Africa has many, many amazing beaches along its 18,950-mile coastline (not counting the African islands). Africa beach spots offer everything from tranquil, hidden coves and palm-lined paradises, to vibrant culture-filled beach towns, watersports and wildlife havens.
So whether you're looking for a remote Africa beach paradise or lively shores, you'll have plenty of enticing options.
But with thousands of miles of coastline (plus numerous islands!) to choose from, the question is, where to go?!
To help you, we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of our best Africa beach locations. Each of these beautiful African beaches has its own unique character and is one of our absolute favourites, so let’s get stuck in!
Zanzibar is known the world over for being home to some of the best beaches in Africa.
With postcard-perfect white sands and turquoise waters, this African island truly is a slice of paradise.
On the northern tip, Nungwi Beach is one of the top Africa beach getaways, with clear waters and vibrant coral reefs perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
Otherwise, for kitesurfing enthusiasts, Paje Beach on the southeast coast is the ultimate spot to head for.
Its long stretches of white sand and shallow waters make it perfect for beginners looking to try their hand at this water sport, otherwise, Paje’s laid-back vibe also draws travellers just looking for some serious chill!
But there’s more to Zanzibar than picture-perfect Africa beaches.
Known as the "Spice Island," Zanzibar Island is rich in history and Swahili culture.
A visit to Stone Town is a must between beach-hopping.
Here you’ll discover a unique mix of African, Arab, and European influences, created over the many centuries this island has been an important stop on the East-to-West trade routes.
Indeed Stone Town’s unique character only adds to Zanizibar’s exotic and mystical appeal.
Want to visit Zanzibar on your Africa beach trip? To learn more about travel to Zanzibar, read our blog post, The Best of Zanzibar: 12 Frequently Asked Questions About Zanzibar Travel.
Here are just two of the many tours we have that explore the Spice Island - 4 Day Zanzibar Beach Resort Package and 5 Day Zanzibar Holiday - Adventure Package
It’s no surprise that in an article about the best Africa beach destinations, South Africa fills not 1, not 2, but 3 spots on this list!
Honestly, this country has beaches for days!
The first three South African destinations on our top Africa beach list, is Durban.
Located on South Africa’s eastern coast, here vibrant city life meets endless stretches of sand and, with 320 days of sunshine a year, Durban’s subtropical climate makes it perfect for year-round beach fun. You can read more about Durban's amazing offerings in 10 Reasons to Visit South Africa in Winter.
The iconic Golden Mile is a bustling and popular stretch of coast with a vibrant city energy.
Surfers flock to Addington Beach for its beginner-friendly waves, while further south, the Sapphire Coast has a quieter, tropical setting, ideal for swimming and beach walks.
Beyond its African beaches, Durban also blends culture and adventure, and with its rich Zulu heritage and easy access to the lush Drakensberg Mountains, it’s a must-visit spot in South Africa.
This 12-Day Durban to Cape Town South Africa & Lesotho Safari allows you to take in Durban’s beaches, before travelling overland to explore many of South Africa’s most popular spots ending in Cape Town, which also boasts some of the best beaches in South Africa.
Cape Town’s beaches are as diverse as the city itself, so you’ll be spoilt for choice here!
Camps Bay is one of the most popular, with its white sands set against the majestic Twelve Apostles, making it ideal for sunbathing and cocktail sipping.
Clifton Beach, with its four sheltered coves, is perfect for relaxing in style, offering calm waters and a chic vibe.
For surfers, Muizenberg Beach is a favourite, with its colourful beach huts and welcoming waves, while Llandudno Beach offers a quieter, more secluded escape, loved for its dramatic boulders and clear waters.
Whether you want to surf, sunbathe, sip cocktails or simply take in the breathtaking views of Cape Town, these Africa beach gems have something to keep everyone happy!
This Cape Town to Garden Route Tour starts and ends in the Mother City, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Cape Town’s many top beaches and attractions.
Did you know that you can do a Big 5 safari from the Mother City? Find out more in The Best Big 5 Safaris Near Cape Town.
Port Elizabeth, affectionately known as ‘The Friendly City’, is located on Algoa Bay, on South Africa’s south coast.
Located at the eastern end of the famous Garden Route, a beach holiday to Port Elizabeth is ideal if you want to combine some of this country’s stunning sandy spots with beautiful scenery, national parks and hiking trails.
The city itself has a nice blend of relaxed coastal charm and vibrant city life, with lots to offer all the family.
Hobie Beach is popular with kids, thanks to its shallow waters, lifeguards, and nearby restaurants; while King's Beach, close to the city centre, is great for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
If you want a more peaceful experience, Sardinia Bay is ideal for a quiet escape, with pristine, golden sands and beautiful dunes that are hard to refuse!
With year-round pleasant temperatures, especially from November to March, Port Elizabeth stands out as one of the best places for South Africa beach adventures.
The Eastern Cape is also well-known as a malaria-free safari destination. The Best Malaria-Free Game Reserves for Family Safaris in the Eastern Cape, gives more detail about exploring this stunning South African province.
This 7-Day Private Garden Route Tour & Addo Safari ends in Port Elizabeth, giving you the chance to soak up the beach life after some fab wildlife exploring.
Mozambique has so many miles of beautiful African beaches it's almost impossible to choose which to feature!
In fact, this southern African country boasts a whopping 1,540 miles of coastline to be exact - about the same length as the west coast of the USA!
Despite this, many people do not know a lot about Mozambique. That is why we put together 10 of the Most Popular Mozambique Travel FAQs to help you discover this amazing Africa beach destination.
