Hakuna Matata: The Seven Best Beaches in Africa

Are you finally ticking an exhilarating safari through Africa’s vast savannas and dense jungles off the bucket list? What better way to follow it up than with a visit to some of the continent’s most breathtaking beaches.

From the powdery white sands of the Indian Ocean to the dramatic, rugged coastlines of the Atlantic, Africa offers an array of stunning coastal retreats. Here is our pick of the bunch.

The allure of Nungwi Beach, one of Tanzania's most celebrated destinations situated in the lively fishing village of the same name on Zanzibar Island, lies in its exceptional coral sand, which seems to have an ethereal, glowing quality. Defined by clear, inviting waters perfect for swimming, rugged rock formations and stunning sunsets framed by the silhouettes of traditional dhow boats, the popularity of the beach has led to a bustling commercial scene, with numerous restaurants, beach vendors, bars, resorts and water sports operators within easy access.

Activities like deep-sea fishing, sunset cruises, and excursions to the breathtaking Nakupenda Beach sandbank near Stone Town come highly recommended.

Where to Stay

Kilindi Zanzibar in the neighbouring village of Kendwa for five-star luxury away from the crowds.

Fascinated by shipwrecks? Then you've come to the right place. Skeleton Coast in Namibia is notorious for the numerous wrecks along its foggy shores, one of the most famous being German cargo ship Eduard Bohlen which met its fate in 1909 due to dense fog and choppy waters.

Despite its harsh environment, the Skeleton Coast supports unique wildlife adapted to the arid conditions, including desert-adapted elephants and seals. In fact, the dramatic landscape and eerie atmosphere make it a fascinating destination for those seeking an otherworldly experience.

Where to Stay

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp for the chance to witness mountain zebra, giraffe, gemsbok, springbok and kudu in a truly unique setting.

One of Africa's best beaches for snorkelling and wildlife, Watamu, which lies about 108km (67 north of Mombasa, is an underwater paradise home to parrotfish, angelfish, three species of turtles and many more marine species.

Watamu features three stunning bays—Watamu Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Bay—each boasting pristine white sands, crystal-clear aquamarine waters and lush coconut palm trees, while the area’s charm is further amplified by its proximity to rich wetlands and mangrove forests. Be sure to check out the Arabuko Sokoke Coastal Forest, one of Africa’s largest remaining coastal forests, which provides a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, reptiles, amphibians and the charming Sokoke scops owl.

Where to Stay

Hemingways for reef-protected sandy beaches directly within the Watamu Marine National Park.

Going on safari may be Kenya's biggest attraction, but its 536km Indian Ocean coastline has some of the best beaches in Africa. Sitting pretty around 30km south of Mombasa, Diani Beach is the creme de la creme, with something to suit all type of traveller. Not only does it come lined with rustic-meets-luxurious hotels at prices that won't break the bank, but there are countless restaurants and bars as well as plenty of dive sites less than an hour away by boat. Plan your trip between November and February for a chance to see whale sharks.

Where to Stay

The award-winning Sands at Nomad for a boutique hotel with a village feel. Guests stay in cottages dotted throughout the rambling flower-filled gardens, while there's also a pool, spa and one of the beach's best restaurants on-site.

The largest of a five-island tropical archipelago off Mozambique’s Indian Ocean coast, Ilha do Bazaruto is famous for its dramatic sand dunes, unspoiled beaches and luxury resorts. Make a beeline for the island’s windward side, where Shellfish Bay boasts one of East Africa’s most breathtaking beaches, with a crescent of white sand nestled against 100-metre-high dunes. Enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling and sailing on traditional dhow boats.

Elsewhere, as a key part of Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, the island is teeming with diverse wildlife including crocodiles and wading birds in freshwater lagoons, five species of sea turtles, East Africa’s largest population of dugongs and rare marine creatures like the guitarfish and rhino ray. In other words, it's a nature lover's dream.

Where to Stay

Anantara Bazaruto Resort for all-inclusive luxury surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Arguably one of the most picturesque spots on the planet, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is the iconic beach featured in the original Bounty advertisement. With its pristine white sands and impressive granite boulders, the scene is strikingly beautiful, and while it's certainly not an isolated location, an early morning visit allows you to arrive before the influx of day-trippers from Mahé and Praslin.

For a more secluded experience, head south through the shallow waters past the initial cluster of boulders, where the bay expands and offers a more tranquil escape.

Where to Stay

Six Senses Zil Pasyon for a private-island resort boasting gorgeous villas, a spectacular spa and even more spectacular views.

While it may be a little more on-the-beaten track then other beaches on our list, there's good reason why Camps Bay is a long-time traveller favourite. Otherwise known as Cape Town's Riviera, think a long stretch of soft, powder-white sand, and an excellent and vast choice of hotels and serviced beach villas, as well as a myriad of great restaurants that all contributed to it being voted as one of the 100 best beaches in the world for 2024, according to Lonely Planet. It's worth keeping in mind, however, that the current can sometimes be strong here, so swimmers should take caution or stick to the tidal pool.

Where to Stay

The Bay Hotel for an unrivalled location directly on the sands.