Praia de Varandinha, Cabo Verde: History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
Located on the island of Boa Vista in the beautiful country of Cabo Verde, Praia de Varandinha is a stunning beach with a rich history and plenty of things to do. This idyllic beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it’s easy to see why. From its stunningly clear waters to its picturesque landscape, Praia de Varandinha has something for everyone.
History of Praia de Varandinha
Praia de Varandinha is a beach located on the southwest coast of Boa Vista, the third largest island in Cabo Verde. It is believed that the beach was named after the Varandinha River, which flows into the ocean near the beach. The beach has been a popular destination for locals and tourists for centuries, and it is believed that the first settlers to inhabit the area were the Phoenicians, who arrived in the 5th century BC.
The area around Praia de Varandinha has a long and fascinating history. During the 15th century, the island was colonized by the Portuguese, who built a fort at the beach to protect the island from pirates. The fort, known as Forte de Varandinha, still stands today and is a popular tourist attraction.
In the 19th century, Praia de Varandinha was a major trading port, and it was here that the famous explorer Vasco da Gama stopped on his journey to India. The area was also home to a thriving slave trade, and the nearby village of Santa Maria was a major hub for the slave trade.
In the 20th century, Praia de Varandinha became a popular destination for tourists, and the area has since become a major tourist attraction. The beach is now a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and it is also home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Amazing Facts about Praia de Varandinha
Praia de Varandinha is a beautiful beach with a lot to offer. Here are some amazing facts about the beach:
• Praia de Varandinha is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo Verde. The beach has crystal clear waters and white sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• The beach is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks.
• The nearby village of Santa Maria is home to a thriving fishing industry, and it is here that the famous explorer Vasco da Gama stopped on his journey to India.
• The area around Praia de Varandinha was once a major hub for the slave trade.
• The nearby Forte de Varandinha was built in the 15th century to protect the island from pirates.
Things to Do at Praia de Varandinha
Praia de Varandinha is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and there are plenty of things to do at the beach. Here are some of the best things to do at Praia de Varandinha:
• Swimming and sunbathing: Praia de Varandinha has crystal clear waters and white sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Snorkeling: The beach is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks. Snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world.
• Fishing: The nearby village of Santa Maria is home to a thriving fishing industry, and it is here that you can find some of the freshest fish in Cabo Verde.
• Shopping: The beach is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to pick up some souvenirs.
• Exploring the Forte de Varandinha: The nearby fort was built in the 15th century to protect the island from pirates. Exploring the fort is a great way to learn about the history of the area.
Praia de Varandinha is a stunning beach with a lot to offer. From its crystal clear waters and white sand to its fascinating history, Praia de Varandinha is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Cabo Verde. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the underwater world, or learn about the area’s history, Praia de Varandinha has something for everyone.