The Honeymoon Edit: Sal, Cape Verde

Jen Carr

Jen Carr

— 4 min read
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The Honeymoon Edit: Sal, Cape Verde

May 12, 2026

If you think a honeymoon has to be the Maldives or Bora Bora, you haven’t seen the lunar landscapes of Sal. We hit this for our honeymoon back in October 2023, and it was the perfect "High-Low" balance: 5-star luxury at the resort and "Life on the Road" adventures in the desert.

The Journey: The "BA Magic" Upgrade

Getting to Sal isn't a direct shot from London, but the detour was worth every mile.

  • The Route: We flew British Airways from London via Lisbon. There were no direct flights, but sometimes the "Low" of a layover leads to a "High."
  • The "Lux" Win: Since it was our honeymoon, the airline pulled a total legend move and upgraded us for free. There is no better way to start a "2 Turntables" trip than with extra legroom and a glass of champagne over the Atlantic.

The Stay: Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort

In a land of "No Stress," the Hilton is the sanctuary.

  • The Vibe: It is the crown jewel of the island; clean, safe, and modern.
  • The Polish: Coming back to a 5-star suite after a day in the Sahara dust is the only way to do Sal. It’s that rare brand-name win that feels 100% authentic to the island.
  • Bonus upgrade to the honeymoon suite with a beautiful ocean view and balcony to enjoy the sounds of the tides

The Currency Hustle: The Euro "Peg"

Even though Cape Verde has been independent since 1975, the ties to Portugal remain in the wallet.

  • The Money: The official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo, but since it’s pegged to the Euro, Euros are accepted everywhere.
  • The Strategy: You don’t need to stress about a complicated currency exchange the second you land. Keep Euros on you for the "Loud" market stalls and taxi rides, and use your card for the "Lux" dinners at the resort.

Day Excursions: Mirage Deserts and Blue Eyes

Sal might look like a pile of rocks from the air, but on the ground, it’s a playground. Viator is king here and trips are inexpensive and well worth it.

  • The Mirage: We headed into the desert to see the Terra Boa mirages. It’s a total mind-game. The heat creates a vast "ocean" on the horizon that isn't there.
  • The Blue Eye (Buracona): A natural volcanic pool where the sun hits the water to create a glowing neon "eye." It’s nature’s own light show.
  • Sailing & Seafood: Days spent on the water, catching the Atlantic breeze and eating seafood that was swimming an hour before. Very clean, very safe, and very "Lux."
  • Shark Bay: Put on your water shoes and walk into the shallows with baby Lemon Sharks. It’s safe, exhilarating, and perfect for the "Loud" highlight reel.
  • Pedra de Lume Salt Crater: Float in ancient volcanic salt ponds that are 26 times saltier than the ocean.
  • Santa Maria Pier: Go at 11:00 AM to watch the local fishermen bring in the catch. It’s raw, it’s vibrant, and it’s the heartbeat of the island.

Survival 101: The "Honeymoon" Reality

  • The Water: Bottled water is the law. Even at the Hilton, keep a stash.
  • The Restroom Ritual: The Hilton is pristine, but out in the desert or at the Salt Crater, the "Life on the Road" rule is in effect: Always have your tissues. Wind and salt happen; prepared TP doesn't always.

The Beach Reality: Turquoise & "No Stress"

The coastline in Sal is where the "Silent Luxury" of the island really hits. Unlike the rocky entry in Ksamil, this is exactly what you imagine when you think of a honeymoon.

  • The Sand: We’re talking miles of wide, powdery white sand that feels like flour between your toes. It’s expansive, pristine, and perfectly "Lux."
  • The Water: The Atlantic here turns a shade of turquoise that honestly doesn't look real. It’s crystal clear and inviting, though being the Atlantic, it has that refreshing "Loud" energy; expect some waves and a steady breeze that keeps the heat manageable.
  • The Safety: This is the best part. You can walk the beaches of Santa Maria for miles and feel completely at ease. Whether you’re lounging in front of the Hilton or wandering further down the coast, the vibe is incredibly safe and welcoming.
  • The Santa Maria Pier: Make sure to walk down to the pier. It’s the local "Loud" hub where the turquoise water meets the colourful fishing boats. Watching the locals dive off the pier into that blue water is the ultimate "Life on the Road" view.

The Takeaway

Sal is a beach lover’s dream that hasn't been ruined by the "herd" yet. It’s about that endless turquoise horizon, the softest sand you'll ever walk on, and the peace of mind knowing you’re in one of the safest spots in the Atlantic.

Talk soon (and probably loudly),

Jen

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