The very best beaches in Africa
Swimming in Africa. Discover Africa’s best swimming spots – from Zanzibar to Malawi, Kenya, Mozambique, and more. Swim in paradise! Think about it, there are endless places to swim on some of the very best beaches highlighting world class resorts on an extended and beautiful coastline. Africa’s southern seashore extends for miles from the tip of Somalia on the East Coast to Cape Town in the Deep South and then up to the untrodden west coast of Angola and beyond, north to the Ivory Coast.
In this blog, we focus on the best beaches in Africa and fancy coastal resorts from sensational Tanzania and Zanzibar Island to Namibia’s wild and rugged Skeleton coast in a huge u-shape of magic, bliss, remote wildness and scenic wonder for swimming in Africa.
Holidays in Africa offer all the thrills of pristine environmental beauty, outdoor activities, cultural enlightenment, and a wealth of fascinating history. We know there are hundreds of places to swim in clear waters in Africa, from coastline to coastline and inland in lakes and dams and rivers. Here are our best beaches in Africa and the top five countries and places for swimming in Africa.
Best beaches and places to swim in Kenya
Here we look at some spectacular spots along the Kenyan coast, Lake Victoria, and one on the Laikipia Plateau. Go and discover some of the best African beaches along the Swahili Coast and the very best places to swim in Kenya. We book safaris and holidays to Kenya as East Africa specialists. Get in touch with us for your dream safari to Kenya and beyond!
From the palm-fringed shores of Diani Beach to the historic charm of Lamu Island, Kenya’s coast is a hidden gem for sun-seekers, beach lovers, and cultural explorers. The white sands and crystal-clear waters of Watamu Marine National Park offer excellent snorkelling and scuba diving, while Lake Victoria’s quiet coves invite relaxing swims and boat rides. Venture inland to Laikipia’s freshwater pools and natural springs, perfect for a refreshing dip with views of Mount Kenya. For a truly unique experience, combine your beach stay with a Kenya safari and cultural tour.
Diani Beach
Diani Beach, Kenya is located just south of Mombasa and stretches for 15km of white and powdery sand. Just offshore lies a coral reef that creates a lagoon for safe swimming. Diani Beach is therefore protected and perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving, kitesurfing, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. It is one of the greatest water and adventure sports destinations along the East Africa coast, with a number of water sports centers dotted along the beach.
Diani Beach is adjacent to the Kenyan town of Ukunda. There are a number of luxury resorts and beachfront hotels to choose from, ideal for both families and honeymooners. The Diani Airstrip, located close to the beach, makes it an easy add-on to any Kenya safari holiday.
The coral reefs are exceptional and in a very good condition, ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling in Kenya. You can also see black-and-white colobus monkeys along the coast, and if you want to explore more, visit the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve for a unique wildlife and beach experience with breathtaking coastal views.
Diani is often referred to as the best beach in Africa, and for good reason — it combines tropical beauty, rich marine biodiversity, and thrilling water sports in one unforgettable destination. Perfect for Kenya beach holidays, honeymoon getaways, or a post-safari retreat, Diani Beach offers something for everyone.
Watamu Beach Kenya Coast
Watamu Beach Kenya is dotted with swaying coconut palms and stretches for miles in both directions. The sand is soft and white, the water warm and tranquil — making Watamu the perfect place to unwind after an action-packed Kenya safari. This peaceful coastal haven is known for its laid-back charm and spectacular marine scenery, attracting sun-seekers, swimmers, and snorkelers alike.
Watamu is a small but vibrant Kenyan coastal town with a population of around 35,000 (2020). Easily accessible from Malindi or Mombasa, Watamu offers a fascinating blend of African, Arab, and Italian influences. The Italian expat community has brought incredible cuisine — from wood-fired pizzas to gelato that rivals Italy’s best.
Stroll down to the beach and settle into a sun lounger for the day at one of the welcoming local beach shacks or restaurants. This is one of Watamu’s most authentic experiences — grilled catch-of-the-day fish, prepared right on the coals, and served with an ice-cold Tusker beer as you watch the waves roll in.
