We love —
- Watching the sunset from Atlantis terrace, with golden light reflecting on the ocean and soft waves below.
- Savouring sun-drenched breakfasts on the terrace, tasting freshly baked pastries while Atlantic breezes carry salt and warmth.
- Diving among coral reefs off Sal, discovering shoals of fish and shimmering underwater landscapes beneath crystalline water.
Customer reviews —
Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa 5* —
Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa 5* sits along Sal’s southwest shoreline, embraced by warm Atlantic winds and wide stretches of golden sand. Soft colours, woven details, and open terraces shape a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere from the first moment. Sea air drifts gently across quiet pathways as distant laughter and music blend with the hush of waves.
Beyond the resort, Algodoeiro Beach curves along the coast where bright water meets soft sand and windsurfers dance across the horizon. Follow coastal tracks towards Santa Maria, passing fishing boats, lively cafés, and murals rich in island colour. Fresh seafood scents fill the air while the Atlantic breeze cools sun-warmed skin, revealing Cape Verde through sound, taste, and movement.
Your room —
Deluxe Room (40 m²)
The Deluxe Room welcomes you with soft, warm tones and textured fabrics that invite calm and repose. Light drifts gently across the space, while the subtle scent of fresh linens enhances a feeling of indulgence. Every corner encourages serene comfort and quiet elegance, creating a peaceful retreat in which to unwind.
Family Room (75 m²)
The Family Room balances open space, soft fabrics, and gentle natural light to foster comfort and ease. Warm tones and subtle textures enhance a sense of calm, while fresh linens provide quiet indulgence. Every detail nurtures relaxation, making it a refined and welcoming space for families to share.
Two Bedroom Suite (75 m²)
The Two Bedroom Suite is luminous and spacious, with airy lounges and softly textured surfaces that soothe the senses. Each bedroom promises restful slumber, and the gentle aroma of fresh linens blends with warm, inviting air. The suite creates a luxurious and tranquil haven for families or small groups.
Your dining choices
Mosaico’s vibrant buffet draws guests in with colour, aroma and the theatre of live cooking, best enjoyed beneath open skies on the outdoor terrace. Aqua delivers easy Italian dishes and relaxed daytime snacks, while Sahel introduces Indian flavours through elegant multi-course menus rich with spice and warmth. Rancho focuses on charcoal-grilled meats with deep smoky character. Atlantis completes the journey with Mediterranean seafood served beside wide ocean views and fresh sea air. Eight bars across the resort provide effortless refreshment from sunrise to late evening. Poolside drinks arrive icy and bright as soft music fills the background. The lobby bar offers calm sophistication with gentle conversation and polished service. Sea-facing terraces become golden at sunset, perfect for tropical cocktails and slow, indulgent evenings.
Your time
YHI Spa creates a cocoon of warmth and tranquillity, where soft steam and gentle water sounds guide guests towards deep relaxation. The hydrotherapy circuit flows between the indoor pool, hydromassage and sensation showers that awaken tired limbs. Sauna heat surrounds the body in quiet comfort while calm treatment spaces encourage total escape from daily rhythm.
The island of Sal extends the experience into the open sea and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Snorkel or dive through clear Atlantic waters rich with marine colour. Float in the mineral-rich Salinas de Pedro Lume or swim within Buracona’s dark stone pools shaped by nature. Ocean winds invite kitesurfing, surfing and paddleboarding across wide horizons filled with sun and salt air.
Optional excursions & extras —
Catamaran excursion
Board a catamaran for a trip along the west coast, with a refreshing cocktail and snack served en route. Enjoy a swim or relax on board, with a safe inflatable pool for children.
4x4 safari to discover the Blue Eye and the landscapes of Sal
Discover the unique landscapes of the island of Sal, with a visit to Monte Leon, Fontona, Palmeira and Buracona. Admire the incredible Blue Eye, a fascinating natural phenomenon, and a natural pool with turquoise waters, with entry to Buracona included.
Tour privé de l'île de Sal - 2 personnes
Discover the wonders of the island of Sal with a complete tour that includes visits to emblematic sites such as Espagos, Baia de Parda, Pedra de Lume and Buracona. Transport, lunch and access to the Salinas for a swim in its hypersaline waters are included for an unforgettable day of nature, culture and relaxation.
