Saly

Saly-Portudal, better known simply as Saly, is Senegal’s seaside tourism capital and the most famous resort in West Africa. Located just 80 km south of Dakar, the town stretches along the Petite Côte and attracts thousands of visitors each year in search of sun, turquoise waters, and Senegalese hospitality. Its origins date back to the 1980s when the government and the private sector launched a visionary project: transforming this former Serer fishing village into an international destination, built from the ground up around a protected coastline and the historic “Portudal” harbor. Today, Saly offers more than 10,000 beds spread across club hotels, private residences, and luxury villas, while retaining its local charm with fishermen, colorful markets, and a relaxed, sun-soaked lifestyle.

The development of Saly has not only transformed the local economy—boosting crafts, water sports, restaurants, and real estate—but has also shaped the modern identity of a village that remains attached to its roots. Between lively resorts, peaceful alleys, shaded squares, and beaches lined with casuarina trees, Saly combines modernity and authenticity. It is home to a large community of European expatriates (“Sénégaulois,” as they are known here), Senegalese families who come from Dakar on weekends, professional athletes, artists, and seasonal tourists attracted by the mild climate (an average of 82°F during the dry season), the diversity of activities, the safety, and the festive atmosphere that makes the Petite Côte so vibrant.

Saly is also the ideal starting point for exploring nearby wonders: the Somone lagoon, safaris in Bandia, excursions to Joal-Fadiouth or Popenguine, not to mention its many golf courses, spas, fitness centers, and water sports clubs. Between relaxation, adventure, encounters, and festivities, Saly embodies the best that Senegal’s seaside has to offer.

The coastline of Saly stretches over 6 km, featuring fine sandy beaches protected by breakwaters, rows of coconut and casuarina trees, beach huts and bars, and a variety of shops. This policy of coastal restoration and maintenance (against erosion) has allowed Saly to remain a prime and pleasant destination year-round. The beaches are monitored, family-friendly, lively during the day, and festive in the evening. Dance classes, mini beach volleyball tournaments, night markets, and live concerts on the sand are regularly organized. It’s the perfect spot to admire the sunset over the Atlantic, cocktail in hand or enjoying a plate of grilled thiof, the iconic fish of the Senegalese coast.

In Saly, the artisan market is one of the richest in the country: batiks in a thousand colors, ebony figurines, carved masks, Tuareg jewelry, woven baskets, and wooden instruments. Many workshops offer demonstrations and introduce visitors to making an item—perfect for bringing home a personalized souvenir.
The fishing port is an open-air theater: every morning, the painted pirogues return, welcomed by a dance of vendors, restaurateurs, and children, amidst the aroma of grilled fish and patchouli.