Thanks to the protective coral reef just offshore, the swimming conditions are calm and ideal. You can even hire a local dhow or dinghy for a very affordable rate and head out beyond the reef to spot dolphins, turtles, and even seasonal humpback whales.
Watamu Beach is one of the best places to swim in Africa, combining natural beauty, rich marine biodiversity, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers looking for a Kenya beach holiday with culture and charm.
Segera Retreat Kenya
Clear water runs deep in central Kenya, between the glorious Mount Kenya to the east and the Great Rift Valley to the west. Swimming in rivers, waterfalls and crystal springs makes hearts sings and bodies come alive. Take a tip from us, when you go to Kenya again you should really head towards the Laikipia Plateau to a flawless retreat called Segera.
Because this is a stunningly diverse and seemingly magical environment where you will find woodlands, grasslands and fertile riverbeds. Clear water flows from the Aberdare Mountains down to the Segera River in the south. Stand beside the cascading waterfall flowing from the Segera River, then seek the natural Ivy Springs in the Valley of Kiseregai Creek which attracts herds of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, warthog and myriad other species throughout the year.
The water is clear at Segera Retreat thanks to the owners’ commitment to the ongoing conservation of this region and its natural resources. Wild game roams the 20,000 hectares of the nature reserve where travellers become part of sustainable tourism in action. So this is a little different vibe and place for swimming in Africa.
We love the enticing outdoor hot tubs on private decks of lavish eco villas – warm and inviting to swim in! What about the huge swimming pool and a pampering spa where water flows as treatment for all your aches and pains too?
Swimming in Africa and Lake Victoria – the Rift Valley of Kenya
Have you ever dreamed of swimming in the clearest waters of Africa’s Lake Victoria? Kenya is renowned for several clear water lakes, brimming with fish, algae, frogs, and mind-boggling biodiversity. Dating back as long as 40 million years ago, Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is made up of some of the oldest and largest and deepest lakes in the world. Kenya is a fundamental part of the African Great Lakes region which run through Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Rwanda and Tanzania. These lakes are an integral part of the massive East African Rift that follows the Red Sea in the north down to Kenya, Uganda, and the fringes of South Sudan. The Great Rift runs along two separate branches that only join in Southern Tanzania along its border with Zambia. These are called the Western Rift and the Eastern Rift valleys.
You would have heard of the hugest African lakes, Lake Malawi (the world’s eighth-largest freshwater lake by area), Lake Victoria (the second largest freshwater lake in the world by area), and Lake Tanganyika (the world’s second-largest freshwater lake by volume and depth). It is unbelievable that Kenya has 64 lakes and 8 of these are linked in a chain in the Rift Valley
Get out there to see these water visions and then treat your kids to a Kenya island holiday at Mfangano Island Camp where joie de vivre awaits on Lake Victoria. One of our top 5 places to swim in clear fresh water, this is the perfect family holiday destination complete with plenty of watery lake activities – fishing, birding, sundowner cruises, water sports as well as rock art hikes.
Best Beaches in Africa on Lake Malawi
Did you know that Lake Malawi is the 8th largest lake in the world and the third largest in Africa? It is also the second deepest lake in Africa and is filled with fresh clear water that runs through the East African Rift system, stretching more than 482km. It is hard to believe that Lake Malawi takes up more than a third of the country in water with a total surface area of about 30000km2!
How cool is it that this lake is famous for its white beaches, and its scuba diving and snorkelling and other water sports – so you may as well be on an island. Find luxury accommodation on the shores where you can settle in and spend every day in clear waters swimming, viewing incredible birds and the more than 1 000 Cichlid fish species endemic to the lake. Dive into the gorgeous clear sapphire waters of this natural phenomenon for some of the most rewarding adventures you will ever experience. It is one of the best places for fresh water swimming in Africa.
