With nearly 19,000 miles of shoreline, Africa boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Here are 6 of our favorites that you should add to your bucket list.
1. Nungwi Beach ~ Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Located on the northernmost tip of Zanzibar Island, Nungwi is Zanzibar’s most popular beach, known for its picturesque views and rich culture. Because it experiences minimal tidal variations, unlike most beaches on the island, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and water sports at any time of the day. Visitors can also visit the nearby Nungwi village, to watch local artisans craft traditional dhow boats, shop with local vendors, or experience traditional Zanzibari food and culture. The best time to visit is during Zanzibar’s dry season, from June to October and December to February.
2. Anse Source d’Argent – La Digue Island, Seychelles
Anse Source d’Argent is considered by many to be the prettiest beach in the Seychelles. Its unique coastline, featuring golden sands and clear emerald waters lined with large granite boulders, makes it one of the world’s most photographed beaches. Despite its popularity, it remains calm, serene, and the perfect place to relax. Access to the beach is via L’Union Estate, where a nominal entry fee helps to maintain and preserve the area. The best time to visit is during the dry season, between May and September. It’s also recommended to visit in early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours.
Anse Source d’Argent Beach ~ Photo credit: Fabio Calamosca, Flickr
3. Mont Choisy Beach ~ Mauritius
Located in the Indian Ocean, Mont Choisy is the longest beach in northern Mauritius and a paradise for beach lovers. Known for its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and lush casuarina trees, this stunning beach is a favorite for water sports lovers, swimmers, and sunbathers alike. The best time to visit is from May to December when the weather is sunny and dry. Chinese New Year and the Diwali festival, which take place in February and October respectively, are also popular times to visit.
Mont Choisy Beach ~ Photo credit: yannick974, Flickr
4. Bazaruto Archipelago ~ Mozambique
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a chain of 5 islands – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangué – off the coast of southern Mozambique. Known for its pristine, unspoiled beaches and spectacular diving and snorkeling, the Archipelago is one of the most beautiful destinations in Africa. The Archipelago is a national park and protected conservation area for the surrounding coral reefs and abundant marine wildlife. The islands are reached by boat, plane or private helicopter from the mainland town of Vilankulos. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to November.
Sandbar at Bazaruto Archipelago ~ Photo credit: David Stanley, Flickr5. Banana Beach ~ Principe, Sao Tome and Principe
Located on the twin island of Principe in the island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, this secluded beach offers a little piece of paradise to adventurous travelers. Known for its serene atmosphere, golden sands, and warm, crystal blue waters surrounded by idyllic palm trees, Banana Beach is the perfect escape for nature lovers seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle. Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and bird watching are popular activities on the beach. The best time to visit is between June to early October and December to early March.
6. Santa Maria Beach ~ Sal Island, Cape Verde
Santa Maria is the most touristy, but one of the most beautiful beaches on Sal Island. With 4.5 miles of golden sand, warm, azure waters, and year-round mild temperatures, Santa Maria beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The focal point is the Santa Maria pier, where locals catch and sell fresh fish, as well as rent water sports equipment like snorkels, surf boards, jet skis, kite surfing, and dive gear. Multiple all-inclusive resorts dot the coastline, offering guests a beachfront location with full service and luxury amenities. The best time to visit is the dry season between February and June.
Have you visited any of these bucket list African beaches? Which was your favorite?
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