Fajã d'Água is Brava's loveliest spot: a small fishing village strung along a curving bay at the foot of towering green cliffs, reached by a dramatic descent from the highlands.
What to do
Swim in the natural rock pools where the sea washes in, relax by the palm-fringed bay, and eat freshly caught fish at a simple local guesthouse. The setting — sheer cliffs, blue water and quiet — is pure escape.
Getting there
A winding road drops from Nova Sintra down to the coast; it's a short but scenic trip by aluguer or on foot for the hardy. Fajã d'Água is also a fine base if you want to stay right by the sea.
The bay at the end of the world
Fajã d'Água is a single line of houses between towering cliff walls and a deep Atlantic bay — regularly, and fairly, called one of the most beautiful village settings in Cape Verde. Fishing boats rest on the black shore, evenings turn the amphitheatre gold, and the only sounds are surf, goats and someone's radio playing morna. The abandoned airstrip at the bay's edge (closed for its terrifying crosswinds) makes a surreal, cinematic walk.
The natural pools and the walk down
Just north of the village, lava has formed natural swimming pools that fill turquoise at mid-to-high tide — safe, sheltered bathing metres from open ocean drama. The classic approach to Fajã is on foot from Nova Sintra: a two-hour cobbled descent with the bay unfolding below, then an aluguer back up. Route detail lives in our Brava hiking guide.
Practical information
- 30–40 minutes by aluguer from Nova Sintra; arrange the return ride.
- A couple of simple guesthouses offer rooms and superb fish dinners.
- Swim only in the pools or on calm days close to shore — ask villagers.
- Bring cash and anything you can't do without; there are no shops.
- Sunset from the airstrip is the island's best free show.
Frequently asked questions
What is Fajã d'Água?
A beautiful coastal village on Brava with a curving bay and natural rock pools at the foot of towering cliffs.
Can you swim at Fajã d'Água?
Yes — in the natural rock pools where the sea washes in, which are the safest spots for a dip.