The Surf Window

Chaves Beach

Boavista, Cape Verde

Beach breakIntermediate

On Boa Vista island in Cape Verde, Praia de Chaves is a spectacular 10km stretch of blonde sand on the island's north coast where trade winds and Atlantic swells create powerful beach break in an extraordinary Saharan-meets-ocean landscape.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalWNW (300°)
WindowWSW–N (240°–360°)
Size–NW 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

E

Light under 15 knots (when trades ease)

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Fine sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the long exposed beach

Length

80–200m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced surfers
  • •Why: Powerful, exposed Atlantic beach break with strong trade winds and rip currents

Hazards

  • •Very strong rip currents, this beach is dangerous for swimming
  • •Constant strong trade winds make conditions rough
  • •Very remote, limited assistance

Local Tips

  • •The beach is 10km long, walk north for fewer people and better peaks
  • •Boa Vista is the flattest and most Saharan-feeling of the Cape Verde islands, extraordinary dune landscapes
  • •Sea turtles nest on this beach June–November, be aware of nesting areas

Location

Map showing the location of Chaves Beach in Boavista, Cape Verde

16.1833, -22.8667