Search Santa Maria hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Next weekend
In two weeks

Filter by

Guest rating

Selecting then applying a filter from this group will update the results on a new page

Property class

Our top choices for Santa Maria hotels

Royal Horizon Beijo Mansão - Ponta Sino

Royal Horizon Beijo Mansão - Ponta Sino
5.0 star property
Santa Maria
The price is NZ$620
includes taxes & fees
27 July - 28 July
Royal Horizon Beijo Mansão - Ponta Sino

Melia Tortuga Beach

Melia Tortuga Beach
5.0 star property
Sal
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (232 reviews)
"Room facilities were basic but good value for money. "
United Kingdom
Paul
The price is NZ$488
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Melia Tortuga Beach

Melia Laguna Beach Resort - Adults Only

Melia Laguna Beach Resort - Adults Only
5.0 star property
Sal
7.0 out of 10, Good, (2 reviews)
"Die Platzverhältnisse im Restaurant sind knapp! Atmosphäre Kantine! Personal gibt sich Mühe aber bei vollem Hotel etwas hektisch! "
Switzerland
Ursula
The price is NZ$467
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Melia Laguna Beach Resort - Adults Only

Hotel Riu Funana - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Funana - All Inclusive
5.0 star property
Sal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (165 reviews)
"very nice place"
United States
Joao
The price is NZ$518
includes taxes & fees
13 July - 14 July
Hotel Riu Funana - All Inclusive

Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort

Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort
5.0 star property
Sal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (350 reviews)
"Delicious food nice staff "
United States
Wendy
The price is NZ$398
includes taxes & fees
9 July - 10 July
Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort

Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive

Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive
5.0 star property
Sal
7.2 out of 10, Good, (190 reviews)
"Lovely place, lovely staff great selection of food etc"
United Kingdom
Emma-Jayne
The price is NZ$371
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive

Hotel Central Santa Maria

Hotel Central Santa Maria
3.5 star property
Sal
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (56 reviews)
"Staff was great and friendly, location was great. Just a few blocks from the beach and the boardwalk."
United States
Mark
The price is NZ$168
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Hotel Central Santa Maria

Hotel Sobrado

Hotel Sobrado
4.0 star property
Sal
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (99 reviews)
"A great, breakfast very good, amazing bed, awesome shower, reception staff great"
Australia
Garth
The price is NZ$207
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Hotel Sobrado

Branco Suites

Branco Suites
4.5 star property
Sal
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (37 reviews)
"Ideally located / very clean / SUPER SWEET STAFF !!!"
France
Julia
The price is NZ$183
includes taxes & fees
9 July - 10 July
Branco Suites

Hotel Da Luz

Hotel Da Luz
3.5 star property
Sal
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (87 reviews)
"Breakfast (they started charging for the egg), hot water in the shower and smell of mold on the room"
United States
Julia
The price is NZ$183
includes taxes & fees
5 July - 6 July
Hotel Da Luz

Sol Dunas Family Fun

Sol Dunas Family Fun
4.0 star property
Sal
7.0 out of 10, Good, (2 reviews)
"Trevligt poolområde och bra frukost. Trevlig personal, men lite enformig middag på kvällen. "
Sweden
Pär
The price is NZ$380
includes taxes & fees
13 July - 14 July
Sol Dunas Family Fun

Hotel Pontao

Hotel Pontao
3.0 star property
Sal
7.6 out of 10, Good, (115 reviews)
"Close to the city center and beaches. Good breakfast. Good value without being luxury"
Belgium
Annick
The price is NZ$192
includes taxes & fees
9 July - 10 July
Hotel Pontao

Melia Llana Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive - Adults Only

Melia Llana Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive - Adults Only
5.0 star property
Sal
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (167 reviews)
"The Level upgrade is worth it. The staff were super friendly. A great stay overall"
United Kingdom
Francis
The price is NZ$505
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Melia Llana Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive - Adults Only

Hotel Riu Cabo Verde - Adults Only - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Cabo Verde - Adults Only - All Inclusive
5.0 star property
Sal
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (97 reviews)
"The staff the RIU offer and the location were great."
United States
Remo
The price is NZ$568
includes taxes & fees
14 July - 15 July
Hotel Riu Cabo Verde - Adults Only - All Inclusive

BIA D'Olaf Apartments

BIA D'Olaf Apartments
2.0 star property
Santa Maria
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (4 reviews)
"Apartment was beautiful, great location, upstairs to a really nice cafe. Host was very friendly!"
United Kingdom
Leah
The price is NZ$172
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
BIA D'Olaf Apartments

Hotel LIVVO Budha Beach

Hotel LIVVO Budha Beach
4.0 star property
Sal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (168 reviews)
"Lovely hotel with great views and friendly staff. Big rooms with stunning setting. "
United Kingdom
Inez
The price is NZ$316
includes taxes & fees
31 July - 1 Aug
Hotel LIVVO Budha Beach

