The small capital of Sal Rei is built around a natural bay, and its waterfront is the social hub of the island. Fishing boats anchor in the shallows, the town's main square opens onto the promenade, and the handful of restaurants and bars that Sal Rei has are concentrated within easy walking distance.
The town is compact enough to be covered in an hour on foot. The colonial-era church, the old fort (Torre de Duque de Bragança, partially ruined, with views over the bay), and the lively morning fish market are the main points of interest. In the early evening, when the fishing boats come in, the waterfront has a genuinely local feel that survives the island's growing tourist traffic.