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1Praia Banana
The classic. Seen from the lookout at Roça Belo Monte, the beach is a perfect yellow curve between two rocky points, fringed with coconut palms. Down on the sand the water is clear and usually calm enough for swimming, with snorkelling around the rocks at either end.
ℹ️ Free. Reached by a track and path from Belo Monte, about 30 min from Santo António. No facilities.
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2Praia Boi
A deep, quiet cove east of Praia Banana, enclosed by forested slopes. It feels more remote than its neighbour and is often completely empty. Good for a picnic and a swim when the sea is calm.
ℹ️ On foot or by boat; the path from Belo Monte takes roughly 30–45 min. Go with a guide.
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3Praia Macaco
“Monkey Beach” is a broad sweep of sand backed by tall forest, where mona monkeys are sometimes heard in the trees. Waves can be stronger here, and it has a wilder, more open feel.
ℹ️ Walk from Belo Monte or arrive by boat. Check sea conditions before swimming.
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4The beach at Sundy
Below Roça Sundy on the north-west coast, a long beach of golden sand faces the sunset, with boulders at one end and dense forest behind. The tented villas of the Sundy Praia lodge are hidden in the trees; the sand itself is open to all.
ℹ️ By car from Roça Sundy on a steep track, or as a lodge guest. About 35–45 min from Santo António.
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5Praia das Burras
A working fishing beach on the north-east coast, lined with canoes and wooden houses. It is the place to see the island’s fishing life up close and to buy fish straight from the boat.
ℹ️ By road, a short drive from the airport area. Ask before taking photographs.
More beaches
- Bom Bom: two beaches either side of a headland at the northern tip, joined by a wooden walkway to a small islet. Sheltered swimming and snorkelling.
- Praia Grande: a long beach on the east coast and Príncipe’s main turtle-nesting site, with guided night visits in season.
- Praia Margarida and Praia Uba: small coves in the north-west, usually reached by boat or on foot.
- Praia Seca and the south: remote beaches reached only by boat, often combined with Baía das Agulhas.
Sea safety
There are no lifeguards anywhere on Príncipe. Swim close to shore, avoid river mouths after heavy rain and stay out if waves are breaking hard. Never leave children unattended.
