At a Glance
- RIU Funana Resort in Sal, Cape Verde, sees daily poolside sunbed rush as a playful tradition.
- Santa Maria Beach and local markets offer guests rich cultural and outdoor experiences.
- Resort blends luxury amenities, island tours, and Cape Verdean heritage in one all-inclusive package.
At RIU Funana Resort in Sal, Cape Verde, mornings start with an unusual ritual: the sunbed sprint. Guests gather before sunrise at the gates of the pool area, waiting for staff to unlock access to the prized loungers.
Once the gates open, more than 100 tourists make a playful dash to claim the best spots for a day of basking in the tropical sun.
The scramble, now a well-known tradition, adds to the vibrant vacation atmosphere of the five-star resort.
What might seem like a high-stakes competition is, for most guests, part of the fun—a daily dose of laughter that sets the tone for their stay on the island’s most popular stretch of coastline.
Luxury stay at Santa Maria’s Beachfront hub
Located in the heart of Santa Maria, RIU Funana Resort combines upscale lodging with a full suite of amenities, making it one of Sal’s most sought-after destinations.
Beyond the daily sunbed dash, the resort offers a luxury spa and wellness center, multiple dining options, and curated excursions across the island.
Evenings come alive with themed parties, live music, and all-inclusive dining featuring international cuisines and Cape Verdean flavors.
For many visitors, Santa Maria Beach is the real draw. Just steps away from the resort, this pristine stretch of sand is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling.
The area’s clear waters and consistent breezes make it one of Cape Verde’s most famous seaside playgrounds.
Guests can also explore Santa Maria’s bustling local markets, where fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and Cape Verdean delicacies offer a taste of the island’s rich heritage.
Cafés and seafood restaurants line the nearby streets, providing authentic dining experiences within walking distance.
Beyond the pool: Exploring Sal island
While the sunbed frenzy is a highlight for many, Sal offers a wealth of adventures beyond the resort. Guided tours range from jeep safaris to visits to the island’s iconic salinas—salt flats that have defined local history for centuries.
Travelers can also explore volcanic craters or take boat excursions to nearby islands like Boa Vista or Santiago for wildlife viewing, hiking, and cultural immersion.
For those craving a balance between relaxation and exploration, RIU Funana serves as a perfect launchpad.
The resort’s concierge team arranges fishing trips, cultural tours, and micro-adventures, ensuring guests experience both the island’s natural beauty and its vibrant traditions.
Why visitors keep coming back
The “sunbed wars” may dominate early morning conversations, but the enduring appeal of RIU Funana Resort lies in its combination of comfort, culture, and convenience. Guests enjoy a mix of poolside relaxation, island exploration, and access to Cape Verde’s famed hospitality.
Sal’s warm weather, turquoise waters, and cultural blend of Portuguese and African influences create an idyllic backdrop for an unforgettable holiday.
For many, the morning scramble for sunbeds is just the first step in a day filled with beach adventures, local discoveries, and five-star indulgence.
