Black Beach is an isolated shore near Cabocan with dark sand, volcanic rocks and intense sea. Perfect for exploring, photographing and enjoying silence. It has no services or easy access, but offers a wild, completely different experience compared to the island’s usual beaches.
Black Beach, Cabocan – Sal Island
The first time I heard about Black Beach, I imagined something dramatic, almost cinematic—“volcano + mystery + giant wave” kind of scene. Then I arrived after walking through dry shrubs and rocks, and realised the drama is yours… if you show up without water or shade. This is where the island reminds you that nature plays by its own rules.
General description
Black Beach sits near the settlement of Cabocan, not in Santa Maria as some confused maps insist. It’s a raw, solitary beach with grey-to-black volcanic sand, a reminder of the island’s geological past. Don’t expect Iceland-level pure black; here the colour shifts depending on the sun, the wind, and your personal level of drama.
The area is known because in certain sections turtles nest between June and October, which explains why some parts are protected and monitored. Night visits are a terrible idea: you could disturb the turtles… or trip over more rocks than your dignity can handle.
The sea is gorgeous but sneaky. Turquoise water? Yes. Rocky bottom? Also yes. And waves with more personality than expected. Sometimes you’ll find an empty, peaceful landscape; other times a couple of kitesurfers trying to make the wind behave.
How to get there
To reach it, you must drive to Cabocan and then walk roughly two kilometres along a simple but very hot trail. If you come thinking “it’s just a short walk”, prepare to rethink that by minute three.
No direct road, no public transport, no friendly signage. Still, it’s hard to get lost if you follow the coast and your instinct of “where the wind is coming from”.
Some visitors arrive by bicycle, others wish they had come by helicopter. You choose your adventure level.
What to do
Black Beach is for those who enjoy exploring, observing, and breathing silence.
The sea here is not ideal for relaxed swimming: strong waves + rocky bottom = real caution. But it’s perfect for:
- Photographing dark sand and volcanic rocks shining under the sun.
- Walking through an almost lunar landscape.
- Watching birds and, in season, turtles nesting (with authorised guides only).
- Enjoying a beach that is usually completely empty, except for the occasional dog patrolling like it owns the place.
A typical visit lasts between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on your fascination with colours, textures, and absolute quiet.
Practical tips
There are no services here, and when I say none, I mean absolute zero.
Bring everything: water, food, sunscreen, hat, a bit of shade, and above all, proper footwear.
The rocks in the water are serious business, so water shoes are essential if you plan to get close to the sea.
If you come at night, only with authorisation and a guide. Turtle protection is strict, and rightly so.
And a small reminder: not a beach for kids, or for anyone looking for calm, pool-like waters.
Best time to visit
During the day, especially early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is kinder and your determination doesn’t melt.
During turtle season (June–October), the experience can be more interesting but also more regulated.
On strong windy days, the scenery is spectacular… and your hairstyle becomes a secondary concern.
Is it worth it?
It depends on what you’re after. If you want beach bars, loungers, or a perfect Instagram beach, this is not the one.
If you enjoy raw, unfiltered places where nature sets the tempo and you just try to keep up, you’ll like Black Beach.
It’s a beach that doesn’t try to impress you. And maybe that’s exactly why it does.
