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Baia das Gatas (Catfish Bay) is a unique natural lagoon on the northeast coast of São Vicente Island, Cape Verde. It's the only permanent flat water spot in the entire Cape Verde archipelago — a shallow natural swimming pool protected from ocean swell by a reef barrier.
The lagoon is knee-to-waist deep with an ultra-flat water surface, making it exceptional for freestyle practice. However, the spot is tiny — two kites are enough to fill it. The main challenge is the rocky bottom: at low tide, rocks become exposed and dangerous.
Baia das Gatas is a popular weekend spot for local families who come to swim and snorkel. It also hosts the famous Baia das Gatas Music Festival in August, one of Cape Verde's biggest cultural events.
Tide-dependent: ride in the morning when water is deep enough (knee to waist). By noon the water drops and rocks become exposed. Check tide tables before going.
The ultra-flat water is perfect for freestyle tricks and practice — nowhere else in Cape Verde offers this.
Very limited space — maximum 2 kites at a time. Don't go if others are already riding.
Not suitable for beginners due to rocks and limited space.
Flat water lagoon, knee-to-waist deep. Rocky bottom with sea urchins. Crystal-clear water.
Water temperature 21–25°C. Reef shoes mandatory.
Intermediate
Open all year round
Year-round, best October to June. Tide-dependent — mornings only. Baia das Gatas Music Festival in August (no kiting during the festival).
Baia das Gatas is on the northeast coast of São Vicente, east of Salamansa. Accessible by taxi or car from Mindelo (~20 minutes).
Small village with basic amenities. Some local restaurants. No kite school on site.
Best to arrange a visit through a kite school in Salamansa — they know the tides and conditions.
ROCKS: this is the biggest danger. The lagoon has a rocky bottom. At low tide, rocks become exposed and can destroy boards and injure riders. Only ride from early morning until around noon when water level is sufficient.
Very limited space: the lagoon is tiny. Two kites maximum. Kiteloop practice is risky — a failed kiteloop can put you on rocks or into telephone poles on shore.
Sea urchins: the rocks are covered in sea urchins. Reef shoes absolutely essential.
Shared space: local families swim here on weekends. Avoid riding when bathers are present.
NE trade wind blows across the lagoon. Wind can be slightly gusty due to the surrounding terrain, but generally consistent.
Wind strength: 15–25 knots in season. Kite sizes 7–12m.
The flat water and steady wind make it a freestyle paradise — but only if the tide cooperates.
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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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