Santa Maria's moderate weather continues into February with warm temperatures and dry conditions. The average temperature runs around 21°C (about 70°F), near ideal considering many areas in the UK have snow during this time. The average high stays comfortable, going up to 24°C (around 75°F). Even during the evening hours, the temperatures feel warm, with the low for the month staying around 18°C (about 64°F), a slight decrease from the lows of January, making this is the chilliest month of the year in this resort.
You might want to bring a lightweight jacket for the evening in case you tend to get a little cold with the breezes blowing. During the day, you'll be comfortable in short-sleeve shirts, shorts, skirts or capris. Your suitcase should also contain sunglasses or a hat to shield your eyes during the 10 hours of sunshine the area receives each day.
While there, you'll have a 30 percent chance of having a sunny day and more than likely, you won't see any rainfall. The average rainfall for this month is 3mm and it only falls over three days, so don't worry if you forget an umbrella, poncho or raincoat. The chance of rain is only three percent on any given day and your chances for even a cloudy day are only 14 percent.
Thanks to the warm sea temperatures, you can participate in swimming and water sports all year round on the island of Sal. Like nearby Prainha, the average sea temperature in Santa Maria is 22°C (about 72°F), nice and toasty. Because the ocean temperatures are close to the air temperatures, it may even feel chilly when you do get out of the water, especially as it is still windy during the month, with an 84 percent chance of a windy day.
For this month, the highest recorded temperature was an extremely warm 32°C (about 90°F), with the lowest recorded temperature falling to a cold 10°C (about 50°F).
Where to Stay
Aquamarina Suites is a modern hotel with a colonial feel offering a more affordable option for families and budget travelers visiting in February. The junior, deluxe and regular suites all offer ample space for everyone and have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, full kitchens and in some, private balconies. Amenities include a pool, room service and a convenient location, only two minutes from the town square.
At the Dunas de Sal, you have a variety of rooms choices ranging from double twin rooms to suites with double beds, separate living rooms and a private hot tub. Hotel amenities include swimming pool, restaurant, pool bar, yoga and fitness center, spa and a diving center. Plus, if you book your room online, you get a free welcome drink and complimentary Wi-Fi.
For a more intimate and private stay, choose the private residence Leme Bedje that has a balcony with ocean views and is only 30 meters from the beach. The home has a bedroom with double bed, kitchenette, private bathroom with shower and bidet, living room area and night and day security. The residence is part of a complex with pool, gardens and lounge chairs on the beach.
Eating and Drinking Out
If healthy food is what you're craving, Cape Fruit serves guests fresh smoothies, juices and other small meals and snacks. The restaurant is popular with vegetarians and uses locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Giving off a chill vibe with a friendly staff, Cape Fruit also serves cocktails for a mid-day or after-dinner rest while sightseeing.
While the restaurant and its menu might be small, Di Terra still delivers fresh fish and high-quality sushi to customers. Only open for dinner, this cozy establishment also serves wine and beer to go with your meal. It has take-out if you want to take your dinner to go and offers outdoor seating so you can enjoy the beautiful Santa Maria weather.
Things to Do
The main beach of Santa Maria, Praia de Santa Maria 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.
The water's plenty warm during February to try your hand at watersports, including kiteboarding. The Kiteboarding Club Sal rents out kiteboards and also offers lessons for beginners wanting to get the hang of the sport. The business is open from November through April, when the trade winds blow through the area, providing optimal conditions for kiteboarding.
If shopping is more your thing, try 3RSAL, a trio of shops in Santa Maria that sell homemade wares. Most of the goods are made from recycled materials or upcycled to something new. From housewares to paintings to jewelry, you're sure to find just the perfect souvenir at 3RSAL.
Dates to Note
Just like other countries, Santa Maria and the island of Sal celebrate Carnival during the month of February. Carnival here is much like Carnival in Spain and France, with some religious roots. Mainly, it is a time to celebrate for a week, with great food, music, and dance. Local residents showcase their traditions in dancing, music and more. Arts and crafts, stories and costumes add to the entertainment and fun for this special celebration.
