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

Hiking to Vale de Gongon – Sierra Malagueta Trail

Hiking to Vale de Gongon – Sierra Malagueta Trail

RM408
per adult
Hiking to Vale de Gongon – Sierra Malagueta Trail
Old Town: Private historical tour with meals and admissions included

Old Town: Private historical tour with meals and admissions included

RM906
per traveller
Old Town: Private historical tour with meals and admissions included
Picture 37 for Activity From Praia: Explore the entire island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings

From Praia: Explore the entire island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings

RM204
per adult
From Praia: Explore the entire island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings
Air image of Tarrafal Beach

Santiago Island Tour - Island Highlights, Local Life and Nature

RM226
per adult
Santiago Island Tour - Island Highlights, Local Life and Nature
4h Guided city tour Praia & Cidade Velha

Praia & Cidade Velha: Guided City Tour

RM204
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Praia & Cidade Velha: Guided City Tour
Plateau Heritage Walk & Panorama Lunch

Praia: Visit Plateau Heritage Walk & Panoramic Views

RM453
per adult
Praia: Visit Plateau Heritage Walk & Panoramic Views
Santiago ISLAND TOUR by Aventour - Nature & Local Life Tour

Santiago Island Tour with Aventour: Nature and Local Life

RM272
per adult
Santiago Island Tour with Aventour: Nature and Local Life
Serra Malagueta Natural Park Hike & Relaxing Swim at Tarrafal Beach

Serra Malagueta Natural Park Hike & Relaxing Swim at Tarrafal Beach

RM408
per adult
Serra Malagueta Natural Park Hike & Relaxing Swim at Tarrafal Beach
From Praia: Discover Santiago Island in 1 Day

From Praia: Discover Santiago Island in 1 Day

RM358
per adult
From Praia: Discover Santiago Island in 1 Day
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Most popular experiences in Santa Cruz

Tours & day trips

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From Praia: Explore the entire island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings

From Praia: Explore the entire island of Santiago in 1 day with tastings

Activity duration is 8 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 11 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 203 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 22 activities
Black Sand Beach & Natural Pool – Scenic Adventure

Black Sand Beach & Natural Pool – Scenic Adventure

Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 452 per adult
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Classes & workshops

See all 9 activities
Best Pottery Class on Santiago Island

Best Pottery Class on Santiago Island

Activity duration is 4 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 542 per adult
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Wildlife & nature

See all 6 activities
Beach: Boat Ride to Águas Belas Cave with Lunch & BBQ

Beach: Boat Ride to Águas Belas Cave with Lunch & BBQ

Activity duration is 6 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 325 per adult
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Water activities

See all 4 activities
Boat Trip to Aguas Belas Cave + Barbecue

Boat Trip to Aguas Belas Cave + Barbecue

Activity duration is 4 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 542 per adult
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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.