Cape Verde · Cape Verde
Sao Vicente / Salamansa, Cape Verde
16kts
NNE · Wind season
Consistent NE trades 317 days/year power a genuine beginner launchpad. Flat water entry, then proper Atlantic conditions. Currents demand respect.
- 16kts
- Average wind
- 317
- Windy days / year
- 08:00–11:00
- Peak wind hours
- NNE
- Primary direction
Location
- Nearest airports
- Airport - Praia
- Coordinates
- 16.9055, -24.9442
Monthly wind profile (peak window)
Jan
94%
rideable
15.8 kts
Feb
93%
rideable
17.6 kts
Mar
100%
rideable
18.1 kts
Apr
95%
rideable
18 kts
May
100%
rideable
18.7 kts
Jun
98%
rideable
18.5 kts
Jul
69%
rideable
16.7 kts
Aug
68%
rideable
15.4 kts
Sep
75%
rideable
15.8 kts
Oct
82%
rideable
16 kts
Nov
83%
rideable
15.5 kts
Dec
84%
rideable
16.4 kts
Best wind directions
- NNE
- NE
- ENE
- N
- ESE
Water conditions
- Ocean
- Flat Water
Best months
Hazards
- Strong currents and undertow common in Atlantic waters near Cape Verde
- Occasional sharp rocks and reef sections along the coastline
- Limited rescue infrastructure in remote areas
- Intense sun exposure at equatorial latitude
What that means for you
- Reef booties recommended at low tide
- Walk gear out — don't drag downwind across rocks
- Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
Amenities
- Basic beach facilities and local food vendors
- Nearby accommodations in São Vicente towns
- Kite rental shops catering to tourists
- Small restaurants and cafes within walking distance
Local tips
Cape Verde's year-round wind consistency makes it excellent for progression and skill development. Check local weather forecasts as occasional calms occur, and bring reef booties for rocky launch areas.
Launch & beach
Flat water conditions make this ideal for launching and learning. The consistent NE-ENE trade winds provide reliable conditions with multiple launch directions available depending on beach orientation.
Local etiquette
Respect local fishermen and their nets, especially during early morning hours. Keep clear of swimming areas and communicate with other kiters in the water.
What to wear
A 3mm wetsuit provides adequate protection for year-round tropical conditions, though many riders go without in warmest months. Rash guards and board shorts are practical for sun protection.
What to pack
Kite sizes
- 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
- 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
- 8–10 mstrong days, 20–28 kn
Boards
- Twintip — universal, bring one
What to wear (by climate)
- In the water
- Boardshorts or bikini with a rashguard or sun shirt.
- On land
- Light cotton; pack a rain jacket if the season overlaps rains.
Derived from the spot's latitude (tropical zone) and current season.
Right of way & manners
- 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
- 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
- 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
- 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
- 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.
Spot guide
The Experience
Salamansa works because the entry is honest: flat water launch, then Atlantic conditions that teach respect. You get people riding instead of stuck in shorebreak. It's not a protected lagoon. Once committed, you're managing real water dynamics.
The beach is functional. Vendors, basic facilities, nearby towns with food and accommodation. Reef booties are mandatory—sharp rocks in the launch zone will wreck feet and boards. Local rental shops cover gear if you're traveling light.
Wind & Conditions
317 windy days annually. NE-ENE trades deliver 16 knots on average, with variation either side—light days exist, so do proper blowers. March through May peaks, but the whole year runs consistent. No off-season here.
Multiple beach orientations let you angle into different wind directions depending on what you're working on. That matters when drilling specific skills.
Water & Hazards
Flat launch zones. Beyond the immediate break: strong currents and undertow are constant. Not extreme, but you respect them. Remoteness cuts both ways—fewer crowds, thinner rescue infrastructure. Bring a partner, file a float plan, read conditions before going out.
Reef sections are obstacles, not features. Route around them. Board and ecosystem both lose direct contact.
Who Belongs Here
Progression-focused riders. You're here to build skills in consistent wind, not chase novelty. You handle basic logistics and minor friction. A remote Atlantic spot won't cushion you, and you're okay with that.
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