Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
22 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Praia de Santa Monica: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +25.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Praia de Santa Monica: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 1.5 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Praia de Santa Monica: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Praia de Santa Monica: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — powdery. Beach length — 22 000 metres.
Praia de Santa Monica: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May. It ends in November. The best month for a holiday is November. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Praia de Santa Monica: 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.
Praia de Santa Monica: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Sharks (rare), Jellyfish, Sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Praia de Santa Monica: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Praia de Santa Monica: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Santa Monica Restaurants. Cuisines available: Cape Verdean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Praia de Santa Monica: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Food, Headwear, Comfortable shoes, Camera.
Praia de Santa Monica: when is the best time to swim?
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. Best time for walks is morning or evening.
Praia de Santa Monica: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Do not disturb turtles and their nests.
Praia de Santa Monica: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking solitude who are prepared for a long journey. Suitable for walks and photo shoots, but not for swimming due to strong currents.
Praia de Santa Monica: what makes this beach unique?
The beach was included in Travel Leisure magazine-s list of the 25 most beautiful beaches in the world in 2021, and is also an important nesting site for sea turtles.
Praia de Santa Monica: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: 22 km of white sand, One of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Complete solitude, Crystal-clear water, Turtle nesting site, Scenic dunes. Cons: No infrastructure — no cafes or toilets, No shade, Strong currents, swimming unsafe, Difficult to reach without 4x4, No lifeguards.
Praia de Santa Monica: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck, Viana Dunes. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Praia de Santa Monica: how do I get to the city of Sal Rei?
The beach is located near the city of Sal Rei. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Sal Rei.