Dotting the coast of East Africa are; Sky blue waters, pearl white sandy beaches, beautiful tropical lodges, moss covered ruins of the magical archipelagos of Zanzibar and Lamu that welcome you with an everyday smell of spices and mesmerizing tropical beauty.Imagine enjoying a romantic evening cruising on an ancient Arab dhow as you watch the sun set on the beautiful blue coral Zanzibar waters.
When it comes to idyllic island beaches, fun-filled Mauritius and the exclusive private islands of the Seychelles immediately spring to mind. But African beaches are as varied as the enormous continent itself and range from the exotic islands of Mozambique’s Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos to the sandy white shores bordering freshwater Lake Malawi. And did you know that classic safari destinations like Kenya and Tanzania have mile after mile of unspoilt beaches as well as culture-crammed islands?
Family beach holidays and active beach holidays are also well-catered for in Africa (Bazaruto in Mozambique is particularly good for both), and you’ll find family-friendly accommodation, dedicated kids clubs, next-door golf courses, safe swimming and some of the best diving and fishing in the world.
Speak to one of our Safari Experts for more African beach holiday ideas – they can also easily combine a beach vacation with a safari for the ultimate African holiday.
Beaches in Africa are as varied as the enormous continent itself, each offering something unique to the traveller while remaining distinctly African.
East Africa: Kenya’s Beaches, Mafia & Zanzibar
Following an East African safari to the Masai Mara or Serengeti, beaches on Kenya’s mainland coast or the exotic spice islands of Zanzibarthat often beckon for a relaxing beach holiday.
Zanzibar is situated at the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. From the East to the North you will find extended powdery white beaches, fringed by coconut palms and sun-baked villages lapped by the turquoise sea perfect for snorkelling and diving. The heart of Zanzibar is Stone town with its labyrinthine alleyways and architecture. A night in Stone town Capital is a must for every one visiting Zanzibar!
Indian Ocean Islands: Mauritius & The Seychelles
When it comes to idyllic island beach destinations, fun-filled Mauritius and the islands of the Seychelles first come to mind. Moreover, these destinations can easily be combined with any kind of African vacation, including big game safaris in East Africa or Southern Africa. Malawi: Lake Malawi
For a thoroughly different take on an African beach holiday, head to the shores of Lake Malawi – you’ll get palm-fringed beaches, dazzling blue water and the chance to go diving and snorkelling in clear, fresh water. It’s hundreds of miles from the coast but Lake Malawi will enchant you.
Mozambique: the Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos
On one of our Mozambique holidays you will discover some of the best beaches in Africa. Wonderful long beaches can be found on the mainland but for a real African island experience, travel to the islands that lie off the coast. The islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago offer some of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkelling whereas the fascinating history found in the islands of the Quirimbas Archipelago – also home to sensational diving and snorkelling – adds a sense of romantic nostalgia to your island holiday. South Africa: Cape Town, the Garden Route & KwaZulu-Natal
Holidays in South Africa give you a wide choice of beach destinations. Choose between the glamorous city beaches of cosmopolitan Cape Town, the long family-friendly sandy beaches of the Garden Route or the golden sands and bathwater-warm waters of the unspoilt KwaZulu-Natal coast.
Make sure you’re well-prepared for your beach vacation by reading through our Africa beach holiday advice. Additional information and advice on specific destinations is available simply by clicking through to whichever country or regional destination you have in mind.
Best Family Beach Holiday: accessible, well-managed and clean, the beaches of Zanzibar MombasaSeychellesSouth Africa and the island of Mauritius both top the list for a family beach holiday. Many resorts have kids clubs (so you can take a break too!), super-safe swimming beaches and a long list of activities for adults and kids alike – golf, water sports and tennis are among the most popular.
Safety on Coral Beaches: wear old or cheap shoes when in the water to protect your feet against sea urchins and sharp coral.
Avoid Malaria: if you’re travelling toEast Africa beachesMozambique, orMalawiyou are strongly advised to take relevant precautions against malaria.
Dress Code: for most destinations simply pack plenty of beach and casual wear; however, if you’re travelling to Zanzibar or Lamu remember that these islands are home to a conservative, predominantly Muslim society. Travellers – especially women – are advised to dress and behave with respect to local customs and sensibilities