The Island of Endless Beaches, Warm Breezes & Hidden Wonders
Tucked away in the Atlantic Ocean, just a few hours from mainland Europe, Boa Vista is one of Cape Verde’s most enchanting islands. Known for its miles of untouched beaches, peaceful vibe, and year-round sunshine, it’s the perfect escape if you’re looking for space to breathe, explore, and relax.
Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet beach break or an adventurous island experience, here’s everything you need to know about beautiful Boa Vista, and why it should be on your travel radar.
Where is Boa Vista?
Boa Vista (which means “good view” or “beautiful view” in Portuguese) is part of the Cape Verde group of islands, located off the west coast of Africa. It’s the third largest island in the country and one of the most popular for visitors.
Flights from Europe land directly at Aristides Pereira International Airport, and from there, the whole island is yours to explore.
Beaches Like No Other
Boa Vista is best known for its incredible beaches, some of the most stunning and unspoiled in the world. Think soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and barely another person in sight.
- Santa Monica Beach – a 22-kilometre stretch of paradise (yes, 22!)
- Praia de Chaves – ideal for sunsets and long walks
- Estoril Beach – perfect for swimming and family-friendly fun
- De Carquejinha – 8km of untouched, beautiful sandy beach ideal for swimming
- Lacacão: – 6km of pristine, unspoiled beach fronting Tarafo Bay’s first phase hotel
Whether you’re sunbathing, strolling, into adventure, or just enjoying the view, the beaches here are the main attraction, and they’re simply unforgettable.
Nature & Wildlife
Boa Vista is a nature-lover’s dream. The island is home to loggerhead sea turtles, which come ashore between June and October to nest. Guided nighttime tours let you witness this magical process in a respectful and eco-friendly way.
You might also spot:
- Humpback whales (in season, usually Feb–May)
- Colourful birdlife in the island’s salt flats and oases
- Ghost crabs (also known as sand crabs) on the many beautiful beaches
- The surreal beauty of the Viana Desert, a Sahara-like stretch of golden dunes formed by wind-blown sand
Boa Vista’s landscapes are raw and wide-open, making it feel truly wild and free.
Culture, History & Local Life
While Boa Vista is quieter than other islands like Santiago or São Vicente, it has a rich cultural charm. The main town, Sal Rei, is small but full of character, with pastel-coloured buildings, welcoming cafés, music drifting through the streets, and a slow, relaxed rhythm.
Here, you can:
- Try traditional Cape Verdean dishes like cachupa and grilled seafood
- Enjoy live local music (morna and funaná)
- Shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs
The people of Boa Vista are warm, friendly, and proud of their island, and visitors are always made to feel welcome.
Things to Do
There’s more to Boa Vista than beaches. Here are some popular activities:
- Quad biking or 4×4 tours across the desert and sand dunes
- Windsurfing and kitesurfing – the island is great for water sports
- Snorkelling and diving – explore underwater life and shipwrecks
- Day trips by boat – enjoy the coast from a different angle
- Game fishing
- And coming soon at Tarafo Bay – World-class championship golf!
Or just… do nothing. That’s perfectly fine too!
Why choose Boa Vista?
Boa Vista is perfect for:
- Beach lovers
- Nature enthusiasts
- Couples looking for romance
- Families who want a safe, easy-going holiday
- Anyone in need of serious rest and sunshine
It offers the kind of laid-back, low-stress escape that’s hard to find these days, but with enough adventure and beauty to keep you inspired.
What will Tarafo Bay offer?
Whether you come for a weekend escape or an extended stay, Tarafo Bay will be so much more than just a place to sleep; it will be a place to live, explore, and truly unwind. Guests will enjoy championship golf courses, state-of-the-art sports facilities, serene spa and wellness retreats, family-friendly amenities, and oceanfront dining. Designed with every kind of traveller in mind, Tarafo Bay will be surrounded by nature and powered by sustainability. It is set to become the island’s most exciting new resort, where affordable luxury will meet the warmth and charm of Cape Verde.
Ready to Discover Boa Vista?
Whether you’re coming for the golden sands, the peaceful pace of life, or the chance to reconnect with nature, beautiful Boa Vista offers something truly special. To learn more about investing in the future at Tarafo Bay, click here.
