Praia dos Sete Ondas
A beach on São Tomé's south coast named for the pattern the swell breaks in.
Updated 3 September 2026
Praia dos Sete Ondas, the beach of seven waves, takes its name from the way the swell arrives on this stretch of São Tomé's south coast in sets, and the surf here is heavier than on the sheltered northern side. The sand is dark and the forest comes down close behind it. Fishing pirogues are pulled up along the shore and the villages nearby work the water rather than the beach.
The landscape
- The wave sets - the pattern of swell the beach is named for.
- The dark sand - the volcanic beach on the island's south coast.
- The pirogues - the fishing craft pulled up along the shore.
- The forest edge - the trees coming down close behind the sand.
When to go
June to September is the drier gravana season. Swell is heavier on this coast than the north at any time. Weekends bring local visitors.
Before you go
The surf and undertow here are stronger than on the northern beaches and swimming needs care. There are no facilities. The track down is rough.
Nearby
São João dos Angolares is north, and Praia Jalé is southwest.
What to pack for Praia dos Sete Ondas
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Travel rod + reel - A packable multi-piece rod fits in a case and covers most holiday fishing. Find on Amazon
- Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
- Quick-dry clothing - Board shorts or synthetics that shrug off spray and dry fast. Find on Amazon
- A small tackle selection - Hooks, weights, line and a few lures or flies suited to local waters. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
