THE LURE Two hours south of the Canary Islands and about 500 kilometres west of the coast of Senegal lies the desert island of Sal, one of ten idyllic islands in the Atlantic that make up the Cape Verde's.
CONDITIONS: The trades blow the whole year from the north, northeast and east, but are strongest in winter, averaging 20 knots compared to 15 knots in the summer. Winter is also the time for waves, and Sal is host to one of the world's very best wave riding spots, Punta Preta. The summer months, between May and August, see flatter water, lighter wind, and manageable shore-break.
WIND & WEATHER: The main kitesurfing season runs from October to May and the temperature averages 20 to 27°C. It can be little colder at night, though. Summers are really hot here, up to 30 to 40°C. Rain clouds are rare and rain is scarce.
WATER: The water never really gets cold here due to the proximity of the equator, averaging 23°C in the winter, and 26°C in the summer.
OFF THE WATER: Santa Maria may be small but it has a good choice of hotels and accommodation, each with its own style and the service is very friendly (if a little slow at times). Good choice of food for the size of the island and there's a handful of bars and nightclubs that are open late. The locals love to dance and have a great party spirit.
ACCOMMODATION: Sal4 Rent have a large selection of properties available to rent for both long and short term. They can also arrange your car hire and transfers to and from the airport.
Contact them by phone (00238) 242 1658, email
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or via their website www.aquisal.com
pool
dining room
view from bedroom
DON'T MISS: Deep Sea Fishing World Class breaks and novice wave spots African Art Shops
AIRPORTS: Amilcar Cabral International Airport (SID): 20 minutes drive from Santa Maria
