Sal is the main island for tourism and most visitors to Cape Verde will arrive at the international airport there. A 20-minute drive south takes you to Santa Maria, where you will find a magnificent beach of fine white sand stretching the length of the coast and sea a glorious shade of turquoise.
Hotels, all-inclusive resorts and self-catering apartments line the bay, surrounded by flower-filled gardens. All have sparkling pools and offer an array of water sports, sailing and fishing trips.
Santa Maria is little more than a straggling village but is very laid back. There are a collection of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. The island itself is very arid and barren and has few highlights.