Tarrafal Beach Boat Trip & BBQ Lunch from Praia

Summary

Snorkeling Adventure & Lighthouse Boat Ride in Tarrafal Bay

If you want a laid-back day with real Cape Verde flavor—boat rides, snorkeling, fresh-caught barbecue on Tarrafal Beach—this trip nails it. You’ll get local stories and plenty of time to just relax by the sea.

What’s the experience like?

The day kicked off early with a pickup in Praia—no rush, just that slow Cape Verdean morning air. The drive up through the mountains was cooler than I expected, with clouds hanging low over the hills. We stopped for a quick coffee in Assomada; the café there had these sweet fried pastries, and the owner joked about how tourists always ask for Wi-Fi before coffee. Out the window, you could see kids playing football on red dirt fields.

Once we hit Tarrafal Bay, you could smell salt and grilled fish drifting from beach shacks. Our guide, Paulo, rounded us up for the boat ride out to Ponta Preta lighthouse. The sea was calm but you could feel the Atlantic’s pull—sometimes a spray of saltwater would catch you off guard. At Monte Graciosa, we watched local fishermen haul in their catch; Paulo explained how they still use old wooden boats here. When we reached Agudoal, snorkel gear was waiting. The water was so clear I spotted tiny blue fish darting between rocks—honestly lost track of time floating out there.

Lunch was already sizzling when we got back—grilled fish with rice and veggies right on the sand. There’s something about eating barefoot with your hands still salty that just feels right. Afterward, most of us just sprawled out under coconut palms or wandered along the shore picking up shells. The sun felt strong but there was always a breeze coming down from the hills.

Heading back late afternoon, I remember watching sunlight flicker across the valleys as we wound through mountain roads again. Everyone got quiet for a bit—maybe tired or just soaking it all in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tarrafal Beach and Boat Trip

• Pickup from Praia
• Drive through mountains and photo stops in Assomada
• Boat trip to Monte Graciosa and Ponta Preta lighthouse with snorkeling and BBQ
• Relax on Tarrafal Beach
• Return to accommodation at sunset

Top questions

How much is the boat fee and when do I pay?

The boat rental isn’t included—it’s 20 Euros per person (or 28 Euros if you’re solo), paid locally before boarding.

Can I bring my own drinks?

Yes! If you want something special to drink at lunch, best to buy it beforehand since we eat in a remote spot.

Is this tour okay for beginners or non-swimmers?

Absolutely—it’s suitable for all fitness levels and life jackets are provided for everyone on board.

What should I pack?

I’d recommend sandals or flip-flops, swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen—and maybe a light jacket if you get chilly after swimming.

What’s included

Your day covers pickup and drop-off from Praia, transport through Santiago’s mountains, water and soft drinks (kept cold in an ice cooler), all snorkeling equipment and life jackets, plus a two-course beach barbecue lunch with fish and veggies. A friendly guide is with you throughout—and yes, liability insurance is included too.