Ponta Preta is located just to the northwest of Santa Maria, Sal Cape de Verde. Ponta Preta is the surfer mecka of Sal and Cape de Verde islands and well known by water sport professionals and surfers. Surfers come from all over the world to Cape de Verde islands to ride these huge waves at Ponta Preta. Get to Ponta Preta by walking about 15-20 minutes north west from Santa Maria or just follow the coast.

The spot is basically just a sandy beach, some rocks and huge surfer waves. If you are not a professional surfer yourself, bring something to eat and sit down on the rocks to watch the spectacular scenery of surfers and natural gifted locals riding the waves and doing acrobatic tricks and somersaults. Waves reaching 4-5m is not unusual.

There is also a kiosk at this spot, but not always open. Ponta Preta is obviously a windy destination. Following the coast back south from Ponta Preta towards Santa Maria, the coastline is filled with tourist activities such as horseback riding, natural sand dunes and bars serving drinks to thirsty sunbathing tourists.

If you are into kitesurfing, check out Costa de Fragata, more info in this article.