Ocean Suites

Ocean Suites
3.5 star property
Sal
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (73 reviews)
"Loved the location and closeness to the beach and shopping. Lots of restaurants to choose from but most of the time defaulted to the Oceans Cafe for the service, the entertainment, the food and the awesome staff"
United States
Elsa
The price is NZ$270
includes taxes & fees
8 July - 9 July
Ocean Suites

Marialva Tropical T1

Marialva Tropical T1
3.0 star property
Santa Maria
The price is NZ$193
includes taxes & fees
14 July - 15 July
Marialva Tropical T1

Antonio Sousa Beach 2 Bedroom Apartment

Antonio Sousa Beach 2 Bedroom Apartment
4.0 star property
Sal
Antonio Sousa Beach 2 Bedroom Apartment

Atlantic Sal Hostel

Atlantic Sal Hostel
2.0 star property
Sal
6.6 out of 10, (27 reviews)
"It’s was good hostel nice people working there "
United States
Ismail
The price is NZ$250
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Atlantic Sal Hostel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Santa Maria attractions

Learn more about Santa Maria

Pristine white-sand beaches invite you to surf, swim, and sunbathe along Santa Maria's vibrant coastline. Join a catamaran tour to spot sea turtles or head to Kite Beach where instructors help beginners master windsurfing.

A sandy beach with palm trees and a clear blue sky.

Top Santa Maria Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Santa Maria

More cheap accommodation in Santa Maria

Find out more about Santa Maria

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Maria boasts beautiful sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the lively atmosphere with friendly locals, bustling markets, and unique cultural events.
  • Delicious Seafood: Savour fresh seafood at seaside cafés, offering a taste of local culinary delights.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy various activities suitable for all ages, making it perfect for families.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Santa Maria

Discover the charm of Santa Maria in Sal, Cape Verde, where a variety of accommodations await to suit every traveller's needs. From welcoming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, you'll find options perfect for a beachside family getaway or an adventurous holiday. Enjoy the local hospitality and explore glowing guest reviews to find the ideal spot for your stay. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a tranquil retreat, Santa Maria has the perfect place for you.

  • Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort: This 5-star resort epitomises luxury and adventure, boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Located in Santa Maria, it offers direct beach access, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking an exhilarating vacation. With a range of adventure sports available, guests can indulge in activities such as surfing, windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. The resort's focus on recreation ensures a vibrant atmosphere for those looking to explore both land and sea.
  • Morabeza Hotel: Rated at 9.2 out of 10, this 4-star hotel combines comfort with a pet-friendly policy, making it an appealing option for travellers who wish to bring their furry companions along. Situated in close proximity to the beach in Santa Maria, the Morabeza Hotel allows pets, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. Guests can enjoy a relaxing beachside experience while benefiting from the hotel’s attractive amenities and attentive service.
  • Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa - All Inclusive: This 5-star all-inclusive resort is ideal for families, offering a plethora of services and amenities to enhance your stay. With a focus on family-friendly activities, including a water park and children's club, guests can enjoy unlimited food and drinks along with various recreational options such as volleyball, yoga, and entertainment. Located in Santa Maria, the resort's direct beach access and family-oriented facilities create a lively yet relaxing environment for all ages.

Where to stay in Santa Maria

Santa Maria, a charming village on Sal Island, offers an unforgettable beach getaway. With stunning sandy shores and luxurious resorts, it's perfect for both relaxing and budget-friendly vacations. Explore the vibrant local atmosphere, where friendly locals welcome you to experience the unique culture. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the beach or indulging in fresh seafood at a seaside café, Santa Maria promises a delightful escape filled with unforgettable memories.

  • Sal: Sal is a stunning island city that attracts visitors year-round with its beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. Santa Maria, nestled within Sal, is a vibrant hub for tourists seeking sun, sand, and fun. The city is known for its lively public market and excellent swimming spots, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration. Key highlights include the breathtaking beaches, scenic lookouts, and the bustling dock port where you can immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine.
  • Murdeira: Just 9.7km from Santa Maria, Murdeira is a charming village that offers a more laid-back experience. With its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind. The village sees a steady flow of tourists, particularly from January to March. Visitors can enjoy serene beach strolls and the picturesque dock port, making it a great spot for a relaxing day away from the busier tourist areas.
  • Beirona: Located 9.7km from Santa Maria, Beirona is a quaint village that beautifully showcases Cape Verdean culture. With its moderate seasonal visitor pattern, Beirona is especially popular from December to February. The village offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and stunning beach views, with highlights including a historic village ambiance and a lovely dock port. This destination is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in local traditions while enjoying the scenic coastal landscapes.

Things to do in Santa Maria

Shopping

In Santa Maria, you can enjoy local shops and stalls offering vibrant souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Espargos Market, about 24.1km away, where you can find traditional goods and fresh produce, giving you a taste of local life.

Recreation

At the Zen Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments that incorporate local ingredients, ensuring a unique experience. Nearby, the Beachfront Yoga Studio offers calming sessions with stunning ocean views, allowing you to connect with nature while enhancing your wellness journey.

