Salinas de Pedra de Lume is a place that takes your breath away from the very first glance. Imagine a volcanic crater that exploded centuries ago and is now filled with a salt lake 26 times more salty than the ocean. This is no exaggeration – the water here is so dense with salt that you literally float on its surface without any effort. Children will be delighted by this unusual experience, which resembles levitation. Salt haystacks mature here for three months under the relentless African sun, forming white crystals on the crater's edges. The history of this place dates back to colonial times – the remains of an old cable car that transported salt to the port can still be seen on the slopes of the crater. It is a living monument to the island's industrial past, which for decades lived off the export of this white gold.

Reaching the crater is an adventure in itself. You descend steep stairs carved into volcanic rock, and the temperature gradually rises. At the bottom of the crater, an extraordinary view awaits you - a turquoise expanse of water surrounded by white salt deposits and black basalt walls. Entering the water requires courage, as the temperature can be quite high, but the effect is worth it. Parents can safely watch their children floating on the surface – drowning in such water is practically impossible. However, remember to wear water shoes, as the salt crystals can be sharp. After bathing, your skin will become extremely smooth – the minerals have skin care properties that have been known since ancient times.

Not far from Pedra de Lume is Duna de Sal – fascinating salt dunes formed by the natural deposition of salt carried by the wind from nearby salt pans. This place is less frequented by tourists, ideal for families seeking peace and quiet. The white hills contrast with the black volcanic sand and blue ocean, creating a surreal landscape. Children love to climb these small hills and run down them, leaving footprints on the salty surface. It is also a great place for a geography lesson in the field - here you can explain to children how salt pans are formed and why salt was once as valuable as gold.

Salina, located near Santa Maria, is another place associated with the island's salt history. These traditional salt pans are still in operation, although on a much smaller scale than in the past. Here, you can observe the process of salt extraction - seawater flows into shallow pools, where it evaporates under the influence of the sun and wind, leaving white crystals. It is a living museum of traditional production methods that have survived for centuries. A walk among the salt pans at sunset, when the light paints everything gold and pink, is an unforgettable experience. Wading birds often visit these pools, looking for food in the salt water - an added attraction for young nature observers.

Buracona - Blue Eye Cave is one of the most magical places on the island of Sal. This natural lava cave was formed thousands of years ago when hot lava came into contact with the cold ocean, creating underground tunnels and chambers. The main attraction is a 24-meter-deep pool, which at noon, when the sun is high, shimmers with an incredible electric blue. Light penetrates through a hole in the rock and reflects off the sandy bottom, creating an effect that must be seen with your own eyes. The name 'Blue Eye' is well deserved - the water really resembles the iris of the eye in a shade that cannot be reproduced in photographs.

Surrounding the main cave are natural pools carved into the black volcanic rock, where you can swim safely even with small children. Ocean waves regularly flood these natural tubs, refreshing the water and creating exciting moments as children wait for the next wave. It is the perfect place for the little ones to have their first contact with the ocean - the pools are shallow and the water is warm. Older children can snorkel in the deeper parts, watching the small fish that hide in the rock crevices. The black lava contrasts with the turquoise water, creating a dramatic landscape that looks like something from another planet.

Shark Bay sounds dangerous, but it is actually one of the safest and most educational attractions on the island. This shallow lagoon on the east coast is a natural nursery for young lemon sharks. These small sharks, often less than a meter long, come here to grow up safely in the warm, shallow water. Marine biologists conduct research here and educate tourists about the importance of protecting these amazing creatures. Children can wade knee-deep into the water and watch the sharks swim around their legs—an experience that forever changes their perspective on these often demonized animals.

The water in Shark Bay is crystal clear, so visibility is excellent. Lemon sharks are non-aggressive and accustomed to human presence—they ignore tourists, focusing on hunting small fish. This is an ideal opportunity to teach children respect for wildlife and to understand that sharks are not monsters from movies, but an important part of the ocean ecosystem. Guides recommend water shoes as the bottom can be rocky, but otherwise there are no special requirements. The best time to visit is in the morning when the water is calm and the sharks are most active.

Calheta Funda in Murdeira is another gem for families. This protected lagoon offers calm, shallow waters ideal for children learning to swim. Natural rock formations form a barrier against the ocean waves, so the water is always calm here. The sandy beach slopes gently into the water, and the depth increases very slowly—you can walk several dozen meters into the ocean, and the water will still only reach your knees. It is a paradise for parents of young children, who can relax knowing that their little ones are safe. The water here has an amazing turquoise hue, and the visibility allows you to see the bottom and swimming fish even without a mask.

Project Biodiversity in Santa Maria is an organization that has been working for years to protect sea turtles on the island of Sal. The beaches of Cabo Verde are one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead turtles in the Atlantic. From June to October, females come ashore to lay their eggs in the warm sand. Project Biodiversity organizes night patrols during which volunteers protect the nests from predators and monitor the hatching process. Families can join these patrols in small groups, which ensures privacy and minimizes stress for the turtles. It is an unforgettable experience to watch a powerful turtle laboriously dig a hole in the sand, lay dozens of eggs, and then return to the ocean.

Even more moving is the moment of hatching, when hundreds of tiny hatchlings emerge from the sand and instinctively head toward the ocean, drawn by the glow of the moon reflecting off the water. Biologists from Project Biodiversity explain to children the life cycle of turtles, the threats they face, and why it is so important to protect them. It is a lesson in biology, ecology, and responsibility for the planet all in one. The organization also runs a hatchery where the most endangered nests are protected—you can visit it and see the little turtles just before they are released into the ocean.

The Turtle Foundation Boa Esperança camp is another turtle conservation initiative operating in the northern part of the island. This research camp works with local hotels, such as RIU Funana, to protect beaches that are natural nesting sites. The foundation conducts long-term research on the turtle population, tagging individuals and tracking their migrations. Guests can visit the camp, learn more about the work of scientists, and see the equipment used for research. It is a fascinating insight into the work of marine biologists and a great inspiration for children interested in science and environmental protection.

Pachamama Eco Park - Viveiro Botanical Garden is a green oasis in the heart of the island. This botanical garden is a project of love for nature, where local flora and fauna coexist in harmony. Strolling along the paths among exotic plants, you can encounter colorful birds, lizards, and butterflies. It is a peaceful place, perfect for a break from the sun and the beach. The garden also has a bar serving fresh juices and local snacks. Children can run around on the lawns, discover different plant species, and learn about the importance of biodiversity. The owners are passionate about telling you about each plant, its origin, and its use in traditional medicine or cuisine.

For families looking for a bit of adrenaline, Zipline Cabo Verde in Serra Negra offers the only zip line on the island. This attraction combines excitement with beautiful views of the volcanic landscapes of Sal. The route runs over a valley, offering panoramic views of the mountains, ocean, and desert plains. It is a safe activity for children from around 6 years of age (depending on height and weight), led by qualified instructors. The equipment is modern and regularly inspected. Before the descent, the instructors carefully explain the safety rules and technique. It is a great way to see the island from a completely different perspective and feel the thrill of excitement in safe conditions.

All these places have one thing in common: respect for nature and a desire to protect it. Despite its growing popularity with tourists, Sal Island still retains its wild character. Local organizations and entrepreneurs understand that nature is the island's greatest treasure and strive to promote responsible tourism. By visiting these places, you not only provide your family with unforgettable experiences, but also support local environmental initiatives. It is a journey that teaches, inspires, and leaves a positive mark—both in the hearts of your children and in the island's ecosystem.