Best Beach Holidays in Africa

Africa's Top Beach Lodges & Island Resorts

Tranquil African Beach Holidays Designed for Pure Relaxation

A beach holiday in Africa is the ultimate escape for travelers seeking peace, sunshine, and barefoot luxury. At Voyage2Africa, we understand the value of doing nothing—of simply relaxing on a white sandy beach as turquoise waves gently lap the shore. It’s about switching off and soaking in the warmth, beauty, and rhythm of nature.

We handpick the best beaches in Africa for scenery, privacy, and atmosphere. Think of gently curving bays framed by swaying coconut palms, soft sand beneath your feet, and an endless azure horizon stretching before you. Our selection includes everything from luxury island villas in Mozambique and Zanzibar to eco dune chalets along South Africa’s coast and five-star beach resorts in the Seychelles.

Whatever your travel style—romantic escape, family beach break, or a post-safari retreat—we match you with the right property. Choose self-catering cabanas for flexibility, rustic lodges for immersive nature, or full-service beachfront hotels for indulgent pampering. Each location is carefully chosen for its beauty, accessibility, and ability to deliver the tranquil, soul-soothing experience that defines the best African beach

Discover the Best Beach Holidays in Africa with Voyage2Africa

Africa’s beaches offer a spectacular alternative to the well-trodden resorts of the Indian Ocean. Think white sands without the crowds, coral reefs brimming with life, and barefoot luxury that comes with genuine cultural warmth. At Voyage2Africa, we uncover the continent’s most exceptional coastal escapes—places where time slows down, sea breezes soothe the spirit, and days unfold between the beach and the water. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a multigenerational retreat, or a post-safari cooldown, Africa’s beach destinations deliver charm, privacy, and unforgettable moments.

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique – Barefoot Bliss and Island Luxury

Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago is one of Africa’s most exclusive beach destinations. Located just off the coast of Vilanculos, this chain of six islands is home to dazzling white beaches, azure seas, and some of the continent’s finest island lodges. Stay in a luxury beachfront villa at Azura Benguerra or &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge, and wake each morning to ocean views and barefoot breakfasts in the sand.

Bazaruto beach holidays are ideal for honeymooners and couples seeking seclusion, but families will love the dhow cruises, scuba diving with turtles, and horse rides along the beach. You can also enjoy deep-sea fishing, snorkeling over protected reefs, and sandbank picnics in this Indian Ocean paradise.

Lake Malawi – Freshwater Beaches and Island Escapes

Often overlooked, Lake Malawi offers a beach experience like no other—crystal-clear freshwater instead of salt, with no tides or dangerous currents. Its inland beaches are ideal for family beach holidays in Africa, combining safe swimming with kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing. Golden sandy shores and mountain backdrops create an atmosphere that feels both tropical and wild.

Base yourself on Likoma Island at Kaya Mawa, a sustainable beach lodge perfect for couples and families alike. Explore island trails, paddle out at sunset, or dive into one of Africa’s most biodiverse freshwater ecosystems. Lake Malawi is a true hidden gem where beach meets bush in one unspoiled setting.

South Africa’s Coastal Escapes – From the Wild Coast to the Winelands

South Africa isn’t just about safaris and winelands—it’s also home to some of the best beaches in southern Africa. From the dramatic cliffs of the Garden Route to the subtropical waters of KwaZulu-Natal, there’s a beach for every style of traveler. Families will love Umhlanga Rocks, while couples can find romantic hideaways near Nature’s Valley or the De Hoop Nature Reserve.

For something truly remote, try Kosi Bay or Rocktail Beach Camp, where empty beaches stretch into the horizon and leatherback turtles nest under moonlight. South Africa’s beaches are also ideal for combining with inland safaris or cultural city breaks in Cape Town or Durban.

Zanzibar – Spice Island Shores and Dolphin Encounters

Zanzibar is one of Africa’s most atmospheric island destinations, where Swahili culture, palm-lined beaches, and world-class diving come together in one warm, exotic escape. Located just off the coast of Tanzania, it’s perfect for those who want more than just beach time—offering Stone Town tours, dhow cruises, and spice plantation visits alongside soft white sands and turquoise waters.

On the east coast, you’ll find some of the best beach resorts in Zanzibar, including Baraza, Zuri Zanzibar, and Matemwe Lodge. Powdery beaches stretch for miles, and dolphins are often spotted just offshore. For active travelers, Zanzibar also offers snorkeling, kitesurfing, and scuba diving in protected marine reserves.