4x4 Quad adventure (duo) - 2h
Discover the south coast of Boa Vista on a quad bike, taking in the old Santa Maria salt flats, Shark Bay beach and Sierra Negra, a turtle nesting site. This guided adventure will allow you to explore unique landscapes, combining nature and thrills.
Jet ski trip - 1 hour
Experience a thrilling 1-hour jet ski adventure from the beach at Santa Maria, Cape Verde. Feel the freedom of the waves as you discover the beauty of the coastline, in a magnificent and safe setting.
Private tour of Sal Island - 3 people
Discover the wonders of the island of Sal with a complete tour that includes visits to emblematic sites such as Espagos, Baia de Parda, Pedra de Lume and Buracona. Transport, lunch and access to the Salinas for a swim in its hypersaline waters are included for an unforgettable day of nature, culture and relaxation.
Private tour of the island of Sal - 4/5 people
Discover the wonders of the island of Sal with a complete tour that includes visits to emblematic sites such as Espagos, Baia de Parda, Pedra de Lume and Buracona. Transport, lunch and access to the Salinas for a swim in its hypersaline waters are included for an unforgettable day of nature, culture and relaxation.
Ziplining in Cape Verde
Fly more than 1,000 metres above the ocean on one of the world's rare zip lines that crosses the sea, with the chance to spot sharks beneath your feet.
Cape Verdean evening
Experience an unforgettable evening of Cape Verdean rhythms and colours. Taste local specialities while enjoying traditional music and dance in a warm and festive atmosphere.
Discover Scuba Diving
Discover the best diving spots in Cape Verde with SSI and PADI courses. Beginners or experienced divers, improve your skills and hire the equipment you need to explore the seabed.
Horseback ride - 1h
Enjoy a one-hour horseback ride through the Salinas de Santa Maria, with a slow walk suitable for all levels. An ideal way to discover the beauty of the island while enjoying a relaxing moment on horseback.
Stay connected with an additional 3 GB of mobile internet data
Add an extra 10 GB of internet data to stay connected without exceeding your plan. Activate your eSIM and enjoy connectivity wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with your loved ones, find the best restaurants nearby, and use your GPS with peace of mind.
Please note: 3 GB of internet data represents approximately 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social media/video calls.
Your journey to Cape Verde —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Sal —
Sal is a sun-drenched island of golden dunes, wide Atlantic beaches, and colourful seaside towns shaped by trade winds and ocean rhythms. Days unfold between turquoise waters and desert landscapes, while evenings glow with music, warm breezes, and a relaxed island spirit that feels both vibrant and soothing.
Must-sees
- Santa Maria Beach: Walking along a vast stretch of pale sand where fishing boats rest beside clear waters and lively beachfront cafés.
- Buracona Blue Eye: Witnessing sunlight transform a natural rock pool into a vivid blue circle set within dramatic volcanic formations.
- Salinas de Pedra de Lume: Floating effortlessly in a salt crater lake within an extinct volcano, surrounded by stark lunar-like scenery.
- Palmeira Village: Discovering a colourful fishing harbour filled with pastel houses, local life, and an authentic Cape Verdean atmosphere.
- Kite Beach: Watching vibrant kites dance across the horizon as steady winds create a paradise for watersports and ocean lovers.
Culinary culture
Cape Verdean cuisine blends African and Portuguese influences, with grilled lobster, fresh tuna, and slow-cooked stews flavoured with spices and herbs. Beachside restaurants serve ocean-fresh dishes alongside local grogue and tropical cocktails beneath star-filled skies.
Dive deeper
Join a catamaran cruise along the coast, explore desert dunes by quad bike, or enjoy live morna music and dancing in Santa Maria after sunset. Snorkelling trips reveal colourful marine life, while spa retreats invite moments of pure relaxation beside the sea.
Good to know
The currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). Amílcar Cabral International Airport is around 20 minutes from Santa Maria. Year-round sunshine and warm temperatures make Sal ideal for beach escapes, with constant trade winds creating refreshing breezes and excellent conditions for watersports.
