In short
- Buracona, also known as the Blue Eye, is a cave where sunlight creates a bright blue “eye” between 11:00 and 13:00
- Sea water enters the cave through a natural underwater tunnel
- Entrance costs a few euros; arriving early helps avoid tour groups
- Buracona is located about 6 km north of Palmeira and is accessible by car
Buracona is located on the northwest coast of Sal. It is better known as the Blue Eye. The Blue Eye is a large opening in a cave where, if the sunlight shines at the right point, you can see a beautiful “blue eye”. Seawater enters the cave through a natural tunnel. The Blue Eye is the blue water that lights up with the sun. Divers can swim into the sea through the underground tunnel. The best time to admire the Blue Eye is between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., by preference in summer. The sun is then at the best place to view the Blue Eye.
Buracona - the Blue Eye
Close to the Blue Eye you can cool off in the sea in a naturally formed swimming pool. This is also a nice place to have a picnic (don’t leave your belongings unattended). Access to the site costs a few euros. If you want to avoid large tour groups, it is advisable to be there in time. There is also a small restaurant where you can have a lunch.
How do I get to Buracona?
Buracona is located approximately 6 kilometers north of the town of Palmeira. By car, follow the signs to Buracona. You drive along the Jardim das Ilhas (garden of the islands) and just before the mountain Monte Leste (263 meters) you can park at Buracona.