Africa is a big continent with a vast ecosystem. It is approximately 30,500km in length, comprising coastal countries and island states. Many tourists focus on dense jungle and game viewing when vacationing on the continent. However, Africa has more than ecology. It has 38 countries that claim a coastline, allowing travelers to explore different scenery.
The stunning cities and incredible sights that many beaches offer to tourists make their adventure memorable. Exploring the best beaches in Africa gives you another view of how beautiful the continent is.
List of Best Beaches in Africa
Finding the best beaches in Africa to pair with your safari experience is easy. Here is a list of the top ten African beach destinations:
1. Mnemba Island
Mnemba is the largest island in Zanzibar, located on Unguja’s northeast coast. It has a circumference of 1.5km. Mnemba is characterized by exclusive sand beaches with calm waters that encourage different swimming adventures. All these make it perfect for intimate vacations. Also, it can be combined with a safari in Tanzania. If you are going turtle hatching, any time of the year works. However, the best time to go is from July to March.
2. IIha Caldeira
Ilha Caldeira is a private island off the coast of Mozambique. It has a villa where tourists can stay to view the surrounding white sand beaches. The water area is protected and perfect for various swimming adventures. Travelers can enjoy other activities such as kayaking and whale watching. Additionally, they can visit interesting places, such as the location of the 1947 shipwreck.
The best time to go to Ilha Caldeira is from May to November. The private island is ideal for intimate vacations, such as honeymoons. You can also combine it with a safari in South Africa.
3. Bom Bom Island, São Tomé and Príncipe
All these islands belong to the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe. Bom Bom Island is located at the northern end of Príncipe. The beaches have palm trees along their borders. Major activities in Bom Bom include deep-sea fishing and snorkelling.
São Tomé and Príncipe have two islands, located off the west coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea. These islands house most of the best beaches in Africa. An example is Praia dos Tamarindos, an excellent swimming spot located near the capital. The best months for visitation are June, July, August, and September. These islands are great for nature lovers who want to swim and experience a safari in one location.
4. iSimangaliso Wetland Park
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is situated in South Africa and spans 136 miles. It is home to the Cape Vidal and Sodwana Bay beaches. These South African beaches are known for their scuba diving scene and coral reefs. There are other lakes nearby, such as St. Lucia, but they are primarily used for day trips by tourists visiting the safari in the afternoon. Interestingly, the wetland park also features other beaches, such as Black Rock Beach, Kosi Bay, and Mabibi.
The best time to visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park is from November to March. This is the time of year when you can see turtles in the wild returning to lay their eggs. Also, other creatures go up the slope this time to nest, giving you a more beautiful view compared to other months of the year.
5. Cabo Ledo
Cabo Ledo is located in the province of Uganda in Quissama National Park, Angola. It is known for its white-sand beaches and cliffs that tower as high as the Atlantic. Cabo Ledo has over 1,000 miles of diverse coastal habitats. Although this location is not commonly visited due to the previous civil war there. However, new people are now discovering the beauty in the peaceful political system. The best months to visit are between May and October, when the view is at its best and the likelihood of impressive, high waves is highest.
6. Loango National Park
Loango National Park is located on the western coast of Gabon. If you want to combine a beach experience with a safari, this park is one of the best options. One of the most fascinating experiences in the park is watching the surfing hippos come ashore, splashing water and enjoying the waves.
Forest buffalo and elephants also enjoy the shores. The park features teeming forests, lush grasslands, and an excellent birdlife.
The best time to visit the park is between June and September. During these months, the rainfall is minimal, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Although the sunshine hours are lower during these months, they do not affect visibility.
7. Anse Lazio Beach
Anse Lazio is located in Seychelles. It is considered by many as the most beautiful beach in Africa and the world. It boasts a perfect blend of pristine golden sand and crystal-clear, warm water, complemented by excellent, powder-like sand formations.
This beach is bordered by forests, with beautifully carved boulders at each end. Between the shores, a line of palm trees sways to the gentle, cool tropical breeze, their fronds providing shade for tourists.
Its popularity makes it busier than other African beaches. Hence, arriving later in the day can help beat the crowd and the early-morning rush.
8. Le Morne Beach
The best months to visit Le Morne Beach include May, September, October, and November. These months offer the beach its best weather for sunbathing and swimming, free of rain.
