Ponta Preta

Cape Verde's world-class right — 400m volcanic reef barrels

Ponta Preta is Cape Verde's crown jewel — a long, walling right-hander that offers 200-400m rides over volcanic rock reef on the west coast of Sal Island. The wave is powered by consistent North Atlantic swells that march south from November through March, producing perfectly shaped 4-8ft+ barrels with the northeast trade winds blowing offshore almost year-round. It breaks best on low to mid tide and can hold serious size. The combination of constant offshore winds, powerful groundswell, and the unique volcanic reef creates one of the most reliable world-class barrels in the Atlantic. Summer months (April-October) still deliver 2-5ft waves for a mellower session. Sharp volcanic rock means booties are essential.

Type

Reef, Right

Crowd

2 / 5

Safety

7 / 10

Price

$$

Best months to surf

Fall, Winter, Spring

Other things to do in the area

Kitesurfing at nearby Santa Maria beach

Walk the shell-covered Shell Beach

Snorkel and dive the volcanic reefs

Watch spectacular sunsets from Ponta Preta cliffs

Current forecast

Surfline