Kenya Coast – Beach & Safari in One Seamless Journey

Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast is a natural extension of its safari experience. After tracking the Big Five in the Masai Mara or Amboseli, unwind on palm-shaded beaches along the southern coast near Diani or the historic town of Lamu to the north. Kenya’s coast blends culture, adventure, and tropical relaxation—ideal for couples, solo travelers, or families wanting a variety-packed trip.

Stay at beachfront retreats such as Almanara Villas, The Sands at Chale Island, or Peponi Hotel on Lamu. Activities include reef diving, kiteboarding, sea kayaking, and swims with dolphins—or simply lazing under a thatched umbrella with a chilled drink in hand.

Your Perfect African Beach Holiday Starts Here

Africa’s beaches are as diverse as they are breathtaking—whether long and open or secluded and intimate, each one offers a postcard-perfect setting for rest and rejuvenation. Enjoy crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and vibrant coastal culture across destinations like Mozambique, Zanzibar, and South Africa. From luxury beachfront hotels and forest villas to eco-chalets and cliffside retreats, we offer a wide range of handpicked stays. Whether you’re after romance, solitude, or family fun, Voyage2Africa will tailor your beach holiday to match your needs and travel style. Let us help you plan the ultimate coastal escape today.

 

What are the best beach destinations in Africa for a relaxing holiday?

Top African beach destinations for relaxation include Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, Zanzibar’s spice-scented shores, Mauritius’s five-star resorts, and Lake Malawi’s peaceful freshwater beaches. Each offers a unique setting—from barefoot island luxury to remote eco-retreats. With calm waters, soft sand, and fewer crowds than traditional Indian Ocean resorts, these destinations deliver the tranquility travelers seek. Voyage2Africa helps you choose the perfect place to unwind, tailored to your travel style and preferences.

Is Mozambique a good destination for beach holidays?

Yes, Mozambique is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets for beach holidays. The Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos offer crystal-clear waters, pristine sandbanks, and luxurious island lodges like Azura Benguerra. It’s ideal for romantic getaways, honeymoons, and post-safari downtime. Activities include snorkeling, dhow cruises, diving with turtles, and sandbank picnics. Mozambique’s warm hospitality and laid-back island charm make it a top choice for those seeking beauty, seclusion, and barefoot luxury.

Can I combine a safari with a beach holiday in Africa?

Absolutely. Safari and beach holidays are one of the most rewarding ways to explore Africa. Begin your trip with thrilling wildlife encounters in Kruger, Serengeti, or Zambia, then relax on Indian Ocean beaches in Mozambique, Zanzibar, or Kenya. This contrast between bush and coast offers balance and variety—ideal for honeymoons, families, or multigenerational travel. Voyage2Africa handles all logistics, including flights and transfers, for a seamless safari-to-beach journey.

What are the best family-friendly beach resorts in Africa?

Family-friendly beach resorts in Africa include Diamonds Mapenzi Beach in Zanzibar, LUX Belle Mare in Mauritius, and Kaya Mawa on Lake Malawi. These properties offer spacious suites, kid-friendly menus, shallow swimming areas, and engaging activities like snorkeling, sailing, or island hikes. Some even have kids’ clubs and babysitting services. These destinations are safe, scenic, and ideal for creating unforgettable family memories. We match each family with the right location and setup.

Are there off-the-beaten-path beaches in Africa?

Yes, Africa is full of lesser-known beach escapes for travelers seeking privacy and nature. Try Lake Malawi’s untouched shoreline, South Africa’s Kosi Bay and De Hoop Nature Reserve, or Lamu Island off Kenya’s coast. These spots combine stunning landscapes with cultural authenticity, far from the typical tourist routes. Perfect for digital detox, barefoot walks, and reconnecting with nature, these destinations are ideal for couples, solo travelers, or those seeking mindful travel experiences.

What type of accommodation is available for African beach holidays?

African beach holidays offer a wide range of accommodations to suit every travel style. Choose from luxury island lodges, eco-conscious dune camps, boutique beachfront hotels, and self-catering villas. Whether you want a rustic thatched chalet in Kosi Bay, a five-star retreat in Zanzibar, or a family-friendly bungalow in Mauritius, Voyage2Africa selects properties for beauty, service, and location. Each stay is designed for relaxation, comfort, and an authentic connection to the coast.

Have a question?