Choosing the Best Island for Your Family Holidays in Cape Verde
When planning family holidays in Cape Verde, choosing the right island is key to a smooth, fun-filled trip that fits your family’s needs.
Sal Island: Perfect for First-Time Visitors
Sal is the go-to island for families new to Cape Verde. It offers easy flight access and is home to the famous Santa Maria beach—calm, sandy, and perfect for kids. Sal is well-known for its family resorts where kids’ clubs, pools, and entertainment keep everyone happy. Families love the balance here between relaxing beach days and fun excursions like salt lake visits or gentle boat trips. If you want convenience and a mix of activities, Sal’s your best bet.
Boa Vista Island: Laid-Back with Nature and Space
If your family prefers a quieter holiday, Boa Vista is a fantastic alternative. This island has fewer crowds and some of the longest beaches with impressive sand dunes that spark kids’ imaginations. It offers a more relaxed vibe—ideal for families who enjoy nature walks, dune buggy rides, and peaceful sunsets. Resorts here are family-friendly but tend to be more low-key compared to Sal.
Other Islands: Culture and Adventure for Older Kids
For families with older children ready for something a bit different, Santiago and São Vicente offer rich cultural experiences and adventure. Santiago has vibrant local markets and historical sites, while São Vicente boasts lively music scenes and island festivals. These islands are best suited for families interested in exploring Cape Verde’s culture beyond the beach.
Quick Comparison Table
| Island | Flight Access | Beach Quality | Family Resorts | Family Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sal | Frequent direct flights | Safe, sandy, calm | Many large all-inclusive resorts | Balanced activity & relaxation |
| Boa Vista | Limited direct flights | Long, natural beaches | Some family-friendly options | Laid-back and nature-focused |
| Santiago | Good connections | Rocky and historical | Few family resorts | Cultural, best for older kids |
| São Vicente | Less common flights | Rocky, pebbly | Limited family resorts | Artsy and adventurous |
Choosing the right island makes all the difference for family holidays in Cape Verde. Whether you want easy access and sandy shores or quiet nature and cultural richness, there’s something here for every family’s pace and interests.
Top Family-Friendly Resorts and Hotels in Cape Verde
When booking family holidays in Cape Verde, all-inclusive resorts with excellent kids’ facilities are the top choice. Look for kids’ clubs, multiple pools (especially with splash parks or shallow areas), family suites, buffet dining options, and fun evening entertainment that keeps everyone happy.
Leading Resort Picks
| Island | Resort Name | Key Family Features | Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sal | Melia Dunas | Large kids’ club, splash park, baby facilities | Luxury | Close to Santa Maria beach |
| Sal | Riu Palace Cabo Verde | Multiple pools, family suites, evening shows | Upscale | Well-rated for family-friendly services |
| Sal | Hilton Cabo Verde Sal | Kids’ activities, buffet dining, pool areas | Luxury | Beachfront, great for younger kids |
| Boa Vista | Iberostar Club Boa Vista | Kids’ club with daily programs, pools | Mid-to-Luxury | Quiet setting, excellent for relaxed stays |
What to Look for in Family Resorts
- Age-specific kids’ clubs: Options for toddlers, older kids, and teens.
- Baby-friendly facilities: High chairs, cribs, babysitting services.
- Evening entertainment: Mini discos, family shows, cultural performances.
- Beach proximity: Easy access for quick trips between rooms and sand.
- Variety of pools: Separate kids’ pools or water parks help keep little ones entertained safely.
Budget vs. Luxury Options
- Budget: Smaller family hotels or guesthouses might lack big kids’ clubs but can offer great value and authentic local charm.
- Luxury: Resorts like Melia Dunas and Hilton provide all the extras, from childcare to multiple dining options and spacious family suites.
Picking the right resort means balancing convenience, activities for kids, and a comfortable setting for parents. Cape Verde’s best family resorts tend to be on Sal and Boa Vista, where most all inclusive family resorts Cape Verde bookings happen.
For more ideas on family-friendly destinations with excellent beach resorts, you might enjoy exploring family-friendly shores in Spain for comparison tips.
