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Shark Bay: A Nursery for Lemon Sharks
Observe lemon sharks in their natural habitat at Shark Bay, a unique and unforgettable experience on Sal Island, Cape Verde.
Shark Bay, located in Feijoal, Cape Verde, is a unique coastal area where visitors can observe lemon sharks in their natural habitat. The bay's shallow waters and rocky shoreline provide a safe haven for juvenile sharks, making it a popular spot for tourists seeking a close encounter with these fascinating creatures.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Shark Bay
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
P4Q4+HFR, Feijoal, CV
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Espargos, take a local minibus (aluguer) towards Sal Rei or Feijoal. These minibuses can be found at the main bus station near the center of Espargos. The ride to Feijoal takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Inform the driver you wish to get off at Shark Bay. From the drop-off point in Feijoal, walk towards the coastline, following signs to Shark Bay. The fare is very affordable, typically a few euros.
Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Sal Island, particularly in tourist areas like Santa Maria. A taxi from Santa Maria to Shark Bay will take approximately 25 minutes. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey, as fixed prices are common. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for a one-way trip.
Walking
From the main square in Santa Maria, walk towards the beach and along Avenida 5 de Julho. Continue until you reach the sandy shores of Santa Maria beach, then turn left and follow the coastline for about 2 kilometers until you see a sign for Shark Bay. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes.
Local tips
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Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the rocky bottom and sea urchins.
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Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
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Consider renting water shoes on site if you don't have your own.
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Bring a camera to capture the unique experience of seeing sharks in their natural habitat.
Discover more about Shark Bay
Shark Bay, situated near Feijoal on Sal Island, Cape Verde, offers a remarkable opportunity to witness lemon sharks in their natural environment. This bay is not a typical sandy beach but rather a shallow, rocky coastline that serves as a nursery for young lemon sharks. The shallow waters provide protection from predators, allowing the juvenile sharks to thrive.
Visitors can enter the water and observe the sharks up close, often seeing dozens of them swimming around their legs. The sharks, which can grow up to 3.4 meters long, are generally harmless to humans. However, it's advisable to wear water shoes due to the rocky bottom and potential sea urchins. Some local guides lure the sharks closer by feeding them fresh fish entrails.
While the main attraction is the lemon sharks, Shark Bay also offers a serene natural setting with clear waters and unique rock formations. The surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna. It's a place to connect with nature and appreciate the biodiversity of Cape Verde.
A brief summary to Shark Bay
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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