Weather lowdown
May is a popular time to visit Boa Vista, Cape Verde, when the island enjoys warm and sunny weather. During this month the average temperature is 24°C, created by highs of 27°C at the warmest part of the day and lows of 20°C after sunset. The average temperature rises the closer to the end of the month you get at the beginning it's around 23°C, whilst at the end it's closer to 24°C. With only 9mm of rainfall across one day for the whole month, it's safe to leave your umbrella at home during your holiday. On the other hand, you can expect loads of sun, which ten hours of sunshine each day and an average sea temperature of 22°C.
Where to stay
Families and couples looking for self-catering accommodation in Boa Vista should take a look at Por do Sol. Located on the seafront at Cabral Beach, this hotel provides all sorts of accommodation, with everything from modern studios to spacious townhouses. The list of onsite facilities is extensive and covers bar, restaurant, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and free parking.
Ca'Nicola is perfect for holidaymakers looking for beachside accommodation. Located only 50 metres away from the ocean, this complex comprises of 27 apartments, each of which features a living room, well-equipped kitchen and one or two bedrooms. There is a number of onsite amenities available for guests to enjoy, including restaurant, excursion booking and 24-hour reception.
If you'd like a little bit of luxury during your holiday, consider staying at Casa Velha Resort. Here you'll find a handful of top-end apartments, all of which are comfortable and beautifully decorated. There is also a small list of facilities available onsite, such as relaxing terrace, café and reception.
When it comes to all-inclusive accommodation, it doesn't get much better than Iberostar Club Boa Vista. Situated only a stone's throw away from the beach, this hotel comprises of superior and basic rooms, many of which come with sea views. There are plenty of onsite amenities available to guests, including aqua gym, games room, swimming pools, entertainment programme, kids' clubs, bars and restaurants.
Parque das Dunas Village is ideal for holidaymakers looking for somewhere to stay during their holiday in Boa Vista. Comprising of comfortable and spacious rooms equipped with everything you'll need during your visit, this hotel offers great value for money. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the numerous facilities which include bar, restaurant, swimming pool and 24-hour reception.
Hit the beach
João Barrosa Beach is famous throughout the world for its turtles. During the nesting season, this beach is home to thousands of nesting loggerhead turtles who visit late at night to lay their eggs. When they're hatched, the baby turtles scramble down to the sea, guided by the moonlight alone. Because of the animal activity, this beach isn't suitable for water sports or games during the summer months.
Make the most of the sunshine and spend a day at Ervatao Beach. One of the most unspoilt and secluded beaches in Boa Vista, this beach can only be reached in an off-road vehicle, but the journey is more than worth the effort. Just like João Barrosa Beach, Ervatao Beach is also known for being one of the world's most important nesting sites for loggerhead turtles and is where a great deal of research and conservation work takes place.
Where to eat & drink
Seafood lovers won't want to miss the chance to dine at Porton di nos Ilha. Known as one of the best places to have lobster in Sal Rei, this restaurant overlooks the bay and boasts a menu full of Portuguese and Brazilian treats. The atmosphere is really relaxed and the local music is sure to make you feel at ease.
Whether you want a romantic evening meal or a fun night out with friends, Coyote Bar and Restaurant is the place to go. Found on the outskirts of the village, this restaurant offers a varied international menu, with dishes such as lasagne, cachupa and lobster available. The owner of the restaurant is very friendly and will go out of her way to ensure you have a perfect evening.
Bar Restaurant Lima is a great local bar to visit. This building is home to a restaurant which can be found upstairs and a small bar which is located downstairs. Thanks to the low prices, Bar Restaurant Lime is popular with locals and visitors alike.
A small bar owned by locals, Ka Djinha is located within Sal Rei and is very popular on evenings with the local community. Reggae lovers will feel right at home here the bar pays homage to Bob Marley and frequently plays the music that he was known for.
Things to do
If you're thinking about signing up for a tour during your holiday in Boa Vista, check out Baobab Tour. This excursion company offers a superb range of days out with something for the whole family to enjoy. The guides only take out small groups on each excursion, so you're guaranteed a personal experience whichever itinerary you choose. Whether you want to go island sightseeing or watch turtles on the beach, you're sure to find the perfect excursion with Baobab Tour.
Animal lovers won't want to miss the opportunity to go horse riding on the beach. This 90-minute excursion takes you around different sections of the Ribeira where you can take in the beautiful coastal scenery of Boa Vista. You'll see some fantastic sights along the way, so don't forget to bring your camera.
