Sal can be considered a sunny island. The sun shines here 350 days a year and thanks to the flat terrain of the island you won't find much shade except under an umbrella. The weather is ideal for a year-round holiday on the beach by the sea and in the water itself.

The climate is tropical with a desert character. It will be dry, warm and, thanks to Sal's position to windward, windy.

The wind usually blows from the north-east and if you stay in the south-west of the island, for example in the resorts of Rio, you will be perfectly protected by buildings. Even so, the wind is not strong and can be considered more of a pervasive breeze. It is strongest between December and February.

You won't see much cloud here and if you do, it will be gone within the hour. It doesn't rain on Sal. A few drops may fall in September, but they are gone in no time and the weather has no choice but to brighten the beaches with sunshine again.

Temperatures during the year

What is the weather like on Sal during the year?

Weather in January

January will offer windy weather, so expect to be cold at times when you get out of the water. However, this will only be an impression. It's over 24°C in the shade and no less than 19°C at night. The ocean temperature is a beautiful 24°C.

Weather in February

February has a few tenths higher temperatures, so expect a steady 25 °C during the day and water temperatures of around 24 °C. It's still windy, but by the end of the month the winds have noticeably died down and the sea is beginning to calm down.

Weather in March

March may still be the windy season, but the weather is already showing signs that the hot summer is approaching. Temperatures above 25°C and a still warm ocean at 24°C won't be a shame. On sultry days, temperatures above 30 °C in the shade are no exception.

Weather in April

As the first month of spring, April is more likely to be a sign that summer is here in Cape Verde. Hot days will be around 30°C, but steady days will be between 25 and 26°C. The ocean washing over Sal is still 24 to 25 °C.

Weather in May

May is the month when temperatures start to rise and will continue to do so until the end of the holiday season. In May, the average daytime temperature is around 26°C and the water is already 25°C.

Weather in June

June guarantees that you won't see a cloud in the sky. Sunny days are complemented by temperatures of around 27 °C and the ocean starts to warm up. It's already over 25°C.

Weather in July

July is an ideal month for families with children. The summer holidays are in full swing and the summer temperatures on Sal are stable. It's always around 28°C, sunny and the sea is a cool 27°C. The water will be much warmer in the pools.

Weather in August

August is the second hottest month of the year, with temperatures never dropping below 30 °C during the day and 24 °C at night. There is virtually no wind and the ocean is calm with temperatures around 27 °C.

Weather in September

September is the hottest month of the year. In extreme heat there will be 35 °C, but expect rather stable temperatures of around 30 °C. Thanks to the ocean, the heat is not as oppressive as in other summer destinations in Africa. The sea is still 27 °C. At the same time, September is considered a rainy month. However, it rains a dozen drops in total and for more than 3 days you will see nothing but clear blue skies.

Weather in October

October is the month when the wind starts to pick up again. It gradually increases and by the end of the month it is already the windy season. Don't worry, it won't restrict you on your holiday. Temperatures are around 29°C and the sea is 26°C.

Weather in November

November, together with the wind, brings a lot of water sports loving tourists to Sal. The constant wind indulges windsurfing and kitesurfing. Temperatures are high - it's 28 °C during the day and the ocean is 26 °C.

Weather in December

December isn't one of the best of the year in terms of weather, but Christmas and holidays make Cape Verde in high demand and dates sell out. It's between 26 and 27°C during the day and the sea is a pleasant 25°C.