Why not book into the magnificent Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel, once known as the Grand Beach Hotel and the epitome of all things elegant. It is a great base from which to explore the clear lake waters as it is centrally situated along Lake Malawi shores and boasts some of the best scenery around. Old colonial-style architecture with whitewashed walls and spacious airy rooms. This hotel in Salima is located within easy access to kayaking and boat tours, hiking, snorkelling, bird and lizard watching among other fun activities on nearby Namalenje and Heaven Islands.
Nkhata Bay – One of the Best Beaches in Africa
Nkatha Bay Malawi is located way up north, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Known for its friendly vibe and the local community’s adaptation to low-impact tourism, this picturesque destination offers a laid-back atmosphere. There are a couple of sandy bays and a stunning peninsula with intact coastal forest, making it a magnificent natural setting. But Nkatha Bay stands out not only for its beauty but for its engaging interactions with locals.
A variety of activity centers offer guided walks, scuba diving, snorkelling, and kayaking adventures. The local bars and restaurants serve delicious, authentic food at affordable prices — the perfect places to eat and meet fellow travellers.
Nkhata Bay is the most northerly point reached by David Livingstone during his Lake Malawi expedition. The harbour is the heart of the local fishing industry, and a must-try dish here is the local fish chambo with nsima, a unique maize porridge. Pair it with a Carlsberg (green, gold, or brown) and you’ll truly feel part of the soul of Malawi.
The town also boasts vibrant markets, shops, restaurants, and ATMs. However, the real charm is in its beaches — perfect for relaxing and soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
The famous Malawi ferry Ilala stops in Nkatha Bay as part of its weekly schedule along Lake Malawi. This is a great place to hop on board and head to Likoma Island for a deeper Malawi adventure. There’s also a growing number of local boats offering access to Likoma Island, opening up more opportunities for exploration and cultural experiences in Malawi.
Cape Maclear Malawi – swimming in Africa
Cape Maclear Malawi has been a beloved holiday destination for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. Located within Lake Malawi National Park, the village of Chembe boasts a stunning setting along a palm-lined beach. The beach is lapped by translucent green-blue waters and faces an archipelago of impressive boulder-strewn islands, offering breathtaking views.
Chembe is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. It’s not a quick stopover; you’ll want to settle in, enjoy the local budget-friendly accommodations, and embrace the laid-back vibe. There are plenty of local bars, restaurants, and activity centers offering kayaking, snorkelling, and diving courses. One of the unique highlights of Cape Maclear is the ability to watch the sunset over Lake Malawi while sipping on a refreshing Carlsberg at one of the beach bars.
For more adventurous souls, swimming to Thumbi Island from Cape Maclear is a memorable experience. Lake Malawi swimming is renowned for its clear, calm waters, and swimming out to the island is a thrilling challenge for strong swimmers. Though not for the faint-hearted, it’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the serene beauty of Cape Maclear.
Likoma Island Malawi– best freshwater African Beaches
Swimming off Likoma Island is one of those rare travel experiences you will never forget. If you’re seeking an offbeat destination with some of the best beaches in Africa, Likoma Island is the ideal getaway. There are two ways to reach this stunning tropical paradise: you can either fly to Kaya Mawa or another barefoot luxury lodge via air charter, or you can embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Ilala ferry from Cape Maclear, which I personally did in 1988. Unlike the typical travel blogs, I prefer to share authentic stories from my own experiences, hoping to inspire travelers to visit Likoma Island for themselves.
Located in Mozambique’s territorial waters, yet part of Malawi, Likoma Island is historically rich, with an Anglican mission dating back to the 1860s. The island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Africa, where you can enjoy a swim in clear blue waters and relax on unspoiled sandy shores. The surrounding landscape, dotted with ancient baobab trees, adds to the island’s untouched charm. Likoma is perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape, with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking in its crystal-clear waters. Its serene environment is ideal for those who wish to connect with nature and unwind away from the crowds.
When you need a break from the sun, explore the island’s cultural heritage, including the Anglican Cathedral of St Peter, built in 1911. The quiet town offers a unique glimpse into the past, adding to the island’s mystical allure.
