What to Wear in Sal

General Style Tips

Our advice would be to travel light, and we mean really light – all you need during the day is beach wear. For the evenings again keep it light and simple.
If you are staying in an all-inclusive hotel then there is more scope to dress up so you may want to pop a dress and accessories in, but otherwise dressing up really doesn't happen here – everyone is very casual.
All year round wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat, along with mosquito repellent.
A lightweight day sack will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
With its stunning sandy beaches and myriad ocean-based activities, Santa Maria on the main tourist Island of Sal is becoming increasingly well known as the beach and water sports destination.
It is possible to tour the island by hiring a car or taxi, or for the more adventurous why not jump on a local bus (called ‘Aluger') – great fun, quick and cheap!
For those staying in all-inclusive hotels it's very tempting to stay by the pool and never leave the complex but if you make the effort to go out into the local towns you will be rewarded; Cape Verdeans are wonderfully warm and friendly people.
Take a trip into Santa Maria and while you're there try the fabulous real Italian ice cream.
Also see What to Wear in Cape Verde

Clothing Tips for Women

The roads and paths are very uneven so flat shoes are far more suitable than heels when out and about. We love Hotter shoes, for total comfort along with style. Or why not try the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.
A few well chosen pieces of costume jewellery will transform any outfit.
A pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit.

There are no specific things to bring to your attention, check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.

Through October, November, December, January, February and March Sal is windier, which is why it attracts so many wind and kite surfers at this time of year but it is still hot. However, we would recommend that you pack a cardigan, fleece or pashmina for the evenings as the wind can make it feel cooler once the sun goes down.
You really do not need to worry about taking rainwear at all, whatever time of year you visit as you are very unlikely to see any. However, if there are tropical storms they tend to happen in August and there really is nothing to do but find a great bar and chill out and wait for it to pass.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android