In late summer, the temperatures continue to rise in Santa Maria and the rainfall chances also increase. August sees an average temperature of 26°C (about 78°F), great weather for getting outside, seeing the island sites or relaxing on the beach. This month sees highs reaching a very warm 28°C (around 82°F), about one degree warmer than the highs for July. The lows drop down to a still-balmy 23°C (about 73°F).
With the warming temperatures, you'll want to pack accordingly, bringing short-sleeve shirts, shorts, skirts and capris. At night, you probably won't need a light jacket or sweater, unless you'll be directly on the beach where there's more of a breeze.
The number of hours of sunshine drops during this time too, to around 8 hours a day on average, which is still not bad. While not the rainiest month out of the year, August does see an average of 53mm of rainfall. The rain falls over six days, so you'll want to pack an umbrella, poncho or raincoat if traveling here during this time. Check the forecast before you head out to be sure you're prepared.
The chance of rain on any given day is 11 percent and there is a 19 percent chance of a cloudy day. With the trade winds out of the area, the number of breezy days drops too, with a 43 percent chance of a windy day on any given day this month.
If you're looking for a good time to try watersports or swimming, this month is it. The average sea temperature is a very warm 27°C (about 81°F). When getting out of the water, you may even get a little chilly, as the average temperature for the outside air can be cooler than the ocean water temperatures.
For this month, the highest recorded temperature was a hot 33°C (about 91°F), with the lowest recorded temperature dropping to 15°C (about 59°F), which is very rare.
Where to Stay
When visiting the island in August, check out the Aparthotel Santa Maria Beach and take full advantage of the close proximity to the Santa Maria beach. The large rooms have a balcony with ocean view, private shower, water closet, air-conditioning and a television. Families will appreciate the triple rooms with extra living space and beds. The hotel also has baby beds available for young families.
Hotel Sabura is located in the Ponta Preta complex in Santa Maria and features new, modern rooms. Most of the rooms are doubles, and some offer two single beds. Each room has a balcony to enjoy the view of the swimming pools and garden. During your stay, you have access to sunbeds by the pool, an on-site restaurant and bar, public lounge rooms, Internet and concierge services.
For a more intimate stay, try the Sakaroule Bed and Breakfast housed in a two-story mansion in one of Santa Maria's quiet neighborhoods. The beach and town center are only a five-minute walk away. The rooms come in single or double configurations with private bathrooms. Studios with a kitchenette are also available. The outdoor bar and terrace are a great place to grab a drink and small plates.
Eating and Drinking Out
For an authentic Spanish meal, check out Geko Gourmet serving tapas and seafood dishes. The menu is a collection of traditional Spanish cuisine, as well as some fusion dishes for a new twist on an old favorite. The restaurant is located near the beach and is open for lunch and dinner. With over 40 wines on the drink menu, you are sure to find one to complement your meal.
If you're looking for a fun and lively nightlife spot, check out the Buddy Bar where both the locals and tourists go to party. With live music nearly every night and a great selection of cocktails, beer and win, it's the ideal place to grab an after-dinner drink and spend the night with friends.
Hollands Glorie brings a touch of Dutch culture to the island of Sal and Santa Maria. Located in a quiet neighborhood, the restaurant not only plays Dutch music, but serves Dutch dishes like sausage, Dutch pancakes and of course, Heineken beer. If you're feeling brave, join the other patrons for karaoke, offered every night.
Things to Do
Even with the increase in rain chances, Santa Maria is still a great place to visit in August and enjoy outdoor activities. Explore Cape Verde offers a variety of eco-tours around the island for you to see the beautiful landscapes and animals that call it home. Excursions include star-gazing, bird watching and a nature club for kids to explore the beach.
The additional rain during the month of August means greener landscapes so it is a good time to visit Viveiro Botanical Gardens and Zoo. Along with selling a variety of plants, bushes and flowers, Viveiro invites you to visit and stroll through the ornamental plant gardens. The animal sanctuary has donkeys, goats, ducks and other animals that you can pet and interact with during your visit.
Another way to view the island and Santa Maria is one bike, which you can rent from Cvbike. The company has regular road bikes for the city streets and paved roads, as well as motorbikes for off-roading. If you have small children or babies, you can rent a child seat to attach to the back of the adult bike.
The main beach of Santa Maria, Praia de Santa Maria is considered one of the most beautiful in Cape Verde. It offers easy access to restaurants, bars and stores with its prime location just outside the town. The pier is popular with fisherman and you'll see plenty of surfers catching the large waves. The beach is clean with blue waters, but can be windy year-round, still it is a good way to spend the hot summer days.
Dates to Note
The Festival of Our Lady of Pity (Pedra do Lume) is celebrated on August 15th each year. The celebration is held in Pedra do Lume and includes Mass with a procession through the town. Other celebration activities include processions, swimming contests and music festival on the beach with local musicians.