Whether you’re after peaceful relaxation or thrilling adventures in the water, Likoma Island offers the perfect beach escape, where time seems to slow down. Take a dip in the warm waters or go for a swim to nearby Thumbi Island for even more scenic beauty.
Best beaches for swimming in Mozambique
Swimming in the Bazaruto Archipelago
The Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique, comprising the Bazaruto and Benguerra Islands, is quickly gaining recognition as one of the top diving and water sports destinations in Africa. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s the ideal getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure in an untouched paradise. The archipelago offers a handful of exclusive hotels, situated on the best beaches, where visitors can swim in Africa’s clearest waters and experience the unspoiled natural beauty of the region
When it comes to diving in Bazaruto, this is where it truly shines. The waters surrounding the archipelago are home to a fascinating array of marine life. You can expect to encounter rare creatures like the massive Sunfish, Potato bass, Napoleon wrasses, dolphins, whales, and turtles. Diving here promises an unforgettable experience, with warm waters averaging 25°C year-round. For diving enthusiasts, the chance to spot the elusive dugongs adds a touch of magic to the experience. If you’re interested, we offer incredible Mozambique dive packages for those eager to explore Bazaruto’s underwater wonders.
The beaches in Bazaruto are perfect for swimming in the clear, blue Indian Ocean waters. Rated among the best beaches in Africa, the islands offer unrivaled scenic beauty. Don’t forget to take a boat ride at sunset, where you may spot dolphins and whales frolicking in the pristine waters between the islands.
Voyage2Africa is a Mozambique holiday specialist and we have been planning bespoke holidays to Bazaruto and Mozambique for over 20 years – true story. Get in touch to discover this gem with some of the best beaches in Africa. Discover our Bazaruto packages and luxury holidays with us!
The beaches at Azura Benguerra Mozambique
The beaches at Azura Benguerra Island are among the best beaches in Africa, known for their powdery white sand, warm turquoise waters, and world-class swimming conditions. This luxury Mozambique beach lodge offers a truly immersive island holiday with beachfront villas, direct ocean access, and some of the most beautiful swimming spots in Bazaruto. Relax at the Peri Peri Beach Club, enjoy gourmet seafood at two elegant restaurants, or indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the on-site spa.
Linked to the clear water swimming experience are a variety of marine activities, from scuba diving and snorkeling to sunset dhow cruises and deep-sea fishing. Bazaruto’s rich marine biodiversity includes sightings of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and even the elusive dugong. Fishing charters from Azura Benguerra offer a chance to catch kingfish, dogtooth tuna, and wahoo, making it a top destination for both leisure and sport anglers.
Whether you’re relaxing under swaying palms, swimming in Africa’s clearest ocean, or exploring the reefs offshore, Azura Benguerra delivers the ultimate luxury beach and marine safari experience in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago.
Swimming on Benguerra Island is one of the top highlights of a luxury beach holiday in Mozambique. This idyllic island in the Bazaruto Archipelago offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, warm Indian Ocean currents, and pristine beaches perfect for safe, leisurely swimming. Guests staying at exclusive lodges like Azura Benguerra or &Beyond Benguerra Island enjoy direct beach access from their villas, with calm lagoons ideal for both swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding coral reefs provide stunning marine biodiversity, making every swim a scenic experience. Benguerra Island is a true paradise for ocean lovers seeking the best swimming beaches in Africa.
The best African beaches at Tofo Mozambique
On the Ponta da Barra peninsula in southeastern Mozambique lies the idyllic Tofo. It was once a small traditional fishing village but is has now grown to an exceptionally popular tourist destination. It is the perfect swimming and surfing beach lined with a number of lively local beach bars, restaurants and accommodation options as well as a small local market. There are also a heap of activity centers, notably Liquid Adventures which offer dive charters and scuba courses.
To call the very small and intimate Tofo a town feels like a big order. There are half a dozen sandy “roads”, and a tiny local market, plus a few restaurants and great bars, four or five dive shops, and a handful of accommodation establishments. The nearest ATM is a 30-minute walk away and power cuts are frequent. And by the way, it totally is pronounced tofu.
