Murdeira is Sal's quiet corner: a sheltered bay on the west coast, halfway between the airport and Santa Maria, developed with villas and low-rise resorts rather than big beachfront hotels. It suits people who want calm, space and a pool, and who are happy to drive for a restaurant.
Murdeira at a glance
| Where | West coast of Sal, between Espargos and Santa Maria |
|---|---|
| Best for | Families, longer stays, returning visitors, self-catering |
| Not for | Beach walks, nightlife, car-free holidays |
| Swimming | Calm bay, but a rocky shore; most people use pools |
| Getting around | Hire car recommended; taxis must be called |
The bay and the setting
Murdeira Bay is sheltered from the trade winds that batter Sal's east coast, so the water is usually calm and clear. It forms part of a protected marine area, and turtles and dolphins are seen offshore; boat trips from Santa Maria often run along this coast.
The shoreline itself is rocky rather than sandy. This is a place for pools, sunsets over the water and quiet, not for the long sand walks you get at Santa Maria beach.
Staying in Murdeira
Accommodation is mostly villas, apartments and a resort complex, much of it self-catering, which appeals to families, longer-stay visitors and people who return every year. Many properties have private or shared pools and sea views across the bay.
Understand the trade-off before you book: it is peaceful and attractive, but there is little within walking distance. Plan on a hire car, or on taxis for every meal out. See where to stay on Sal for the alternatives.
Getting there and around
- About 10 minutes from the airport and 15 from Santa Maria.
- Hire a car if you stay here; see car rental.
- Stock up in Espargos, which has the island's larger supermarkets, if you are self-catering.
- Taxis are available but usually have to be called rather than hailed. See taxis and aluguers.
- Everything else on Sal is within half an hour: Pedra de Lume, the Blue Eye, Shark Bay and Palmeira.
Tours and trips from Murdeira
Most tours pick up across the island, including Murdeira. Check pick-up points when you book; prices are shown on GetYourGuide.
Sal island tour with a local guide
- About 6 hours, hotel pick-up
- Buracona Blue Eye, Pedra de Lume salt crater, Palmeira
- Private option available
Catamaran trip from Santa Maria
- Sail along Sal's west coast
- Swim and snorkelling stop
- Pick-up available
Quad and buggy tours on Sal
- Off-road to the wild side of the island
- Small groups with a local guide
- Pick-up in Santa Maria
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Frequently asked questions
Is Murdeira a good place to stay on Sal?
Yes if you want quiet, space and a villa or apartment with a pool, and you do not mind driving or taking a taxi to eat out. If you want restaurants and nightlife on your doorstep, stay in Santa Maria.
Can you swim at Murdeira?
The bay is sheltered and calmer than the exposed east coast, but the shore is rocky rather than sandy. Most guests swim in their pool and use the bay for views, kayaking and boat trips.
How far is Murdeira from the airport and Santa Maria?
About 10 minutes from Sal's airport and roughly 15 minutes from Santa Maria by car.
Is there a supermarket or restaurant in Murdeira?
Very little. The resort complexes have small shops and a restaurant or two; for a proper supermarket, drive to Espargos, and for a choice of restaurants, to Santa Maria.
Do you need a car in Murdeira?
It makes life much easier. Taxis must usually be called rather than hailed, so a hire car saves waiting, especially if you are self-catering.
Are there dolphins and turtles in Murdeira Bay?
The bay is part of a protected marine area and dolphins and turtles are seen here. Boat trips from Santa Maria often pass along this stretch of coast.