The island is about 54 km long and the beaches are spread around its entire coastline, so a car or scooter makes a significant difference. Rental is straightforward from the airport or city centre. The public bus network connects the main areas but journeys can be slow, especially in summer when traffic backs up on the two bridges and main roads.
App-based taxis (99 and Uber) work across the island and are reliable. Bikes are popular around the Lagoa da Conceição area, where the flat terrain and cycle paths make them practical for getting between the lagoon, beach, and restaurants. For the surf beaches on the east coast and the colonial villages on the west, a car is the most flexible option.