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©Rui Almeida Fotografia/Getty Images

Praia Bateria

Top choice in São Tomé


So perfect it stops you in your tracks, this cute little beach is a scallop of sand wedged between long walls of rock. Swimming here is like being in your own private bath. Definitely the couple's first choice, you'll either have it to yourself or you won't want to intrude on someone else.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby São Tomé attractions

1. Praia Café

0.63 MILES

In the running for island's best beach, Praia Cafė is a short walk from the pier, and should not be missed. A beautiful arc of sand, it also offers…

2. Marco do Equador

0.71 MILES

While a bit worse for wear, this hillside map of the world, with the real world's equator running through it, does allow you to stand astride the primary…

3. Cão Pequeno

7.97 MILES

The diminutive sibling of Cão Grande, this phonolite tower is best seen from Ilhėu das Rolas.

4. Cão Grande

9.3 MILES

The Great Canine is the poster image of São Tomé, and an awesome sight. An enormous tooth of rock 663m high, it is a hardened column of magma, the remains…

5. Pico de São Tomé

18.81 MILES

This impressive peak soars 2024m above the sea like a great green tooth bleeding mist. You can see it best from the EN-1 as you drive from Neves to Santa…

6. Praia das Sete Ondas

19.63 MILES

This long and shallow gray-sand beach produces many rows of waves, hence 'Seven Waves Beach'. It's good for kids, beginner surfers, and a long beach walk,…

7. Boca do Inferno

21.11 MILES

The much-advertised 'Mouth of Hell' blowhole on the seaward side of the EN-2, just after the Km17 marker, has lost its spark. Those on Ilhėu das Rolas are…

8. Jardim Botânico

21.45 MILES

This botanical garden has scores of different species, many with medicinal uses. The personal tours here are excellent, with much local lore and history…