Vila do Maio, also known as Porto Inglês, is the small, sun-bleached capital of Maio — one of the quietest and least developed islands in Cape Verde, and all the better for it.
The town
Life here moves slowly around a pretty painted church, a handful of shops and cafés, and the Forte de São José by the water. The town beach, Bitche Rotcha, is a lovely stretch of pale sand right on the doorstep.
Why come
Maio is for travellers who want empty beaches, warm locals and nothing to do but relax. Vila do Maio is the base for the island's guesthouses and the starting point for beach-hopping tours.
Around the town
Vila do Maio (Porto Inglês) rises from its pier in a few gridded streets of low, brightly washed houses to the twin-towered white church of Nossa Senhora da Luz on the square — the island's postcard. Mornings are the moment: boats land the catch on the town beach, the small market trades, and the bakery smell drifts across the plaza. By afternoon the town settles into the deep, contented quiet that is Maio's entire sales pitch.
Beaches within walking distance
The town beach, Praia de Bitxe Rotxa, is sheltered, sandy and fine for a swim. Walk twenty minutes north past the old fort and salt flats and you reach the start of Praia do Morro — kilometres of pale, empty sand where your footprints are usually the only ones. See our Maio beaches guide for the full coastline.
Practical information
- The ferry from Praia docks at the pier; the airstrip is minutes away (flights are limited).
- ATM on the square — but bring backup cash; it empties.
- A handful of restaurants serve excellent, simple fish; evenings are early.
- Aluguers and hire cars for island loops gather near the market.
- Sleeping options: where to stay on Maio.
Frequently asked questions
What is Vila do Maio?
Also called Porto Inglês, it's the small, quiet capital of Maio, with a colourful church and a fine town beach at Bitche Rotcha.
How do you get to Maio?
By domestic flight or ferry from Praia on Santiago; Maio is one of Cape Verde's least developed islands.