponta Preta Cliffs. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Ponta Preta: how do I get to the city of Porto Inglês?
The beach is located near the city of Porto Inglês. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Porto Inglês.