Boa Vista Although nearly three times larger than Sal, Boa Vista is a much quieter island, with Sal Rei as its sleepy capital. Of a more uniform, somewhat pentagonal shape, it measures approximately 31 kms by 29 kms at its longest and widest points. Known as the island of beaches and dunes, it boasts some 55 km of unspoilt beaches with Curralinho beach (better known as Santa Monica) being the largest and most beautiful in Cape Verde. The island is essentially flat, with a barren interior of volcanic formations interspersed with palm filled oases, something of a dramatic extreme. The highest point, Pico d'Estancia, rises 390m above the landscape. An abundance of sand dunes, together with a surface somewhat rusty in colour, gives the island a lunar appearance in places. However, like Sal, the crystal clear, unpolluted waters provide excellent conditions for all forms of water sports. There are significant plans for the development of Boa Vista as its natural beauty has been recognized by the tourist industry and the airport is currently being expanded to accommodate international flights.