Things to do in Santa Cruz

Activities, attractions and tours

A lush green valley with terraced fields and scattered houses.
A beach with a row of sun loungers and a few people in the distance.

Things to do

Picture 11 for Activity Walking Tour: Street arts, Markets, church & Flavours

Walking Tour: Street arts, Markets, History and Architecture

€10
per adult
Walking Tour: Street arts, Markets, History and Architecture
From Praia: Fully explore the island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings

From Praia: Fully explore the island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings

€55
per adult
From Praia: Fully explore the island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings
Air image of Tarrafal Beach

Santiago Island Tour - Island Highlights, Local Life and Nature

€45
per adult
Santiago Island Tour - Island Highlights, Local Life and Nature
Santiago Island Experience - Culture, Nature & Tarrafal Beach

Santiago Island Experience - Culture, Nature & Tarrafal Beach

€113
per adult
Santiago Island Experience - Culture, Nature & Tarrafal Beach
Shore Excursion: 3-Hour Guided Historic Tour of Praia & Cidade Velha

Shore Excursion: 3-Hour Guided Historic Tour of Praia & Cidade Velha

€55
per adult
Shore Excursion: 3-Hour Guided Historic Tour of Praia & Cidade Velha
Hiking to Gongon Valley

Hiking to Vale de Gongon – Sierra Malagueta Trail

€90
per adult
Hiking to Vale de Gongon – Sierra Malagueta Trail
Santiago Island: Banana Plantation, Natural Park & Workshop with a local family

Santiago Island: Banana Plantation, Natural Park & Workshop with a local family

€75
per adult
Santiago Island: Banana Plantation, Natural Park & Workshop with a local family
Santiago ISLAND TOUR by Aventour - Nature & Local Life Tour

Santiago ISLAND TOUR by Aventour - Nature & Local Life Tour

€60
per adult
Santiago ISLAND TOUR by Aventour - Nature & Local Life Tour
4h Guided city tour Praia & Cidade Velha

Praia & Cidade Velha: Guided City Tour

€45
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Praia & Cidade Velha: Guided City Tour
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What to do in Santa Cruz

Stay near popular Santa Cruz attractions

Pedra Badejo Beach

8.0/10 (31 reviews)
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Pedra Badejo Beach during your travels in Santa Cruz? Discover the area's museums and shops.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Cruz worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Santa Cruz. Remember to discover the area's blend of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Santa Cruz?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mangue Beach and Grandvaux Barbosa National Botanical Garden. Then, tour other areas of Santa Cruz for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Cruz?
Mangue Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Santa Cruz and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Cruz?
Three days is enough for a short break in Santa Cruz — you'll tick off the main attractions and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you want to truly experience it all, stay for at least seven to ten days to explore the surrounding areas too.
What are some activities to do in Santa Cruz with kids?
If you're looking for tours and attractions for all the family, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Santa Cruz with kids.
What to do in Santa Cruz for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor explorer, there's no shortage of things to do in Santa Cruz for adults including Tabanka Museum and Poilão Dam.
Are there free things to do in Santa Cruz?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Santa Cruz. If you're in need of ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Mangue Beach is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing adventures.