in Sal, Cape Verde
Riu Funana
Updated 1 July 2026
- Baby
- Toddler
- Kid
- Teen
A dependable, good-value Riu right on Santa Maria beach, Funana is the crowd-pleaser of the pair it forms with the neighbouring Riu Cabo Verde. Together they share pools, restaurants and the RiuLand kids club, so families get plenty of choice without a premium price. The all-inclusive is generous and the beach in front is broad and golden, with watersports on hand for older kids and calmer pools for the little ones.
Our verdict
The value all-inclusive on Sal, with two connected resorts' facilities and a good kids club. Easy, affordable and right on the sand.
The rooms
Comfortable, well-kept rooms and family rooms in a classic Riu block on the beach, most with a balcony. Family rooms sleep four, and stays share facilities with the adjoining Riu Cabo Verde next door.
At a glance
- Board
- All-inclusive, good value
- Kids club
- RiuLand, included
- Pools
- Shared with Cabo Verde
- Beach
- Broad Santa Maria sand
How the KidProof Score works
Every hotel is rated on eight things families actually care about, then weighted by how much each one drives your choice. Room setup counts the most. The little touches break the ties.
Sleeps how many? Connecting rooms, family suites, a real extra bed?
Clean travel cot, high chair, bottle warmer, changing table, kit to borrow.
Shallow pool or paddling area, playground, kids club (free or paid).
Quick breakfast, kids menus, allergy options, snacks on hand.
Secured windows, protected corners, watched pool, well kept grounds.
Laundry, in-room fridge, stroller access, parking, reliable Wi-Fi.
Close to family attractions, easy transport, park tickets or access.
Welcome gift for the child, staff who talk to kids, themed rooms.
Why families love it
- Good-value all-inclusive right on the beach
- RiuLand kids club, included
- Shares pools and dining with Riu Cabo Verde
- Broad golden beach with watersports
🗓️A day here with kids
- 8:30
Buffet breakfast
Familiar spread, easy for early risers.
- 10:00
Pool morning
Pick the calmest of the shared pools.
- 15:00
Kids club
Games while parents take a lounger and a cold drink.
- 17:30
Beach stroll
Golden light and calmer wind towards the pier.
Family things to do nearby
Beach walk to the pier
The long flat beach is a lovely walk towards the colourful Santa Maria pier and fishing boats.
RiuLand kids club
Crafts, games and a mini disco run daily across the two resorts.
Try a snorkel from the beach
On calmer mornings the shallows are good for a first snorkel with a parent alongside.
Is it right for your kids?
Baby
0 to 1 yr
Cots on request and calm pool corners, though facilities are shared and can be busy in peak weeks.
Toddler
1 to 3 yrs
Shallow pool steps suit toddlers, keep them poolside when the sea and wind are up.
Kid
4 to 11 yrs
RiuLand and two resorts of pools keep this age busy on a budget.
Teen
12 yrs and up
Watersports and the walk into town suit teens well.
Plan your stay
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Live prices & availability
Stays near Praia de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde
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Parents also ask
Is it really shared with Riu Cabo Verde?
Yes, the two resorts sit side by side and guests can use each other's pools, restaurants and kids club, which doubles the choice.
Is it good value for families?
It is one of the better-value all-inclusive options on Sal, trading a little polish for a keen price and plenty of facilities.
Can we walk into Santa Maria town?
It is a long beach walk or a short taxi, so most families take a taxi in the evening for dinner in town.
Similar family stays
in Sal
Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort
The newest big-name resort on the island, with bright contemporary rooms and family rooms, most with a balcony and many facing the sea. Family rooms and suites give you room to spread out, and connecting rooms are worth requesting for four or more.
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Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa
A vast all-inclusive resort with modern rooms, family rooms and suites set in landscaped gardens. Family rooms sleep four comfortably, and stays here include access to the shared facilities across the neighbouring Melia resorts.
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Riu Palace Santa Maria
The most upscale of the Riu resorts on the island, with smart modern rooms and family rooms, most with a balcony or terrace. Family rooms sleep four, and the all-inclusive is genuinely all-day, drinks and snacks included.
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