Then there is also the smaller Tofinho Beach which is quieter and one of the best breaks for surfing in Mozambique. The shore-based fishing is excellent and there are miles of beach to explore further south. The vibe is relaxed and the locals are friendly.
Best remote wildlife and beach in Mozambique – Ponta Membene Maputo National Park
In the heart of Maputo National Park on a beautiful stretch of coastal forest, behind the sand dunes lies the amazing Ponta Membene Lodge. It’s a rare find in Africa where you have a National Park behind you to explore on game drives and one of the best beaches in Africa a few meters away from your chalet or the restaurant. You can choose a self-catering option or full board and enjoy what can only be described as some of the most remote and radical coastline in southern Mozambique.
Go north or south for as long as you can walk, and you will discover rare gems of beaches that few have swum on before. The Ponta Membene Dune Chalets are ideally positioned on the lowest part of the coastal dune and from the west you get the African sunset through the forest over the wetland. The equally cool Forest Chalets are deep in the undisturbed dune forest on the edge of the wetland with game coming in to drink each afternoon. There is a choice of one- or two-bedroom forest or dune chalets, all well equipped with their own self-catering kitchen, outdoor and indoor dining and living area, private bathrooms with an outdoor shower, and a firepit or braai area just off your verandah.
Theres a small shore break at Ponta Membene but at low tide it’s a really safe swimming beach and you will be swimming in Africa. As one of the coolest and newest places to visit in Mozambique for a safari and beach experience in one. Easy to get to on a self-drive holiday from South Africa or access via the numerous daily flights into Maputo.
Best beaches in the Maldives
The Maldives are a beautiful chain of islands in the Indian Ocean, and a favorite place for beach and island lovers worldwide. The beaches are simply spectacular and some of the best African beaches across the continent.
If you are a beach lover looking for the most perfect destination to travel to in Africa, consider our advice on the most famous beaches and places to swim in the Maldives.
The best part about a holiday in the Maldives is the clear turquoise water where you spend hours swimming and diving, windsurfing and kite surfing, boating and relaxing. Spend carefree days on sun-drenched beaches and soak up the tropical sunshine in this fascinating archipelago that boasts. In this magical place everything slows down and nothing else matters – enjoy beach picnics as you swim and gaze over the clear waters. It almost seems unreal. When you dive, you will gasp at the sea gardens under the waters – the islands are blessed with unspoiled reefs teeming with unusual aquatic species.
Stay at the 5-star Ayada Maldives Private Island Resort and snorkel with dolphins in the crystal-clear waters. Big game fishing, fly-fishing, traditional Maldivian fishing at sunset, tour in glass-bottomed boat, venture over the equator, island hopping and picnics, dolphin spotting and snorkelling.
Cocoa Island, South Male Atoll
COMO Cocoa Island in the Maldives epitomizes barefoot luxury. It is small and private and is easily reached by a 40-minute speed boat from Male International Airport.
The rooms have a minimalist style and are all reached from wooden jetties over the lagoon’s crystal clear waters. So, when it comes to swimming you can access the sea from the steps leading down off your deck. The waters are aquamarine and perfect, and you can swim for miles in any direction. Snorkel around the protected corals or venture further to the house reefs for a scuba adventure.
The scuba diving around Cocoa Island is surreal with exceptional marine life and reefs just are just a short boat ride away. The private beach picnics are a magical way to end off your day.
Hulhumale Beach, North Male Atoll
This rates as one of the best beaches in the Maldives with white sands, crystal clear waters and amazing reefs. It is south of the North Male Atoll and the island covers almost 200 hectares. The beach is located on the sunrise end of the island and the view from there is worth an early morning start to catch the dawn.
The island is a gem to explore with markets, roadside cafes and restaurants.
Our top 5 best places to swim in Africa’s clearest waters prove that there are so many destinations in Africa offering swimming in idyllic situations. Beaches, oceans, lakes, rivers and waterfalls, Africa has it all. All you need to know about the very best beaches and resorts along Africa’s beautiful coastline.