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Rifes da Parda is a stretch of coastline on the east coast of Sal Island, Cape Verde, north of Kite Beach (Shark Bay). It's a less-crowded alternative to the main Kite Beach, offering similar conditions but with fewer riders and more space.
The spot features a mix of flat water near shore and small waves further out, with the northeast trade wind blowing onshore to side-onshore — making it a safe and forgiving setup. The bottom is a mix of sand and scattered reef patches.
Rifes da Parda is popular with intermediate riders who want to practice in onshore conditions without the crowds at Kite Beach. It's also a good option for exploring the east coast beyond the main tourist spots.
There is minimal infrastructure here compared to Kite Beach. Access requires a short drive or walk north from the Kite Beach area.
Launch from the beach and ride in onshore to side-onshore conditions. Flat to choppy water near shore, with small waves developing further out, especially at higher tide.
Good for freeride, practice and progression. Less suited for wave riding than the west coast spots. The onshore wind and relatively flat conditions make it ideal for working on tricks, transitions, and building upwind skills.
Riders can explore the coastline north, but should stay within a reasonable distance of their launch point.
Mix of flat water and small wind chop near shore. Further out, small waves develop on reef patches, especially at mid to high tide.
Water temperature 21–27°C depending on season. Boardshorts/shorty in summer, 3/2mm wetsuit in winter months when wind chill is stronger.
Mixed sand and reef bottom. Crystal-clear water.
Intermediate
Open all year round
Year-round, main season November to May/June with consistent NE trade winds. Best months February–April for strongest and most reliable wind.
Rifes da Parda is on the east coast of Sal, north of Kite Beach. Access by dirt road from the main road linking Santa Maria to the airport.
No paved road directly to the spot — a vehicle (ideally with some clearance) is recommended. Some riders walk north along the coast from Kite Beach.
Very limited infrastructure — no bar, no facilities at the spot itself. The Kite Beach area with its schools and bars is a short distance south.
Onshore wind makes this a relatively safe spot — if you have a problem, you're blown back toward shore.
Scattered reef patches: the bottom is not uniformly sandy. Reef shoes are advisable, especially at low tide when rocks can be very shallow.
No lifeguard or rescue service at this spot. Nearest kite schools are at Kite Beach to the south.
Shallow sections: at low tide, some areas become very shallow with exposed rocks. Check the tide before riding.
Isolation: fewer riders here means less backup if something goes wrong. Don't ride alone.
Northeast trade wind blows onshore to side-onshore, same as Kite Beach but potentially slightly less disturbed as there are no buildings or terrain features upwind.
Wind strength: 15–25 knots during the trade wind season (November–May). Kite sizes 9–12m typically.
The onshore wind direction makes this a safe spot — any problems and you drift toward the beach rather than out to sea. Good for building confidence.
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Currently, there is no weather station at this spot. If you want to change this, help us fund one: Weather Station Project
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