Le Morne Beach is situated at the foot of the Le Morne Brabant Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One beautiful thing about the Beach is how it combines adventure and relaxation in one destination. It has a clear blue color with coconut trees that provide natural shade and a serene environment.
9. Mafia Island
Mafia Island is located off the coast of Tanzania. It is home to one of the best diving sites. It is ideal for tourists seeking to escape the crowds that typically frequent Tanzania’s beaches. The Mafia Island Marine Park is on the largest island of the Mafia Archipelago. The beach features modern diving equipment, ensuring your experience is both safe and enjoyable.
The best time to visit this beach is from June to October. During this time, the whale sharks migrate to the island, making them easy to view. A tourist seeking exclusivity who wants to swim with whale sharks and go on a safari will find Mafia Island a good option.
10. Camps Bay Beach
Camp Bay Beach is situated in Cape Town, South Africa. It has a lively, ever-buzzing environment. It is the best-known beach in South Africa, featuring palm trees at its end. Camp Bay beach boasts a selection of trendy restaurants, including numerous cafes and bars.
Many tourists visit this beach due to its lively atmosphere, and it is also a popular spot for celebrities. It has perfect spots for any adventures you want to go on. The best time to visit is between December and March. It is best for active travelers and celebrities who want to experience surfing, beach bars, and picnics.
11. Lamu Island
The Lamu Archipelago is located along Kenya’s north coast. It has Indian Ocean islands, including Manda, Pate, Kiwayu, and Manda Toto. These islands’ beaches in Africa have quiet scenery with few people around. While on vacation, you can enjoy activities such as skiing, kayaking, and swimming with dolphins.
Lamu Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its scenic spots and perfect for long walks. The island’s edges are home to coral reefs, offering a range of great day and nighttime activities.
Lamu Island offers a range of adventures and can be combined with a safari in Kenya. The best time to visit is between November and March.
12. Anakao
Anakao beach is situated on the southwest coast of Madagascar. It is about 40 km from Toliara. It is popular as a small fishing village with beautiful beaches. Anakao is a place to escape from the various demands of daily life.
Anakao, in Madagascar, has the clearest water. The beach features glassy, blue water and soft, warm, white sand. The edges are framed with baobab trees and green tropical shrubs. The beach is suitable for water adventures such as diving and snorkelling. The best and peak month to travel is July. It also has top destinations nearby for those who want to have a safari experience.
What African Beaches Have The Clearest Water?
Many West African beaches have remarkably clean water. Although water clarity varies throughout the year, crystal-clear waters and neat coastlines are quite common.
Many beaches display their clearest water during the dry season, when the sea is calm, sediments are settled, and the sky is bright. Here is a list of African beaches with clear water:
- Busua Beach, Ghana
- Cap Skirring, Senegal
- Praia des Chaves, Cape Verde
- Kotu Beach, The Gambia
- Anakao in Madagascar
- Axim Beach, Ghana
- Laginha Beach, Cape Verde
There are various clear-water beaches along Africa’s coastline. Tourists who visit often experience the serene nature and tranquil conditions of the beaches, free from crowds.
Ready For Your African Beach Escape?
Many tourists are unaware of the unforgettable experiences that Africa’s beaches can offer. The beauty of these destinations lies not only in the coast, but also in the lakes with their pristine waters. Whether it is a honeymoon or a family vacation, a few days relaxing near one of the best beaches in Africa can give you a lifetime experience.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to start your journey, exploring our holiday packages for experiencing Zanzibar beaches is a significant next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which African Country Has White Sand Beaches?
Kenya has many white sand beaches in Watamu. The white sand beach in the town stretches for approximately 7 km (4 miles). Surrounding the beaches are the mangroves, forest, and a fishing village
2. Which African Country Is Best For Tourists?
North African countries, such as Morocco and Egypt, are commonly regarded as the best destinations for tourism. They boast ancient landmarks, excellent coastlines, and accessibility for tourists from diverse locations. East and Southern African countries, such as Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa, are popular destinations for tourists seeking a safari experience.
3. Can You Swim In African Beaches?
You can swim on the beaches in Africa. However, it is not advisable to swim during some periods due to strong water tides. Additionally, some beaches are contaminated with parasites, such as bilharzia, which can enter the human body and cause an infection. Sometimes, the water is not conducive to swimming because of crocodiles and hippos in the water bodies.
