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
steep
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
10 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
required
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Praia de São Filipe: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Praia de São Filipe: 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 São Filipe: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — steep. The shallow area extends for 10 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special water shoes (aqua shoes) are required — the bottom has rocks, corals or sea urchins. The steep entry requires extra care, especially with children.
Praia de São Filipe: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — black. Texture — coarse. Beach length — 2 000 metres.
Praia de São Filipe: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May, June. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is June. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Praia de São Filipe: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Praia de São Filipe: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Sharks (rare), Strong currents, Sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Praia de São Filipe: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Praia de São Filipe: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Praia de São Filipe: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: São Filipe Town Restaurants. Cuisines available: Cape Verdean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Praia de São Filipe: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Water, Water shoes, Cash, Camera.
Praia de São Filipe: when is the best time to swim?
Best time to visit is May to October. Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents.
Praia de São Filipe: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not swim in the ocean due to strong currents. Do not leave trash. Respect local residents.
Praia de São Filipe: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for those wanting to see a dramatic black volcanic beach landscape against a colonial town backdrop. Not suitable for swimming due to dangerous currents.
Praia de São Filipe: what makes this beach unique?
Dramatic contrast between black volcanic sand and blue ocean against a colonial town with colourful houses. One of the longest beaches on Fogo island.
Praia de São Filipe: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Dramatic black sand, Scenic town views, Colonial architecture, Photogenic location, Authentic atmosphere. Cons: Not suitable for swimming, Dangerous currents, Black volcanic sand, No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure.
Praia de São Filipe: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: São Filipe Historic Centre, Fogo Volcano. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Praia de São Filipe: how do I get to the city of Praia?
The beach is located near the city of Praia. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Praia.