Come January, the average temperature for Santa Maria sits around 22°C (about 71°F), very nice and pleasant to enjoy this resort on the island of Sal. Thanks to the nice weather all year round, travel into and out of the resort is easy when traveling through Amilcar Cabral International Airport.
One of the largest cities in the Cape Verde chain, the resort's average high during this month is 24°C (around 75°F), a drop from the highs seen in December. The low temperature has also dropped to 19°C (about 66°F). These temperatures are unheard of during the winter in the UK, making this the ideal place to escape the cold and dampness of Europe.
During the day, you'll want to wear shorts or capris and short-sleeved shirts. You'll also want to bring a hat or sunglasses, as the sun shines for 10 hours a day which is amazing for 'winter'. The hat and sunglasses will come in handy for the wind too, as there is an 80 percent chance of having a windy day while you're there.
Don't worry about bringing an umbrella, raincoat or poncho; the average rainfall is only 2mm. That small amount of rain falls over an average of three days, so typically the rain that falls is very light and short-lived. The chance of a rainy day is only four percent and the chance of a cloudy day is 18 percent so it is unlikely to affect your trip.
Be sure to bring a swimsuit when visiting this month as the sea temperature averages around a very warm 23°C (about 73°F). The warm sea and warm air make this a perfect month to try swimming and watersports.
In fact, the highest recorded temperature for this resort this month was a very warm and balmy 30°C (around 87°F), while the lowest recorded temperature was 10°C (about 50°F), very chilly for this area and unlikely to occur very often.
Where to Stay
When visiting Santa Maria in January, opt for the beachfront Hotel Oásis Belorizonte to take advantage of the warm, dry weather. The hotel is made up of bungalows right on the beach with king size beds, satellite television, air conditioning, phone, mini-bar and separate bath with tub. For meals, the all-inclusive resort features the Santa Maria Restaurant, Flor del Sal Restaurant, Beach Bar and Salinas Restaurant. Other amenities include three swimming pools, Jacuzzi, playground, kids club and tennis court.
If your family needs more space and privacy, the Apartmento Capeverde has two bedrooms, one bathroom and can sleep up to six people. Located on the ground floor, the apartment has a fully-equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower, satellite television and safe. One bedroom has a double bed and the other has two twin beds, and there is also a double sofa bed in the living room. The apartment's patio has direct access to the pool.
The Porto Antigo Residence has a beautiful setting overlooking the ocean and offers clean and comfortable rooms. All the rooms have a private bathroom with bath or shower, fully-equipped kitchen with fridge, separate seating area, and balcony. Other hotel amenities include free Wi-Fi, swimming pool right right next to the beach, free parking and a tour desk to help you plan your activities while on the island.
Eating and Drinking Out
Serving Italian favorites and classic dishes, Marea Restaurant is located near the center of the city. The menu includes dishes made from fresh and local ingredients; guests can also choose from rotating daily specials from the chef. If you want to enjoy the lovely Santa Maria weather, choose a seat in the restaurant's outdoor patio.
The Ocean Café Pub is part of the Ocean Café Suites and located in the town square of Santa Maria. The pub is known for its "taglieri", which is a large plate full of cheeses, cold meats, focaccia and bread sticks. The taglieri dish also comes in a fish variety. Other specialties include the fish and chips and hamburgers. To complement your meal, choose a cocktail, beer or wine from the Ocean Café Pub's drink menu.
Chez Pastis is the perfect spot for a special night out, offering gourmet cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Known for serving some of the best Brazilian beef on the island, the restaurant also caters to vegetarians and those with gluten allergies and intolerances. Enjoy your meal in the dining room or dine under the stars and the natural arbor of the restaurant's patio.
Things to Do
Even in the middle of winter, visitors to Santa Maria in January can enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding excursions. Santa Marilha Horse Excursions take you on a one to two-hour tour of the beaches of the island. The tours are catered to beginner, intermediate and advance riders and the price includes hotel transfers, helmets and insurance. Private tours and romantic sunset rides are also available.
Hit the high seas around the island on a catamaran tour with Sea Turtle Catamarans. The company operates three catamarans and one speed boat. Different catamaran excursions exist including whale and dolphin watching, adult-only trips with champagne and music, family-friendly outings, snorkeling tours and all-day sailings.
If you want to treat your feet while in Santa Maria, check out the Hug Bucket Fish Spa. While at the fish spa, thousands of Garra Rufa, or doctor fish, nibble away at your feet, removing dead skin and giving you a natural pedicure. The spa also serves drinks, so you can relax in more than one way. Open every day but Sunday, the Hug Bucket Fish Spa is a great way to spend the afternoon.
Dates to Note
A local tradition little known in other parts of the world, Heroes Day is all about celebrating local heroes of Sal Island and it takes place in January each year. The celebration begins the night before with parties and fireworks. It continues the next day when families celebrate with food and music.
