Praia de Chaves is Boa Vista's main resort beach and one of its finest: a huge sweep of pale golden sand backed by dunes on the island's west coast, wide enough that even with hotels behind it, you can walk for a long time without meeting anyone.
The beach
Chaves runs for several kilometres, with soft sand, dunes rolling inland and the ruins of an old lime kiln and pottery works at the northern end — a reminder that this coast worked long before tourism. The water is a clear turquoise, and the light here in the late afternoon is superb.
Swimming and conditions
Conditions vary along the beach and with the season. On calm days the water is lovely, but Chaves is open to the Atlantic and can produce shorebreak and current, so take care, watch the conditions and swim near others. For guaranteed calm water, the sheltered bay at Sal Rei is the safer option. The steady cross-shore wind also makes this a solid kitesurfing beach.
Hotels and access
Several of Boa Vista's large all-inclusive resorts sit behind Chaves, so many visitors reach it simply by walking out of their hotel. From Sal Rei it is a short taxi ride. There are few independent facilities on the sand itself, so bring water if you plan a long walk. See where to stay on Boa Vista.
Nearby
Chaves is a natural starting point for exploring: the pottery village of Rabil is just inland, and island tours to the Viana desert and Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck usually pass this way.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Praia de Chaves?
Often yes, but it is open to the Atlantic and can have shorebreak and current. Check conditions, swim near others, and use Sal Rei bay for guaranteed calm water.
Where is Praia de Chaves?
On the west coast of Boa Vista, a short drive south of Sal Rei, with several large all-inclusive resorts set behind the dunes.