Sal – Ponta Preta
Cape Verde · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Surfing
- Best winds NE (trade wind)
- Level Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Nov–May
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About this spot
Ponta Preta is the best-known wave spot in Cape Verde, on the west side of Sal just below Santa Maria. A long, walling right-hand point break over volcanic reef delivers 200 to 400 metre rides when the swell lines up. The NE trade wind blows offshore here year-round and keeps the waves clean – the basis for the smooth wall the spot is famous for.
The strongest season runs from November to April, when North Atlantic winter lows send long groundswells with 14–18 second periods and the trade averages 15–25 knots. Best conditions come with NW-N swell and mid to high tide. When is the best time to visit Ponta Preta? November to February for the biggest, cleanest waves. The point break has hosted several PWA wave-windsurf events and is firmly reserved for advanced wave riders, wave windsurfers and wave kiters.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, February is the windiest month: on 93 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the north-east. The most reliable period runs from December to May. The least wind is in August (19 %). The water ranges from about 22 to 27 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
75 %
| 14 kn | NE | 24 °C | 24 °C |
| February |
93 %
| 16 kn | NE | 23 °C | 23 °C |
| March |
81 %
| 15 kn | NE | 22 °C | 22 °C |
| April |
76 %
| 14 kn | NE | 23 °C | 23 °C |
| May |
79 %
| 14 kn | NE | 24 °C | 24 °C |
| June |
68 %
| 13 kn | NE | 25 °C | 24 °C |
| July |
21 %
| 10 kn | NE | 25 °C | 25 °C |
| August |
19 %
| 10 kn | NE | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| September |
43 %
| 11 kn | NE | 28 °C | 27 °C |
| October |
57 %
| 12 kn | NE | 28 °C | 27 °C |
| November |
67 %
| 13 kn | NE | 27 °C | 26 °C |
| December |
75 %
| 14 kn | NE | 25 °C | 25 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from NE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
Mid to high tide gives the cleanest walls; at low water the reef is dangerously shallow. The biggest, long-period swells arrive November to February. Reef booties and local knowledge are essential – check with locals first.
⚠︎ Hazards
Shallow, sharp volcanic reef right under the wave; real injury risk at low tide and on a wipeout. Strong current along the point. Only with wave experience and local knowledge.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Nearest surf school
Trips & camps
Kite and wave trip to Sal, Cape Verde
Trips to Sal for wave kiters; wind per the page December to April. Per the operator not suitable for beginners or riders without a reliable water start.
Kitecollege Cape Verde on Sal
by Kitecollege (Surfschule Norddeich)
Kite course week at the Robinson Club Cabo Verde on Sal (adults only) for kiters with some experience; wind season November to May according to the provider.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sal – Ponta Preta suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Sal – Ponta Preta is a spot for Pro (water: Waves). The nearest surf school is about 7 km away.
Which wind works at Sal – Ponta Preta?
Best with wind from NE (trade wind). In the windiest month (February), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the north-east.
When is the best time for Sal – Ponta Preta?
The best months are considered to be Nov–May. According to the wind statistics, February has the most wind days (93 % of days).
How warm is the water at Sal – Ponta Preta?
Over the year about 22 °C in March to 27 °C in September (model data).
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