Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
rocks
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
100 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
rocks
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
required
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Shark Bay: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +24.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Shark Bay: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Shark Bay: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 100 metres from the shore. Bottom — rocks. Special water shoes (aqua shoes) are required — the bottom has rocks, corals or sea urchins. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Shark Bay: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — rocks. Sand colour — grey. Texture — gravel. Beach length — 2 000 metres.
Shark Bay: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in September, October. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Shark Bay: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Shark Bay: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: lemon sharks. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Shark Bay: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Shark Bay: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Shark Bay: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: KaLika, Grog's Bar Restaurant, Cantinho D'Mari Lunguinha. Cuisines available: Portuguese, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Shark Bay: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Water shoes, Towel, Cash, Camera.
Shark Bay: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — beautiful sunsets.
Shark Bay: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Touching sharks and marine life is prohibited. Keep the beach clean.
Shark Bay: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Shark Bay: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for nature and ecotourism lovers wanting to see sharks in their natural habitat. Not suitable for families with small children or those seeking a comfortable beach holiday with infrastructure.
Shark Bay: what makes this beach unique?
Shark Bay is the only place in Cape Verde where you can wade into the water and observe juvenile lemon sharks in their natural habitat. It is a natural nursery where sharks find refuge from predators.
Shark Bay: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Unique opportunity to see sharks in their natural habitat, Crystal-clear water, Picturesque rocky coastline, Photo opportunities, Ecological experience, Affordable tour prices. Cons: Rocky seabed, water shoes needed, No infrastructure, No lifeguards, Limited time on site, Can get crowded due to tours, No toilets.
Shark Bay: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Pedra de Lume, Blue Eye (Buracona), Santa Maria. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Shark Bay: how do I get to the city of Espargos?
The beach is located near the city of Espargos. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Espargos.