16.65 | -22.95
Canuha, also known as Calheta Funda, is a small bay on the west coast of Sal Island, Cape Verde. It sits between the Murdeira/Canoa area to the north and Ponta Preta to the south.
The spot produces a powerful left-hand wave breaking into the bay over reef. When the swell is under 2m, it's accessible to competent wave riders. Above 2m, it becomes a serious, fast wave reserved for experts.
One of Calheta Funda's key advantages is its small beach — one of the rare places on the west coast (alongside Fontona) where you can comfortably launch from sand. The dramatic volcanic cliffs surrounding the bay create a spectacular, wild setting.
The spot sees less traffic than Ponta Preta, making it attractive for riders seeking uncrowded waves. It's also popular with surfers for its consistent, well-shaped left.
Launch from the small beach in the bay — one of the few sand launches on the west coast. Get through the shore break and head to the lineup.
The main wave is a powerful left breaking into the bay. When swell is moderate (1–2m), it's a fun, well-shaped wave accessible to advanced riders. When swell exceeds 2m, it becomes fast and powerful — experts only.
Directional board essential. The wave quality makes it excellent for strapless wave riding.
Calheta Funda can also be reached by riding downwind from Fontona (via Curral Joul, Ali Baba) or accessed as part of a west coast exploration session.
Return: the beach launch makes it easier to land back here than at most west coast spots. Alternatively, continue south toward Ponta Preta or arrange a car pickup.
Open all year round
Year-round, main season November to June with NE trade winds. Best wave conditions December to March when NW groundswell is most consistent.
Advanced
Open Atlantic with northwest groundswell. The main wave is a left-hander breaking over reef into the bay. Wave height 1–2.5+ metres depending on swell.
Water temperature 22–27°C depending on season. Shorty or 3mm top in winter, boardshorts in summer. The offshore wind chill can make it feel cooler.
Rocky reef bottom. Crystal-clear water.
From Santa Maria, drive north toward Espargos/the airport, then turn left (west) following signs or dirt tracks toward the coast. A vehicle with clearance is recommended — the last section is unpaved.
The bay has a small beach area where you can set up. No infrastructure — no bar, no toilets, no shade. Bring everything you need: water, food, sun protection, spare gear.
Some kite schools in Santa Maria include Calheta Funda in their guided west coast excursions.
The NE trade wind at Calheta Funda blows side-offshore to offshore. This grooms the wave faces cleanly, holding up the lip of the left-hand wave and creating excellent riding conditions.
Wind strength: 15–25 knots during the trade wind season (November–June). Steady Beaufort 3–5 typically, rarely exceeding force 6 — remarkably consistent. Kite sizes 7–11m.
The bay's position on the west coast means the wind has crossed the entire island, arriving clean but with an offshore component that demands respect.
Expert spot when swell exceeds 2m. The left-hand wave is powerful and breaks over rocky reef.
Offshore wind: the NE trade wind blows side-offshore to offshore. Equipment failure means drifting toward the open Atlantic. Never ride alone.
Rocky shore and reef: the beach is small but the surrounding coastline is rocky with volcanic formations. Helmet and impact vest recommended. Reef shoes essential for shore access.
Shore break: can be challenging to get through when swell is up.
No rescue service: remote coastline with no safety infrastructure. Limited or no mobile signal.
Shared lineup: surfers also ride here — respect wave priority rules.
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