Sal has become a vibrant, year-round, beach destination with a wide range of hotels and plenty of accommodation to choose from.
The two main places to stay are Santa Maria, which is close to the beaches, and Espargos, which is slightly cheaper and nearer to the airport.
Santa Maria
The Budha Beach Hotel ****
Budha Beach Hotel offers something a little different.
As the name suggests, the atmosphere is one of peace and tranquility. It’s unique architecture and furnishings create a Zen feeling.
The 23 rooms are of a high standard and offer breathtaking views of the sea.
The restaurant serves Mediterranean and Asian cuisine.
The hotel has an infinity swimming pool which merges with the sea, with the added luxury of Balinese beds.
Ideal for a relaxing stay and just a 10-15 minute walk to Santa Maria, if looking for a night out in town.
Hotel Sabura ****
A boutique hotel with 56 standard rooms and eight suites.
All lower rooms lead onto the pool area. They are air conditioned, with a TV and phone.
There is easy access to Santa Maria village and the beach. A restful and clean setting.
Hotel Club Crioula ***
The Crioula Clubhotel is located directly on the long beach of Santa Maria and has a huge pool area.
All 244 rooms offer WiFi, furnished balconies and TVs with satellite channels. Guests will also find refrigerators, free bottled water and ceiling fans.
There are two restaurants, two central bars and a pool bar.
This is a family friendly hotel with activities centred around the hotel and on the beach.
Hotel Morabeza ****
The word ‘Morabeza’ is Portuguese for ‘hospitality’ and this hotel lives up to its name.
Elegant and with excellent facilities, this establishment has evolved through three generations to become one of Cape Verde’s most desirable hotels.
This is a charming 4* hotel near the village centre that provides direct access to the extensive beach of Santa Maria.
The hotel has a wide range of accommodation options, all with ensuite bathrooms.
There are three restaurants which serve both Cape Verde and international dishes.
The facilities are comprehensive, with spacious relaxation areas, three bars, three swimming-pools, a games room, two tennis courts and more.
Hotel Dunas de Sal ****
This is a contemporary, modern and elegant hotel.
As you would expect from a hotel of this standard, the well-equipped rooms are en-suite with private balconies and have air conditioning, satellite TV, room safe, hairdryer and minibar.
There are two beautiful swimming pools and an outdoor cafe adds to the sophisticated ambience.
A communal lounge with widescreen TV is available for guests’ convenience. For those who favour a bit more activity, the hotel has a small gym and hosts occasional yoga classes.
A particular feature of the Dunas de Sal is that it is home to its own scuba diving centre, which organises trips to the best of Sal’s dive sites. Snorkeling excursions are also a possibility.
Situated just one street from the lovely Santa Maria Beach, the hotel is close enough to allow easy access to the sea, but also a little secluded from the busy beach life.
With its calm and relaxed atmosphere it is the ideal place for those looking for a restorative and relaxing destination.
