Windsurfing in Cape Verde, with the Cape Verde experts.

Cape Verde is a captivating Atlantic archipelago of 10 islands just off the coast of West Africa, offering a perfect mix of reliable trade winds, sunshine, and unique culture. A short flight from the UK, these islands are a winter windsurfing paradise, with their prime season running from November to April. While all the islands have their own charm, Sal and Boa Vista stand out as the very best locations for windsurfing, offering superb conditions, easy beach access, and well-established watersports centres.

Sal is the undisputed hub for windsurfing in Cape Verde. Santa Maria beach provides wide sandy shores and consistent cross-shore winds suitable for every level, from beginners to advanced riders chasing speed or freestyle tricks. The vibe in Santa Maria town is relaxed yet lively, with beachfront restaurants, local bars, and excellent accommodation such as the Morabeza Hotel, perfectly placed for those wanting quick access to the water. Sal also has the best flight connections, making it an ideal base for a dedicated windsurf holiday or as the starting point for exploring other islands.

Boa Vista rivals Sal for windsurf conditions but with a more unspoilt, authentic feel. Here you’ll find vast, untouched beaches, flatwater lagoons ideal for beginners, and small wave spots perfect for improving your skills. The town of Sal Rei offers a laid-back atmosphere, boutique hotels, and a chance to experience a quieter side of Cape Verde while still enjoying top-quality windsurf facilities.

For those who want to add a touch of adventure and culture to their trip, combining Sal or Boa Vista with other islands is highly rewarding. Santiago offers dramatic volcanic scenery, lush green valleys, and great hiking opportunities, perfect for a short side trip. São Vicente is the cultural heart of Cape Verde, with its lively music scene and vibrant nightlife in Mindelo, which can be easily combined with a ferry visit to Santo Antão, renowned for its spectacular mountain landscapes and hiking trails. For something truly unique, a visit to Fogo provides breathtaking volcanic scenery, coffee plantations, and the chance to hike its impressive crater, followed by sampling the island’s famous wine.

By basing your trip on Sal or Boa Vista for world-class windsurfing and adding a few days on one or two other islands, you can create a holiday that balances thrilling time on the water with authentic cultural experiences and incredible natural beauty. With our first-hand expertise, trusted local partners, and tailor-made approach, we’ll design a Cape Verde windsurf holiday that showcases the very best of the islands.