Cabo Verde is a stunning archipelago of ten volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa, offering pristine beaches, vibrant Creole culture, and year-round sunshine. From the windswept dunes of Boa Vista to the lush mountains of Santo Antão, this island nation combines African and Portuguese influences with world-class water sports and authentic island hospitality.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Santa Maria Beach Swimming
The calm, shallow, turquoise waters at Santa Maria's protected beach make it ideal for children of all ages. The gradual sandy bottom is safe for young swimmers and the beach is well-patrolled. Beach umbrellas and sunbeds available for rent.
Duration: Half or full day
Pedra de Lume Salt Floating Experience
Children love the magical floating sensation in the hypersaline salt crater on Sal Island. The unusual buoyancy delights kids of all ages and the surrounding volcanic crater landscape is genuinely fascinating. Apply salt mud for a spa-like experience kids enjoy.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Shark Bay Snorkeling Tour
Guided snorkeling in the protected bay where juvenile lemon sharks can be safely observed in shallow water. Marine biologist guides explain shark behavior and ecology. One of Cabo Verde's most memorable wildlife experiences for older children and teenagers.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Viana Desert 4x4 and Sandboarding
A 4x4 safari through Boa Vista's extraordinary Saharan-like sand dunes followed by sandboarding down gentle slopes. The desert-meets-ocean paradox fascinates children and the sandboarding is accessible for all ages with basic coordination.
Duration: Half day
Whale Watching Tour (Feb-May)
Humpback whale watching tours from Santa Maria and Sal Rei offer high-probability sightings of mothers with calves during the migration season. Marine biologist guides explain whale biology in child-friendly terms. Life-changing wildlife experience for all ages.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Turtle Nesting Night Tour (Jul-Oct)
Intimate guided experience observing loggerhead sea turtles nesting on Boa Vista's beaches. Small groups accompanied by marine biologists explain the nesting process and conservation importance. An unforgettable nighttime wildlife encounter for older children.
Duration: 2-3 hours evening
Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck Visit
Boa Vista's famous rusted shipwreck beached on pristine white sand captures children's imaginations. 4x4 tour across desert tracks adds to the adventure. The contrast of rust-red hull against white sand and turquoise water creates stunning visual memories.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Mindelo City Walk and Market Visit
Explore Mindelo's colorful colonial streets, vibrant Municipal Market with tropical fruits, and harbor front where children can watch fishing boats. Try fresh fruit juices from market stalls and pastel de atum (tuna pastries) for an authentic cultural experience.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa
Cabo Verde's most acclaimed family resort with five pools including dedicated children's pool, excellent MiniMelia kids club (ages 4-12), beachfront location, and comprehensive entertainment program. All-inclusive option covers meals, snacks, and most activities for convenient family budgeting.
Family features: Kids club, children's pool, baby cots, children's menus at all restaurants, babysitting available, connecting rooms, water sports for older children
Barceló Cabo Verde
Boa Vista's premier family resort combining beach excellence with comprehensive family facilities. The kids club, mini-disco, water sports, and proximity to Chaves Beach make it an excellent all-round family choice. Direct beach access to one of Africa's most beautiful beaches.
Family features: Full kids club, family rooms, children's pool, animation team, mini-disco, multiple dining options with kids menus
Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort
International-standard resort on Santa Maria Beach with reliable family facilities and the consistency of the Hilton brand. The large pool complex and direct beach access give children plenty of space and activity. Connecting rooms available for families needing extra space.
Family features: Connecting rooms, family pool, beach access, kids menu, babysitting available
Tortuga Beach Resort, Boa Vista
A relaxed, friendly resort directly on Chaves Beach offering good value for families. The bungalow-style rooms feel more spacious and comfortable for family groups. Water sports facilities and beach access keep active families entertained throughout their stay.
Family features: Bungalow-style rooms, beach access, water sports, family dining, entertainment
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
All major resorts (Melia Dunas, Barceló, Hilton) have children's menus with familiar international options alongside local dishes
Pizza and pasta restaurants in Santa Maria like Angelo's Pizza are excellent for fussy young eaters
Fresh fruit from Mindelo Municipal Market makes excellent cheap healthy snacks for children - papaya, mango, and passion fruit are widely available
Fish market stall grilled fish is a safe and excellent introduction to Cabo Verdean food for older children - choose the fish together and watch it grilled
Carry bottled water at all times - tap water is not safe for children. Resort water is filtered but bottled is safest for young children
Most beach bar restaurants welcome families during the day - evening crowds and noise can overwhelm young children after 9pm
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen every 2 hours and dress children in UV-protective rash guards - the equatorial Atlantic sun is deceptively strong and burns happen very fast
Book all-inclusive resorts for the simplest family experience - meal flexibility and no additional costs significantly reduce holiday stress
Swim only at designated safe zones on resort beaches - currents on Boa Vista's Atlantic-facing shores are dangerous for children
Bring a full supply of any children's medications from home - basic items available but prescription medicines and specialist products are unavailable
Keep children in sight at all times on public beaches where there are no lifeguards
The July-October turtle nesting season is the most unique family experience Cabo Verde offers - time your visit to coincide if possible
Inter-island flights with children are quick (25-45 minutes) and manageable, making multi-island exploration realistic even with young children