This uninhabited island of 35 square metres is located between São Vicente and São Nicolau. During the 19th century it had mostly been used for farming. An extremely arid climate combined with the lack of any natural water resource and only sparse vegetation has resulted in Santa Luzia never being colonised properly.

Nowadays the island serves as a breeding ground for many endemic bird species, and for this reason it is a protected reserve. At the moment only local fishermen are allowed to enter the surrounding water (sailing boats and yachts need special permission) but there is a long-term vision to establish tourism on the island in a sustainable and eco-friendly way.