Best Things to Do with Kids in Cape Verde
Cape Verde offers plenty of fun family activities that keep both kids and parents entertained. Beach days are a must, with safe swimming spots, gentle waves perfect for little ones, and wide sandy shores ideal for building sandcastles. The calm waters at Santa Maria beach on Sal island are especially popular for family holidays in Cape Verde.
For more adventure, families love taking catamaran cruises—great for spotting dolphins and enjoying the open sea together. Turtle watching is another fantastic seasonal activity, often available on Boa Vista and Sal. Don’t miss floating in the salty Salinas lake, which is fun and safe for kids. For older children, dune buggy rides across the epic Boa Vista dunes or visits to iconic shipwreck sites add excitement to any holiday.
Many family resorts feature kids’ clubs, splash pools, mini discos, and various sports activities to keep young guests busy without leaving the property. For a taste of local culture, short visits to vibrant markets or listening to traditional Cape Verdean music introduce children to island life. Trying local dishes like cachupa is also a hit, with many places offering kid-friendly options.
If you want to explore even more family-friendly water activities or dive into local culture elsewhere, useful insights on water sports in nearby destinations might inspire your trip planning.
Practical Tips for Traveling with Children to Cape Verde
When planning family holidays in Cape Verde, timing is key. The best time to visit is from November to April, offering peak sun, warm weather, and fewer crowds. Avoid the rainy season to keep your beach days dry and fun.
Flights and Transfers
Look for direct flights to Cape Verde’s main family-friendly islands like Sal and Boa Vista to make travel easier with kids. Airport transfers tend to be straightforward, but booking in advance helps reduce stress. To manage jet lag, keep your schedule flexible on arrival and encourage sunlight exposure during the day.
Health and Safety
- Vaccinations: Check with your doctor well ahead for recommended shots.
- Sun Protection: Cape Verde has strong UV rays, so pack plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Mosquito Care: Bring insect repellent and consider mosquito nets especially if you plan excursions outside the resorts.
- Travel Insurance: Always include coverage for health and unexpected trip changes.
- Food and Water: Stick to bottled water and avoid raw foods to prevent tummy troubles with children.
Packing Essentials
For family activities in Cape Verde, packing smart helps:
- Water shoes for rocky beaches or coral-friendly areas.
- Snacks for picky eaters or longer excursions.
- Baby gear like travel cots or lightweight strollers is advisable if you’re traveling with toddlers.
Money and Practicalities
Cape Verde accepts euros, making it easy to budget. Embrace a “No Stress” attitude – things move slower here, so a relaxed approach helps everyone enjoy. While resorts are very safe, always supervise kids carefully when exploring outside.
For additional tips on managing travel with family, this guide on travel tips for first-time visitors offers great advice tailored to Cape Verde and similar destinations.
By preparing well, your family holiday in Cape Verde will be as smooth as the beautiful sandy beaches you’re about to enjoy!
Family Holiday Budget and Booking Advice
When planning family holidays in Cape Verde, understanding typical costs helps keep your budget on track. All-inclusive family resorts in Cape Verde usually cover meals, drinks, kids’ clubs, and some activities, making them great value. Expect to pay more for extras like excursions, special beach gear rentals, or spa treatments. Booking early can often secure lower prices and better room options, with many resorts offering low deposits to hold your reservation.
To get the best deal, watch out for early bird discounts or last-minute offers, especially for stays between November and April—the prime winter sun family holidays season. Always check recent guest reviews for honest feedback on family-friendliness, kids’ clubs, and facilities. Real family experiences can reveal if the resort lives up to its promises.
Common pitfalls include overbooking excursions, which might be tricky with kids, so plan activities carefully. Also, managing expectations around Cape Verde’s wind—especially on Sal and Boa Vista—is important; some days the breeze can be strong, but it usually cools the heat nicely. Finally, factor in airport transfers and travel insurance for smooth logistics.
With some smart planning, your Cape Verde family holiday will be both enjoyable and budget-conscious. For tips on how to prepare for family travel, including packing and health advice, consult our detailed guide on how to prepare for your next family holiday.
