Pet-friendly hotels and homes in Santa Cruz

Okay, this is a true gem. If you just look for a tropical paradise, look no further. The property is right on the beach, and what beach it is! Totally clean, wide, sandy, with roaring waves that put you to sleep each night. At night, in winter months, five species of turtles come to lay eggs and I saw them each night. There is a river cutting the beach in two; and when you cross the river, the beach becomes just impeccable. Magical. You can even enter the river that runs to the sea and swim upstream. The vistas you get around you are simply breathtaking. I have never seen such beauty in my life and I have traveled quite a bit. The bungalows are simple, but clean and comfortable. The mosquito net worked very well, but there were very few mosquitoes anyway there. I took the Malarone daily, but people around me did not. I asked around the long time residents and no-one ever had malaria, while living on the island. I would not take them pils again. There is a shared toilet and shower there - both very clean and functional. The water in the shower is cold-lukewarm- but you will pray it were colder, since it is hot outside. The owner Tomás is truly very helpful. He speaks ONLY Spanish and Portuguese, but with the help of google translate we were able to communicate very well. He is very helpful and will do anything to accommodate your wishes and needs. He helped with the trip to Isla das Rolas (the Equator trip) as well as with the trek to the foot of Cao Grande. Oh, by the way, you can see Cao Grande from the alcove on the premises or from the point where the river runs to the sea. Also from the river itself. There is wifi at the reception and around, and this wifi is good, reliable and strong. The entire complex is totally eco, powered by solar energy only. Breakfast is included in the price, but dinner can be ordered with Tomás. It is usually fish or octopus and, together with the breakfast can become a bit repetitive so I advise you to bring some provisions with you.

Beautiful location, very friendly and helpful staff and delicious food at the restaurant.

We were so lucky to stay a few days at this lovely place. The accommodation, the view from the room, the green area outside, the delicious meals (breakfast and dinner) were all fantastic. Great 'Thank you!' to Celia, our host, who was very welcoming from the first moment we met. Private transport to / from the airport or Sao Tome town was organised by te host but we also used the local public transport (short walk to the main road).

The property was a perfect fit for our family of 7! The rooms were spacious the lounging and dining area was superb. The direct view into the ocean made sunrises and sunsets truly special. The host was always available to assist and having someone cook breakfast was an absolute privilege - thanks Florinda! (Having a car rental is a must.)

We loved absolutely everything there. It is on a perfect spot, in a lovely village close to an amazing surf spot. Spacious and very well equipped. From the first day we felt home. Also the cleaning was done so well and the ladies and Joao had been so helpful. Best experience I haven’t even dreamed of. Thank you 🙏

Very beautiful place,staff very professional and very family atmosphere. I come back for sure

We liked the city/village where the hotel was in. We liked the pool and the fact that we had it for ourselves. the breakfast was great, staff was really nice.

It was nice. The beach is beautiful.

The room we were staying is excellent with very good mattresses, a almost silent AC and right across the new market. Absolutely perfect for exploring the city walking around. Almost every location of interest is in walking distance or easy to get to by mototaxi or taxi. The host Cassio will help with all the information you need and the two ladies who are responsible for the breakfast and cleaning are friendly and attentive.

Probably the most accommodating host I’ve ever met! Alex responds to messages almost instantly and is incredibly helpful—whether it’s arranging airport pickup or recommending a local tour guide, money exchange - she’s got us covered. Our flight was delayed by two days, and she kindly adjusted our check-in dates without any extra charges. The place itself is so cozy—it honestly feels like staying at a grandma’s house (in the best way!). The bed is super comfy with a proper blanket and adorable bedding. Everything was spotless. Rooms are pretty spacious. There’s also an amazing restaurant just a 10-minute walk away called O Pirata—it looks simple, but the food was absolutely incredible. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of fun, there’s an old-fashioned casino just a few minutes away.