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01 · THE LOCATION
Where is Sal Rei?
Sal Rei is the capital and main urban centre of Boa Vista, located along the island’s north-western coast. Despite being the island’s main town, it has retained a relaxed atmosphere, with colourful streets, local shops, restaurants and everyday life centred around the waterfront and harbour.
Nearby Estoril and Cabral beaches bring the ocean within easy reach of the town centre, while the small islet of Djeu and its historic fort can be seen across Sal Rei Bay.
Capital and main town of Boa Vista
Estoril and Cabral beaches nearby
Historic bay overlooking Djeu islet
How to reach Sal Rei
Sal Rei is one of the easiest places to reach on Boa Vista. Aristides Pereira International Airport is located around 5 km away, near Rabil, and the town is connected to the island’s main tourist areas by paved roads.
Once in Sal Rei, the compact centre can easily be explored on foot, while a scooter or E-Bike is a practical option for reaching nearby beaches and coastal areas.
01
By taxi or transfer
The easiest option from the airport or the main resorts, with Sal Rei only a short drive from Rabil and the airport.
02
By scooter or E-Bike
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A flexible way to move between the town, Estoril Beach and nearby coastal areas at your own pace.
03
With a guided island tour
Several island excursions include a stop in Sal Rei, allowing visitors to combine local culture with beaches, desert landscapes and other landmarks.
What to do in Sal Rei
Sal Rei combines local culture with easy access to the sea. Walk through the town centre, relax by the bay or use the harbour as a starting point for discovering Boa Vista from the water.
CULTURE
Walk through Sal Rei
Explore the colourful streets of the capital, visit the main square and Santa Isabel Church, browse local shops and experience the everyday atmosphere of Boa Vista.
04 · CURIOSITIES
What makes Sal Rei unique?
Behind its relaxed seaside atmosphere, Sal Rei tells much of Boa Vista’s story through salt, maritime trade, religion and its historic Atlantic bay.
The “King of Salt”
The name Sal Rei can be translated as “King of Salt”, a reminder of the period when salt production played an important role in Boa Vista’s economy.
A fort against pirates
Across the bay lies Djeu, or Ilhéu de Sal Rei, where the ruins of the Fort of Duque de Bragança remain. The fort was built during the colonial period to help protect the bay from pirate attacks.
A meeting of cultures
Sal Rei preserves different layers of the island’s cultural heritage, from Santa Isabel Church and the restored Nossa Senhora de Fátima chapel to the historic Jewish Cemetery in the Rotchinha area.
05 · WHEN TO VISIT
The best time to visit
Sal Rei can be explored throughout the year. Morning is ideal for discovering the streets, shops and local life, while late afternoon is perfect for walking along the waterfront or relaxing around Estoril Beach.
For visitors interested in local culture, the end of June and beginning of July are particularly interesting: celebrations dedicated to Santa Isabel culminate on 4 July with religious and popular festivities across the town.
LOCAL EVENT
Santa Isabel · 4 July
The town’s patron-saint celebrations bring together processions, cultural events, music and local festivities.
WHAT TO BRING
Light & comfortable clothing
Sun protection, comfortable shoes and water are useful for walking around town and visiting the nearby beaches.
TIME OF DAY
Morning or late afternoon
Explore the centre in the morning and enjoy the waterfront in the softer late-afternoon light.
RECOMMENDED DURATION
Half day to full day
Enough time to explore the centre, waterfront and nearby beaches without rushing
06 · FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Before you go