The fishing village of Tarrafal is small but bustling, with a constant stream of fishing boats coming to sell their fresh catch on the streets and in restaurants. From the beaches further north in the bay, you can easily swim to a beautiful snorkeling spot. With a bit of luck, you might spot turtles and the (harmless) nurse shark.

Enjoy lunch at the family-run restaurants Bia or Raio d'Sol, where they'll fill your table with local dishes for a fixed price. From Tarrafal, you can also easily take a taxi or bus to the other hotspots on this list. Great, because you won't need that much time here.

Besides its impressive natural beauty, São Nicolau also boasts a few cultural attractions: the mountain village of Ribeira Brava. This small village's colonial past is undeniable; its colorful buildings and narrow streets contrast sharply with Tarrafal, thanks to the Portuguese presence on the island in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Soak up the tranquil village life in the central square, explore the small shops and restaurants, and visit the local market. Ribeira Brava, as a mountain village, is a perfect attraction to combine with walks in the surrounding countryside.