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
required
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 500 m
Frequently asked questions
São Francisco Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, 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.
São Francisco Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 1.2 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
São Francisco Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — medium. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special water shoes (aqua shoes) are required — the bottom has rocks, corals or sea urchins.
São Francisco Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — medium. Beach length — 1 500 metres.
São Francisco Beach: 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.
São Francisco Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
São Francisco Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Sharks (bull, tiger — rare), Jellyfish, Mosquitoes. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
São Francisco Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
São Francisco Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
São Francisco Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Bar Montrond, Espaço Son. Cuisines available: Cape Verdean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
São Francisco Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Water, Water shoes, Cash, Camera.
São Francisco Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time to visit is morning or evening. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Swimming is not recommended.
São Francisco Beach: 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.
São Francisco Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
São Francisco Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for those wanting to see a wild Atlantic beach with dark volcanic dunes and crystal-clear water, 10 minutes from Praia. Not suitable for swimming due to strong currents.
São Francisco Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Wild dark volcanic dunes rising behind the shoreline create a dramatic contrast with the turquoise water. One of the most accessible wild spots near Praia.
São Francisco Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Wild volcanic dunes, Crystal-clear water, Secluded location, Scenic views, Close to Praia (10 minutes). Cons: Not suitable for swimming, Strong currents, No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure, Windy.
São Francisco Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Cidade Velha, Praia. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
São Francisco Beach: how do I get to the city of Cidade Velha?
The beach is located near the city of Cidade Velha. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Cidade Velha.