Boa Vista: Lobster Lunch at Santa Monica Beach

This review covers the popular Lobster Lunch at Santa Monica Beach experience on Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and local insights paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this half-day excursion.

This experience is ideal if you’re craving fresh seafood in a breathtaking setting, love lazy beach days, and want a taste of local life. We particularly like the focus on authentic grilled lobster, the stunning views of Santa Monica Beach, and the chance to mix relaxation with cultural flavor.

One thing to consider is the price point—for $111 per person, it’s a solid culinary and scenic experience, but travelers seeking an ultra-value or more extensive tour may want to weigh options.

This outing suits travelers who enjoy culinary delights, beach strolling, or simply want to escape the crowds for a laid-back, picture-perfect afternoon.

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Key Points

Authentic local cuisine with freshly grilled lobster in a stunning beachfront setting
Relaxing time to swim, sunbathe, or walk along 12 km of pristine sand
Scenic, authentic experience at Santa Monica Beach, one of Cape Verde’s most beautiful spots
Knowledgeable guides and friendly staff enhance the laid-back vibe
Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
The price reflects a combination of quality food, beautiful scenery, and local culture

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Tour All About?

This Lobster Lunch at Santa Monica Beach is a half-day adventure designed to combine culinary delight with breathtaking scenery. Offered by Boavista Go – Tours & Expeditions, the tour features a pick-up from your hotel around 1 pm, with a return around 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to unwind and soak in the beauty of Boa Vista.

The star of the experience is the fresh lobster, grilled in traditional style over charcoal. Historically, Boca Beach Club—the restaurant where this happens—used to be a fishermen’s boat and nets house, adding an authentic touch to the whole outing. Today, it’s a cozy, family-run spot known for its seafood and relaxed vibe.

Santa Monica Beach, stretching 12 kilometers with powder-white sands and crystal-clear waters, is the backdrop for this feast. Reviewers frequently mention how lucky they felt to have a table facing the sea while enjoying their meal, making every bite feel like part of the scenery.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Boa Vista Island

The Experience Itself: Step by Step

The Ride and Welcome

Your day begins with hotel pickup, where friendly staff from Boavista Go will ensure your comfort on the journey to the restaurant, located at the southern tip of Santa Monica Beach. The drive provides a glimpse of Boa Vista’s rugged beauty, with arid landscapes giving way to the lush coastal scene.

Arriving at Boca Beach Club

The restaurant itself is a charming, rustic spot with history—its kitchen used to serve fishermen, and it’s now a hub for seafood lovers. Many reviews highlight the personalized service—owners often pick up guests directly from their hotels, making you feel like a guest in a local home rather than just another tourist.

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Lobster Feast

The main attraction is the charcoal-grilled lobster, prepared in traditional Cape Verdean style. Some reviews note that while the tour focuses on lobster, there are also local seafood options like crawfish, which are described as “super delicious” by past guests. The meal usually includes a generous portion, accompanied by local sides and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

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Scenic Free Time

Post-meal, you get several hours of free time. You can hop into the crystal-clear waters for a swim, sunbathe on the sands, or take a stroll along the expansive beach. The reef in front of Boca Beach is a notable snorkeling spot with abundant fish—making it an appealing detour if you love aquatic adventures.

Optional Snorkeling & Relaxation

While the main focus is the lobster lunch, many guests find the beach itself the highlight—it’s one of Cape Verde’s most beautiful beaches, according to reviews, with soft sands and inviting waters. The time allows for just enough leisure without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What makes this experience stand out is its emphasis on local traditions and scenery. The restaurant’s history as a fisherman’s hub adds an authentic touch, and the presence of fishermen bringing in fresh catches adds a sense of freshness and connection to local life.

Guests have noted that the fishermen’s reef offers a perfect snorkeling opportunity, and the laid-back atmosphere is a far cry from the more commercialized tourist spots. It’s a chance to experience Cape Verde’s maritime culture without straying too far from comfort.

Value for Money

At $111 per person, this tour offers a strong value considering the quality of food, the scenic setting, and the personalized service. The reviews reflect appreciation for the delicious lobster, with some guests describing the meal as “super tasty,” and the friendly owners who make you feel welcome.

Some travelers might find the cost a bit high if they’re on a tight budget, but most agree that the experience is worth it for the chance to unwind on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches while enjoying a top-notch seafood meal.

Reviews and What Travelers Say

Guest reviews provide useful insights—many highlight the beautiful setting and friendly staff. For example, one guest raved, “Great lobster, in a picturesque setting,” emphasizing the scenic views and quality of the seafood.

Another reviewer, Sandrine, shared that she had a “very good time on a beautiful beach” and appreciated having a sea-facing table with the lobster meal.

Some comments mention the overpriced perception, but even critics agree the food was nice and the location stunning. A guest, Jürgen, noted that although there’s no lobster—“but super delicious crawfish”—the overall experience was highly recommended.

A few mention the personal touch of guides or owners, such as being picked up personally and on time, which enhances the relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to make the most of your beach time.
The tour is suitable for those who want a relaxed, scenic day with delicious local food.
Reservation flexibility is available—book now to secure your spot, and pay later if you prefer.
You’ll be collected around 1 pm and returned by 5 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
The experience includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, simplifying logistics.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for an authentic Cape Verdean seafood feast in a stunning natural setting. It’s ideal for beach lovers, foodies who appreciate fresh, grilled seafood, and travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic escape.

While not the cheapest option, the combination of delicious food, beautiful scenery, and personalized service offers good value for those wanting a memorable, relaxed day on Boa Vista.

It’s especially suited for visitors who want a taste of local culture without the hassle of organizing their own logistics, and for those who enjoy free time on pristine beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, making the experience easy and convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to enjoy the beach comfortably during your free time.

When do I need to book?
You can reserve your spot in advance with the option to pay later; cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately from 1 pm to 5 pm, giving ample time for a meal, relaxation, and scenery.

What food is served?
The highlight is grilled lobster, but there are also options like delicious crawfish, supporting local seafood traditions.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a relaxed, scenic experience that can accommodate families, especially those who enjoy beach days and seafood.

Final Thoughts

The Boa Vista Lobster Lunch at Santa Monica Beach offers a thoughtful mix of authentic seafood, stunning natural beauty, and local charm that makes it stand out. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic meal in a beautiful setting, with enough free time to unwind and explore.

While the price might be a consideration, many find the quality of the food and the breathtaking views more than worth it. This experience is best suited for those who value authentic local flavors, scenic landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere—perfect for a peaceful, memorable day on Boa Vista.

You can check availability for your dates here: