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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 14 June 2026 by the StoryShift weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Cape Verde offers year-round warmth, with the island of Sal enjoying average highs of 25–30°C and very little rainfall. The live forecast above shows current conditions for Santa Maria, the main resort town, helping you plan beach days, watersports or excursions.
What does the live forecast above show for travellers to Santa Maria?
The live conditions above give you the current temperature, wind speed and cloud cover for Santa Maria on Sal. This is especially useful because the trade winds can make the air feel cooler than the thermometer suggests, particularly in the winter months. The forecast updates automatically, so you can check it before heading to the beach or booking a boat trip.
What is the climate like in Cape Verde by month?
Cape Verde has a tropical dry climate, meaning warm temperatures and very little rain for most of the year. The main seasonal difference is between the dry season (November to June) and the wet season (August to October). Below is a month-by-month overview, focused on Sal, where Santa Maria is located.
December to February are the coolest months, with average highs around 25–26°C and sea temperatures of 23–24°C. This is a popular time for cape verde holidays because of the pleasant warmth and low humidity. Cape Verde weather February sees similar conditions: daytime temperatures around 25–26°C, 9–10 hours of sunshine, and very little rain.
March to May temperatures rise gradually, reaching 28°C in May. Sea temperatures warm to 25°C. Cape Verde weather November is similar to May, with highs of 28°C and the start of the dry season. Cape Verde weather December is slightly cooler at 26°C, still ideal for swimming.
June to August are the hottest months, with highs of 29–30°C. Sea temperatures peak at 26–27°C. The wet season begins in August, though showers are usually brief. Cape Verde weather Boa Vista follows the same pattern, as do the other eastern islands.
For a longer planning horizon, a cape verde weather forecast 30 days gives a general trend, while the cape verde weather forecast 14 days shown in the live widget above is more reliable for day-to-day plans.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde for holidays?
The dry season from November to June is the best time for a beach holiday, with the most sunshine and the least chance of rain. February stands out for its comfortable daytime temperatures and cool evenings, making it ideal for walking, exploring or simply relaxing by the sea. July to September can be hotter and more humid, with occasional tropical showers, but still fine for sunbathing. For a comparison with another popular winter-sun destination, see our Madeira weather guide.
What should you pack for Santa Maria, Sal?
Lightweight clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts and dresses works all year. A light jacket or sweater is useful for breezy evenings, especially from December to March. Swimwear, sun cream and a hat are essential. If you visit between August and October, pack a compact rain jacket for the occasional shower. Good walking sandals are recommended for exploring the volcanic coastline.
When does the rainy season occur?
The rainy season runs from August to October, with September being the wettest month. Even then, rainfall is modest compared to many tropical destinations – typically around 30–40mm per month on Sal. Showers are usually short and do not disrupt holiday plans. The rest of the year is very dry. If you prefer guaranteed sunshine, plan your cape verde holidays between November and June. You can also check our Barcelona weather guide for another year-round destination.
How hot is it in Cape Verde in February?
February is one of the coolest months, with daytime highs around 25–26°C. Sea temperatures are a pleasant 23–24°C, perfect for swimming. Evenings can feel a little cooler due to the trade winds, so a light jacket is recommended. Overall, it is very comfortable for outdoor activities.
How hot is it in Cape Verde in December?
December sees average highs of 26°C and sea temperatures of 24°C. It is the start of the dry season, so you can expect plenty of sunshine and very little rain. The evenings are mild, making it a popular month for cape verde holidays.
How hot is it in Cape Verde in November?
November is still warm, with highs around 28°C and sea temperatures of 25°C. It marks the transition from the wet to the dry season, so rainfall is low. The humidity is also lower than in October, making it a comfortable time to visit. For a longer-term view, the cape verde weather forecast 30 days can help you plan.
If you are planning a trip, you can also consult our 10-day forecast for Santa Maria to fine-tune your itinerary. For travellers considering other destinations, see our Dubai weather guide for similar year-round warmth.