Nevertheless, choose we must, so kicking things off is Vilankulo - a charming coastal town that serves as the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago, with some beautiful beaches in its own right!
Here the vibe is laid-back, rustic, and authentic.
In fact, it's one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to African beaches!
Protected by its sheltered location, Vilankulo’s calm waters are ideal for snorkelling, diving, and kitesurfing; while traditional dhow boats line the shores, adding to its relaxed, authentic vibe.
The town's laid-back atmosphere, combined with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, make it a must-visit destination in Mozambique if you’re looking for an affordable piece of paradise.
Also located in Mozambique, the beachside town of Tofo is a bohemian paradise known for its relaxed, barefoot atmosphere and abundant underwater life.
A dream destination for divers and snorkellers, at the right time of year, Tofo offers visitors the chance to swim alongside manta rays, dolphins, and even whale sharks!
Despite being the most popular hangout for backpackers in Mozambique, Tofo is still a sleepy, one-street town.
Visit outside of school holidays and this is one of the best places for an Africa beach holiday if you’re seeking huge expanses of sand with some seriously fab marine potential!
Just off the coast of Vilankulos in Mozambique, the Bazaruto Archipelago is a group of six islands nestled within the Indian Ocean.
Known for its natural beauty, this undiscovered and exclusive holiday destination is a protected marine park teeming with diverse wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, and even the elusive dugong.
The beaches here are some of the best Africa beach sites, made of powdery white sands and azure tropical waters that are bound to steal the hearts of any beach lover!
Visitors come for the coral reefs and luxury lodges, making it a perfect getaway if you’re looking for tranquillity, luxury, and unforgettable marine adventures in Africa. Although staying on one of the Bazaruto Islands is pricey you can explore the archipelago on day trips from Vilankulos which makes Bazaruto one of our best African islands for affordable vacations.
This 8-day Mozambique beaches tour takes in some of the very best Africa beaches that Mozambique has to offer, including Tofo and the Bazaruto Archipelago.
For more about the best beaches in Mozambique, see the best Mozambique beaches to visit.
If a luxurious private island getaway is what you’re looking for from your Africa beach time, then you should definitely check out Tsarabanjina.
Just off the coast of Madagascar, this remote gem is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and untouched beauty with next to no crowds!
On these African beaches, you’ll find soft, white sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs and, with only 25 bungalows spread across the whole island, you probably won’t have to share this paradise with anyone either!
Tsarabanjina’s remote location, secluded nature, stunning views, and empty expanses make its beaches some of the best in Africa - perfect if you’re looking for peace, quiet and luxurious relaxation.
Visit from April to December, during the dry season, for the best experience.
Discover The Magic of Northern Madagascar in our blog post or take a look at this 8-Day Safari to Nosy Be in northern Madagascar.
The Lamu archipelago is seldom talked about, but this little-known group of islands, just off the coast of Kenya, was an important stop-over for Indian Ocean sailors for hundreds of years.
The islands still reflect this ocean-faring history through their mediaeval stone towns, narrow winding streets, and beguiling architecture.
Lamu is the most popular and most developed of the islands.
Home to one of the oldest Swahili towns in the world, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, and remains steeped in Swahili culture, with ancient, twisting streets and historical architecture that transports you back in time.
Curious about other UNESCO sites in Africa? Read more in African Safaris to Must-Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In fact, a visit to Lamu really is like turning back the clock, not least because there are no cars on this island... Donkeys are the main mode of transport instead!
But what is great about Lamu, beyond its historical importance and stunning natural beauty, is its quiet, out-of-the-way feel; miles from the mainstream traveller trail, visiting here feels like escaping to another time entirely!
When it comes to island beaches, Shela Beach is the most famous, with its expansive white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Manda Bay, on nearby Manda Island, offers a more secluded African beach experience, while Takwa Beach, also on Manda Island, is a hidden gem for quiet relaxation.
Visiting from November to March will give you the best weather if the hidden treasure of Lamu is calling your name!
Though not on the ocean, Lake Malawi’s freshwater beaches and crystal-clear waters rival any of the other best beaches in Africa in our opinion!
The calm, warm waters here are perfect for snorkelling or kayaking, while the abundant marine life and colourful cichlid fish also make it a diver’s dream.
And better still, there are a lot of beaches to choose from around this gigantic lake, each with its own vibe.
Senga Bay is renowned for its scenic views and soft sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Nearby, Kande Beach offers a lively atmosphere with opportunities for beach games, water sports, and vibrant backpacker spots.
Nkhata Bay is perfect for snorkelling and diving among colourful fish, while Chintheche Beach features serene surroundings and is great for enjoying stunning lake sunsets.
Otherwise, take a boat out to stay on Nankoma Island. Part of Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its marine biodiversity and natural beauty, this island is known for its eco-conscious accommodation lodges and secluded, peaceful location.
So wherever you go on Lake Malawi, you’re guaranteed to find an idyllic Africa beach escape! Add to this the stunning possibility of combining Lake Malawi & Zambia Safari in South Luangwa Valley and Malawi has a lot to offer the intrepid eplorer.
Need more reasons to visit Malawi? Here are 5 More Reasons to Visit Malawi on Safari.
From Cape Town’s lively beach life to the remote tranquillity of Mozambique’s archipelago, you’re bound to find your perfect coastal holiday among these best Africa beach destinations. If you're still searching, see 20 of the Best Beaches in Africa for more ideas.
So why wait?
With our carefully crafted African tours, you can easily plan your perfect trip without stress.
Speak to one of our Africa Travel Experts for help planning your dream Africa beach holiday today.
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