Arrival at Praia Grande

The sun was just beginning to rise as I made my way to Praia Grande, a remote beach on the island of São Vicente in Cape Verde. The volcanic landscape was a sight to behold, with its rugged beauty and the promise of adventure in the air. As a professional surfer who’s spent years chasing waves across Central America, I was eager to see what this new location had to offer. The 20-minute drive from my hotel was filled with stories of the island’s history and culture, shared by our local guide. It was a perfect introduction to the vibrant life of São Vicente.

Upon arrival, the beach greeted us with its pristine sands and the rhythmic sound of the waves. The air was fresh, and the ocean seemed to call out to me, inviting me to embrace its challenges. I was ready to dive into the experience, to feel the thrill of the waves beneath my board once again.

Surfing with a Local Touch

Our instructor, a local who had grown up surfing these very waves, was a wealth of knowledge and passion. His love for the ocean was infectious, and it reminded me of my own journey and the countless hours spent analyzing wave conditions and perfecting my craft. We started with a brief lesson on the beach, where he shared techniques and tips that were both familiar and new to me.

As we paddled out, the water was cool and inviting. The waves at Praia Grande were different from those I’d encountered in Central America, offering a unique challenge that I was eager to tackle. With each wave I caught, I felt a connection to the island and its people, a reminder of why I fell in love with surfing in the first place.

After a few exhilarating hours in the water, we returned to the beach for a delicious Cape Verdean picnic. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a perfect complement to the morning’s activities. It was a moment to relax, to soak in the sun, and to reflect on the beauty of this island paradise.

Giving Back to the Community

One of the highlights of this experience was the opportunity to support the local community. After our surf session, we visited a nearby kindergarten, where we learned about the education system and the challenges faced by local children. It was a humbling experience, one that added depth to our adventure.

Knowing that a portion of our tour fee would go towards purchasing school supplies for these children made the experience even more rewarding. It was a reminder of the impact we can have as travelers, and the importance of giving back to the communities that welcome us.

As I left Praia Grande, I felt a sense of fulfillment and gratitude. The waves of São Vicente had offered me a new perspective, and the people had shared their stories and their hearts. It was a journey that I would carry with me, a reminder of the power of the ocean and the connections we make along the way.