Adventure

Explore the stunning waters of Santa Maria with kite surfing lessons, where you can catch the wind and ride the waves. For an adrenaline rush, try quad biking across the island’s rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Morabeza Hotel’s Beach Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails by the ocean. For dancing, head to Disco Bounty, known for its lively atmosphere and local DJs spinning tunes until late.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria

To save money on your trip to Santa Maria, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June or September for lower accommodation prices. Utilize free attractions like Santa Maria Beach and Shark Bay Beach for enjoyable activities without spending a dime. For transport, walking is the most economical option, while taxis and buses are available for longer distances. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Remember, Sunday stays are generally cheaper than Thursdays, enhancing your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Maria are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Santa Maria about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Maria is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Maria is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can narrow your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Santa Maria hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Maria

Santa Maria in Cape Verde is perfect for a beach-themed getaway, offering stunning sandy shores and vibrant city life. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the picturesque piazza, the lively jetty, and the beautiful Praia de Santa Maria. This destination caters to those seeking a mix of beach relaxation, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.

  • Santa Maria Beach: Enjoy the tranquil beach vibes at Santa Maria Beach, where soft sands meet azure waters. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding, this beach is a local favourite for its picturesque views and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Santa Maria Town Square: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture at Santa Maria Town Square. This lively piazza is a hub of local life, featuring shops, restaurants, and street performances, offering a taste of Cape Verde's rich heritage.
  • Santa Maria Pier: Experience the luxury of coastal relaxation at Santa Maria Pier. Stroll along the jetty, enjoy scenic views, and perhaps indulge in some fresh seafood at nearby eateries, making it a lovely spot to unwind.

Best time to go to Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. March is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February70.0°F (21.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
March69.8°F (21.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
April70.5°F (21.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June72.9°F (22.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July74.8°F (23.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August77.7°F (25.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September79.7°F (26.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November77.0°F (25.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December74.1°F (23.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria

Flying into Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Sal Island (SID-Amilcar Cabral Intl.) is situated 16.1km away, with excellent hotels such as Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria and Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort also located 16.1km from the airport. Transportation options include 24-hour airport shuttles available on request. Alternatively, Boa Vista Island (BVC-Aristides Pereira Intl.) is 51.5km away, featuring hotels like Hotel Riu Palace Boavista, just 1.6km from the airport. This airport also provides easy access to the nearby VOI Praia de Chaves Resort, located 3.2km away, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Maria?
The best area to stay in Santa Maria is along the main beachfront and the streets immediately behind it, particularly around Rua 1 de Junho.

This area is the heart of Santa Maria and where you'll find most of the hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's very walkable, with the main pedestrianised street, Rua 1 de Junho, leading directly to the iconic Santa Maria Pier. The pier is a hub of activity, especially in the mornings when the local fishermen bring in their catch.

Couples looking for a relaxing beach holiday will find this area ideal. Many hotels offer direct beach access or are just a short stroll away, allowing for easy enjoyment of the white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters. You'll find plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars great for sunset drinks.

For those interested in water sports like kitesurfing or windsurfing, the eastern end of Santa Maria beach, towards Kite Beach, offers dedicated centres and more consistent winds.
When is the best time to go to Santa Maria?
The best time to go to Santa Maria, Cape Verde, is during the dry season, which runs from November to June.

During these months, you'll experience consistently warm temperatures, typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C, with plenty of sunshine and very little rain. This period is ideal for enjoying the stunning beaches and water sports that Santa Maria is known for. The constant gentle breeze makes the heat very comfortable, great for relaxing by the ocean.

Couples looking for a sunny getaway will find these months great for a relaxing holiday. You can enjoy long days on the white sandy beaches, take leisurely strolls along the pier, or dine al fresco in the evenings without worrying about the weather. The conditions are also excellent for boat trips and exploring the island.

For those interested in water activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing, the months between November and February offer the best wind conditions.
Where can I find the best nightlife in Santa Maria?
Santa Maria's nightlife is centred around a few key areas, offering a mix of relaxed bars and more energetic spots.

The main street, known locally as "Rua 1 de Junho," and the surrounding blocks are where you'll find many of the town's establishments. There are several bars with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a drink and listen to live music, often featuring local Cape Verdean styles. You'll also find some places that turn into late-night venues with DJs playing a mix of international and local hits.

Along the beach, especially near the main pier, there are a few beach bars that stay open into the evening. These spots offer a more relaxed setting, often with sand underfoot, and are good for sundowners and casual drinks. Some of these beach bars also host live music performances or DJ sets later in the night.

For those looking for a more dedicated club experience, there are a couple of venues slightly off the main street. These places typically open later and feature DJs playing a range of music, from African rhythms to mainstream pop.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Santa Maria.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Santa Maria with Expedia?
One Key™ – Expedia's free travel rewards programme – gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Santa Maria hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Santa Maria?
Prices for hotels in Santa Maria often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$172 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.