Summary

Often known as one of the world’s top kiteboarding and windsurfing destinations, Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) also offers a variety of uncrowded surf spots for those looking to chase waves instead of wind.

This volcanic archipelago sits in the Atlantic Ocean, about 570 kilometers (350 miles) west of Senegal, and is made up of 10 islands, each exposed to different swell and wind directions. Surfing here is about adventure, variety, and escaping the crowds.

When to go

The best time to surf Cape Verde is from November to March with bigger and more consistent swells. During this season, winds will also be much stronger. From, April to October you will find less consistent waves but also more mellow winds.

Where to stay in Cape Verde

On Isla de Sal, where most surf spots will be found, the two best cities to establish yourself on a surf trip are Santa Maria or Palmeira. They both give you great access to several decent surf spots on the island.

Getting there

The best way to reach Cape Verde is to fly to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal Island, the primary surf hub. Most flights will come from Lisbon, Dakar or some other major European cities.

Safety/things to know

• Currency: Euro is widely accepted, but the official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo.

• Prepare for wind: Choose boards that paddle well and hold speed in wind-affected waves.

• Respect locals: Surf culture is still developing here—be friendly and respectful in the water.

Surf spots in Cape Verde

Ponta Preta

The most famous wave in Cape Verde. When it’s working, Ponta Preta is a world-class right-hander that peels over shallow reef with powerful, hollow sections.

• Wave direction: Right
• Bottom: Reef
• Best tide: Low to mid
• Skill level: Advanced
• Optimal swell: NW
• Optimal wind: E-NE (offshore)

Alibaba

A lesser-known but high-quality right-hand reef break. It’s less exposed to the wind than Ponta Preta and tends to hold more manageable conditions.

• Wave direction: Right
• Bottom: Reef
• Best tide: Mid to high
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
• Optimal swell: NW
• Optimal wind: E

Fontana

A fun, user-friendly left-hander near the town of Santa Maria. It’s much mellower than Ponta Preta and great for intermediate surfers.

• Wave direction: Left
• Bottom: Reef
• Best tide: Any
• Skill level: Intermediate
• Optimal swell: NW
• Optimal wind: E

Santa Maria

One of the most accessible surf spots in Cape Verde, offering mellow beach break peaks that can work when swells wrap around the island.

• Wave direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Sand
• Best tide: Mid to high
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
• Optimal swell: NW
• Optimal wind: E

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