Boa Vista Island

Atalanta Beach / Cabo de Santa Maria

"The iconic rusty hull of the shipwreck, standing against the crashing waves of the Atlantic."

About this Paradise

A dark sand beach famous for the atmospheric shipwreck of the Spanish cargo ship "Cabo Santa Maria", which ran aground in 1968. It is a place of dramatic, haunting beauty and also an important sanctuary for sea turtles.

How to Get There: Requires a 4x4 vehicle through the north desert roads.

Services and Facilities

This is a completely wild and untouched beach. It has no commercial infrastructure. Please remember to bring water, food and take all your trash back with you.

Conscious Tourism & Safety

To ensure that Cape Verde remains "Sabe Sabe" (wonderful) for future generations, respect sea turtle nesting grounds and never litter on the beaches. Remember that Atlantic currents can be deceptive — always respect beach flag indicators and local advice.

Beach Characteristics

Sand Type

Mixed Sand with Volcanic rocks

Water Color

Deep Blue

Wind Level

High

Frequence / Crowd Level

Low

Ideal For

Photography History Wildlife Watching

Island Guide Boa Vista Island

Infinite Dunes and Virgin Beaches of Wild Beauty

Local Accommodation

Nearby Hotels and Stays

Discover where to stay to have the best close-up experience with the fantastic Atalanta Beach / Cabo de Santa Maria. From ecological lodges to premium resorts.

A 15 minutos a pé do naufrágio

75€ / night

★ 4.3 (30)

Ocean Dream BeachHouse Boa Vista

An ecological and minimalist guesthouse with decor inspired by driftwood and shipwrecks. Offers guided hikes to watch sea turtle nesting.

Accommodation Highlights

Local Breakfast Hiking Guide Reception Wi-Fi Campfire Area

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A 20 minutos de jipe

110€ / night

★ 4.5 (78)

Hotel Dunas Boavista

Scandinavian design fused with Creole warmth. A luxurious and comfortable starting point on the outskirts of Sal Rei, ideal for exploring the north coast.

Accommodation Highlights

Scenic Pool 4x4 Jeep Rental Free Wi-Fi Fish Restaurant

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25-minute jeep to Atalanta Beach

75€ / night

★ 8.4 (30)

AQUÁRIO Hotel

Family hotel in the heart of Sal Rei, minutes from the pier and north-coast excursions. Warm, authentic atmosphere ideal for visiting Atalanta Beach and the Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck.

Accommodation Highlights

Restaurant Terrace Wi-Fi Air Conditioning Near town centre

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In Sal Rei; base for Atalanta and Cabo Santa Maria

65€ / night

★ 8.6 (155)

B&B Sereia Azul Boa Vista

Charming bed & breakfast in Sal Rei with Creole breakfast and intimate vibe. Excellent value for independent travellers exploring the north coast, Atalanta and Boa Vista dunes.

Accommodation Highlights

Breakfast Terrace Wi-Fi Family Atmosphere Sal Rei centre

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