Praia Negra
Praia Negra (Black Beach) on Santiago Island gets its name from the dark volcanic sand. The beach offers a range of conditions—heavy and hollow in winter when big NW swells arrive, but more forgiving in summer. The main island of Cape Verde offers a more authentic experience than tourist-focused Sal.
Praia Negra surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (350°)
- Direction range
- 315° - 30°
- Size range
- 1m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.7m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 60° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.5m
Water temp
24°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Wide beach. Heavy in winter, beginner-friendly summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Praia Negra?
The Praia Negra profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Praia Negra?
The Praia Negra profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 60° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Praia Negra?
The Praia Negra scoring profile favors swell from N (315° to 30°), a swell-height range of 1m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Praia Negra?
The main season at Praia Negra is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Winter NW swells. Wide beach. Heavy in winter.
How do I get to Praia Negra?
The spot profile lists RAI as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 45 minutes. Wide beach. Heavy in winter, beginner-friendly summer.
What kind of wave is Praia Negra?
Praia Negra is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Winter NW swells. Wide beach. Heavy in winter.
Getting There
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