Located 350 miles off West Africa in the eastern Atlantic, Cape Verde is notably less touristy than many tropical destinations – ideal for a relaxed adults-only holiday. The 10 islands in the exotic archipelago are all very different, and visiting more than one can enhance your experience. Boa Vista has delightfully sleepy villages and tranquil corners, while Sal offers livelier nightlife and more restaurant choices.
Boasting extensive sandy beaches and fabulous year-round sun with temperatures seldom straying from 25-30C, Cape Verde is ideal for winter sun. There is a good range of hotels for all budgets, from large all-inclusive beach resorts to cosy boutique hotels. The islands are also relatively easy to reach, with direct budget flights from several UK airports.
Known as the Tui Blue Cabo Verde until 13 October 2025, this adults-only oceanfront hotel focuses on wellness. It features two pools, a gym, a spa with sauna, steam room and whirlpool, plus activities like boules, table tennis, shuffleboard and yoga. Fishing, quad tours, stargazing and sunset dinners can be arranged. Three bars, four restaurants and entertainment including DJs, live music and acrobatic shows are on site. Santa Maria’s market, bars and restaurants are three kilometres away; the airport is a 20-minute drive.
Set in a secluded location on the outskirts of Santa Maria, this boutique adult-focused hotel on the beach has only 23 rooms and suites, decorated in breezy blues and whites. It features an inviting infinity pool overlooking the ocean, a chill-out terrace for sunset cocktails, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Asian fusion cuisine with fresh local seafood.
More a highly rated B&B than a hotel, Vila Christina appeals to grown-ups but is not strictly adults-only. It offers budget-friendly accommodation in a peaceful beachfront location, with rooms, villas, studios and bungalows. Surrounded by palm trees, guests can enjoy cocktails on the verandah. A breakfast box is delivered daily, and quality meals are available at the nearby Perola Restaurant.
This 307-room all-inclusive adults-only resort is set on an eight-kilometre sandy beach. Facilities include a watersports station (kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, e-foiling), a gym, group fitness sessions, a rooftop sauna and spa treatments. Football, volleyball and cross boccia are available, along with three restaurants, three bars, live shows and DJs. Rooms have a brown, cream and white palette and could benefit from updating.
