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The beaches in Africa are one of the best coastal destinations in the world. Africa is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, offering crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and diverse marine life. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or romance, the continent boasts a mix of popular beaches in Africa and hidden gems. From the exotic shores of Zanzibar to the dramatic landscapes of South Africa, there’s a perfect beach for every traveller. If you’re looking for the best beach in Africa, explore these stunning coastal destinations that define paradise.
Top 10 Beaches To Visit In Africa
Explore the most famous beaches in Africa and discover the beauty of the continent’s coastline.
1. Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles
Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons
Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most famous beaches in Africa, known for its unique granite boulders, crystal-clear waters, and powdery white sand. Located on La Digue Island, this beach is perfect for swimming and photography. The shallow waters make it ideal for snorkelling, while the surrounding lush greenery creates a serene atmosphere. It is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, offering breathtaking views at sunset.
Location: Seychelles
Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
2. Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful beaches in Africa, offering clear turquoise waters, soft white sands, and a relaxed atmosphere. The beach is great for swimming, as the tides remain low throughout the day. Snorkelling and diving here are fantastic, with coral reefs teeming with marine life. At sunset, traditional dhow boats sail across the horizon, adding to the beach’s magical charm.
Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Nearest Airport: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
3. Camps Bay Beach, South Africa
Photo: HelenOnline / Wikimedia Commons
Camps Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Africa, offering soft golden sand and spectacular views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Trendy cafés, restaurants, and bars line the lively promenade, making it a perfect beach destination for couples and families. The waves here attract surfers, while the long stretches of sand are ideal for sunbathing. It’s also a great spot to watch the sun dip into the Atlantic Ocean.
Location: South Africa
Nearest Airport: Cape Town International Airport (25.9 km)
4. Watamu Beach, Kenya
Photo: Jenny Kellett / Wikimedia Commons
Watamu Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in Africa, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The Watamu Marine National Park, located nearby, is perfect for snorkelling and diving, where you can spot sea turtles, dolphins, and colourful coral reefs. The soft, white sand and warm Indian Ocean waters make it an excellent destination for relaxation. The beach’s peaceful atmosphere attracts travellers looking for a quiet escape.
Location: Kenya
Nearest Airport: Malindi Airport (MYD) (20 km)
5. Ifaty Beach, Madagascar
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Ifaty Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Africa, known for its golden sands and tranquil waters. This lesser-known beach is famous for whale watching between June and September when humpback whales migrate along the coast. Traditional fishing villages nearby offer an authentic cultural experience. The warm waters are perfect for swimming while diving and snorkelling let you explore the diverse marine ecosystem.
Location: Madagascar
Nearest Airport: Toliara Airport (36.8)
6. Skeleton Coast Beach, Namibia
Photo: MarkDhawn / Wikimedia Commons
Skeleton Coast Beach is one of the most unique and secluded beaches in Africa, offering a rugged landscape filled with shipwrecks, rolling sand dunes, and dramatic Atlantic waves. It’s a haven for adventurous travellers and wildlife enthusiasts, with seals, jackals, and seabirds commonly seen along the shore. While swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, the eerie yet stunning scenery makes it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
Location: Namibia
Nearest Airport: Walvis Bay International Airport
7. Tofo Beach, Mozambique
Photo: Rubend nazario / Wikimedia Commons
Tofo Beach is one of the best beaches in Africa for adventure seekers, with excellent surfing conditions and a thriving underwater world. It is one of the few places where you can dive with whale sharks and manta rays. The beach itself has golden sands and a laid-back atmosphere, with beach bars offering fresh seafood and chilled drinks. The vibrant nightlife and friendly locals make it a fantastic beach destination.
Location: Mozambique
Nearest Airport: Inhambane Airport (20 km)
8. Ponta do Ouro Beach, Mozambique
Photo: Claus Wonnemann / Wikimedia Commons
Ponta do Ouro Beach is famous for its incredible dolphin encounters, making it one of the most unique Africa beaches for marine life lovers. Visitors can swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat, an experience that attracts travellers from around the world. The beach also offers great conditions for surfing and snorkelling, with a lively town nearby that features beach bars, markets, and cultural experiences.
Location: Mozambique
Nearest Airport: Maputo International Airport
9. Sharm El Luli Beach, Egypt
Photo: Yoori2k17 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sharm El Luli Beach, also known as the “Maldives of Egypt,” is one of the most famous beaches in Africa for its untouched beauty. The clear turquoise waters and soft white sand make it an ideal location for swimming and snorkelling. Located near Marsa Alam, this secluded beach offers vibrant coral reefs just offshore, where visitors can spot colourful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
Location: Egypt
Nearest Airport: Marsa Alam International Airport (128 km)
10. Grand Popo Beach, Benin
Photo: Sampo Kiviniemi / Wikimedia Commons
Grand Popo Beach is one of the most underrated and beautiful beaches in Africa, offering a blend of cultural heritage and stunning coastal scenery. This long, sandy stretch is perfect for a peaceful retreat, with fewer crowds compared to other famous beaches in Africa. Visitors can explore nearby fishing villages, witness traditional voodoo ceremonies, or simply enjoy the Atlantic Ocean’s calming waves.
Location: Benin
Nearest Airport: Cotonou Airport (95.5 km)
The beaches in Africa are some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, offering everything from vibrant city shores to secluded tropical retreats. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or marine life encounters, these top 10 beaches in Africa promise unforgettable experiences to the tourists who visit them. Plan your perfect getaway and immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa’s coastlines. Book your trip with TripXL for the best beach vacations and exclusive travel deals.
Cover Photo: Mike Peel / Wikimedia Commons
