Discover São Vicente

São Vicente (Portuguese for “Saint Vincent”) is one of the Barlavento Islands, the northern group within the Cape Verde archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, off the West African coast.

São Vicente, one of Cape Verde’s most popular islands, is a tropical gem offering something for everyone. With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and diverse activities, it’s no wonder that tourists flock here year-round. It is located between the islands of Santo Antão and Santa Luzia, with the Canal de São Vicente separating it from Santo Antão.The capital of São Vicente, Mindelo, is known as the cultural capital of Cape Verde. From the US or Europe it is easy to visit.

While Sal and Boa Vista are known for their resorts and beaches, São Vicente offers a more authentic glimpse into everyday life in Cape Verde. In Mindelo, you can explore bustling markets, interact with locals, and experience the island’s unique blend of African and European influences.
The island’s laid-back vibe and vibrant street life provide a stark contrast to the more tourist-centric atmosphere of Sal and Boa Vista. Traveling to São Vicente is an enriching experience, but it’s essential to be well-prepared for your journey.

Coast

São Vicente boasts some of Cape Verde’s best beaches. Beyond the popular Laginha Beach in Mindelo, you’ll find hidden gems perfect for adventure seekers and windsurfing fans. São Pedro is world-famous for speed windsurfing, especially from November to April. Sandy Beach in Calhau was even part of the European pro circuit in 1997. For a more relaxed swim, head to Baía das Gatas, a natural lagoon in the north, accessible by 4×4.

Cultural Mindelo

The capital of São Vicente, Mindelo, is known as the cultural capital of Cape Verde. People visit the city because of its exciting nightlife, with an incredibly high-quality offering of live music. Or for the events and festivals like Mindelo’s carnival, which is considered the best in the country.
Immerse yourself in the colorful city of Mindelo, known for its vibrant music scene and enchanting colonial architecture, while enjoying the seductive scent of local cuisine and swinging to the infectious beats of traditional morna music. Walk through the colonial buildings, visit the church, municipal and African markets and enjoy a panoramic view of the capital Mindelo.

Snorkeling with Turtles

Snorkeling with sea turtles São vicente island is undoubtedly one of the funniest experiences. The best time to swim with turtles in São Pedro, São Vicente, is during the summer months, from June to October. During this period, the water is warmer and calmer, which creates ideal conditions for spotting and swimming with sea turtles.

Mercado Municipal

A stay at Boa Mindelo Apartments isn’t complete without a visit to Mercado Municipal, Mindelo’s lively local market. From colorful stalls to the scent of Cape Verdean spices, it’s the perfect place to shop, stroll, and soak up island culture. Be sure to stop by Café Verde, located inside the market. Enjoy 100% Cape Verdean coffee, organic teas, fresh juices, salads, and sandwiches – all made with local ingredients and bottled water. Healthy, alcohol-free, and full of flavor.

Kalimba Beach

Looking for a refreshing drink with a stunning beach view? Head to Kalimba Beach Club, the most popular beach bar on Laginha Beach in Mindelo, São Vicente. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, a cold drink, or a cocktail, Kalimba offers the perfect beachfront experience.
You can also spend the whole day relaxing here. It’s the only spot on the beach with deckchairs available for rent right on the sand. It’s the ideal place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the island vibe.

Jetski Adventure

Discover the thrill of jet skiing in São Vicente! Ride across the crystal-clear waters of Porto Grande Bay or Laginha Beach and feel the adrenaline rush. Departing from the Marina of Mindelo or directly from the beach, you and your travel companion can enjoy a fast-paced, unforgettable experience along the coast. Perfect for adventure lovers!

Visit Santo Antão island

Combine your stay at Boa Mindelo Apartments, São Vicente with a visit to the nearby island of Santo Antão. Cape Verde’s greenest island and a hiker’s paradise.

Enjoy a scenic 1-hour ferry ride from Mindelo to Porto Novo, spotting dolphins and flying fish along the way. Relax with island music and stunning ocean views.

Discover Santo Antão’s rugged mountains, lush valleys, and natural wonders like Cova Natural Park and the Paúl volcano crater. Visit the charming village of Fontainhas and a traditional Grogue distillery to experience local culture.

Top Highlights of Santo Antão, Cape Verde

Ponta do Sol: The island’s first settlement and vibrant fishing village, famous for stunning ocean sunsets.
Paul Valley: The most popular hiking and sightseeing spot with terraced farms, mountain stays, and local restaurants.
Delgadinho Viewpoint: Breathtaking views along the Corda road between Ribeira Grande and Ribeira da Torre valleys.
Ribeira Grande: Santo Antão’s colonial capital with colorful murals, narrow streets, and authentic local life.
Tarrafal: The island’s only accessible black sand beach, perfect for relaxing in a small fishing village atmosphere.
Topa de Coroa: The island’s highest peak (1979m) and a challenging hike up a volcanic black sand slope.
Fontainhas: A picturesque cliffside village on the Ponta do Sol-Cruzinha hiking route.
Cova Volcano Crater: A fertile flat crater ideal for hiking and agriculture, with stunning viewpoints overlooking Paul Valley.
Xoxo: A photogenic spot near Ribeira da Torre with the charming Melicia bar and a refreshing natural pool.

How to Get to Santo Antão from São Vicente

The only way to reach Santo Antão is by ferry from São Vicente. Two ferry operators, Armas and CV Interilhas, run regular services between Mindelo (São Vicente) and Porto Novo (Santo Antão), with up to four crossings daily (Monday to Saturday):

Mindelo to Porto Novo: 07:00, 08:00, 14:00, 15:00
Porto Novo to Mindelo: 09:00, 10:00, 16:00, 17:00

Schedules vary slightly on Sundays.

A round-trip ticket costs approximately 1600 CVE (€/$15) per adult and is available for purchase at the Mindelo harbor. Don’t forget to bring your passport when booking.

Plan your ferry trip early to enjoy seamless travel between São Vicente and Santo Antão.

Monte Verde

São Vicente’s highest point is Monte Verde, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island—perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Another iconic landmark is Monte Cara, known for its unique shape resembling a face looking toward the sky.
The island’s volcanic origin is still visible, with well-preserved craters like the Viana volcano in the east and the Porto Grande Bay, a natural volcanic formation.

Le Scene Metalo

Metalo Restaurant is a must-visit dining experience in Mindelo. Enjoy live music every evening from Tuesday to Sunday, creating a vibrant and authentic atmosphere that perfectly complements your meal.

Whether you’re craving traditional Cape Verdean cuisine or tasty international options, Metalo delivers great food without breaking the bank.Visit Metalo for a memorable night out with fantastic food, lively music, and a welcoming ambiance.