The Best Luxury African Beach Destinations/White Sand Beaches
Africa features a variety of exquisite beach locales. Zanzibar, Tanzania, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, azure oceans, and lively coral reefs, rendering it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and kitesurfing. The Seychelles presents picturesque coves, opulent resorts, and exceptional prospects for island hopping and leisure. The Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique is secluded and unspoiled, including exquisite beaches ideal for diving and fishing. Other prominent beach locations comprise Diani Beach in Kenya, recognised for its tranquil seas and varied marine biodiversity, and the Garden Route in South Africa, which merges picturesque beaches with family-oriented activities.
After your exhilarating safari, consider indulging in a tranquil respite on the pristine shores of the Indian Ocean.
A safari is invariably the centrepiece of a visit in Africa – and justifiably so! In which other locations globally can one observe such a diverse array of ecosystems? From the expansive plains of the Serengeti, the site of the Great Migration, to the dense jungles of Rwanda, which shelter the mountain gorillas… No other region in the world rivals Africa!
Luxury African Beach Destinations
Nevertheless, Africa possesses far more than merely its exceptional wildlife observation. The continent boasts remarkable cities such as Cape Town, breathtaking landmarks like Victoria Falls, and several scenic beaches (see to our blog on a Cape Town and Victoria Falls combined safari). Two weeks on safari is excessive, leading to fatigue; so, it is prudent to explore other attractions that Africa presents.
Africa’s beaches are frequently disregarded, since individuals often fail to recognise the exhaustion that accompanies a week on safari, characterised by early awakenings and late-night narratives over campfires. Regardless of whether it is a familial excursion or a honeymoon, one never desires to conclude a safari; yet, the prospect of lounging on a beach is invariably appealing! We have identified our premier spots for a safari and beach holiday:
The Top Luxury African Beach Destinations
1. Tanzania
There are outstanding choices for a beach vacation, either along the serene shores of the Indian Ocean or on the tropical sandy beaches of the nearby islands, such as Mafia and Pemba. Zanzibar is the premier island, ideal for those seeking luxury and extensive stretches of exquisite beaches adorned with palm trees and blue waters. This location offers accommodations for all, including Pongwe, Matlai, Baraza Resort and Spa, and Kilindi Zanzibar. Nonetheless, if you aspire to have a nature-centric vacation, the adjacent islands of Mafia and Pemba provide superior diving prospects, particularly from November to March when whale sharks inhabit the region. Pole Pole is the ideal destination!
2. Kenya
The Kenyan coastline is readily accessible post-safari and provides numerous possibilities to indulge in one of the opulent resorts we are pleased to recommend. This type of accommodation offers an ideal opportunity to rejuvenate following your early morning game drives.
Diani in Kenya is readily accessible from one of the country’s safari camps within a day. Diani is an ideal beach destination for the active traveler, featuring establishments like Waterlovers, which offers access to some of the continent’s premier windsurfing, diving, and kitesurfing opportunities.
3. Mauritius
Conveniently reachable from Nairobi and with some of the most captivating undersea features globally, Mauritius is an ideal locale for a serene continuation of your African safari. This island paradise, situated east of Madagascar in the turquoise waters of the southwestern Indian Ocean, offers direct flights to the African mainland. Featuring the world’s third largest reef and premier diving opportunities, it serves as an extraordinary gateway destination, offering a variety of beautifully situated beachside accommodations to accommodate diverse preferences and requirements, including families, solitary travelers, couples, and honeymooners. Mauritius presents opulent spa retreats, distinctive avian fauna, colonial remnants, golf facilities, and diving resorts, making it a locale where one can choose to be either leisurely or engaged as desired.
4. Seychelles
As one travels further south on safari, it becomes increasingly challenging to incorporate a beach destination; so, Cape Town and Victoria Falls should be contemplated. However, if you can allocate time between locations, this presents a multitude of opportunities—not only the magnificent Zanzibar, Mozambique, and Mauritius but also, for those seeking the utmost luxury, Seychelles!
This pristine archipelago, with over one hundred islands, is stunning, featuring warm, crystalline waters and striking peaks. The Seychelles are situated 1,000 miles from the eastern coast of Africa, rendering this locale an optimal beach retreat in conjunction with a safari vacation in Kenya. Engage in island hopping, snorkelling, and diving, or elevate your experience by indulging in a rejuvenating treatment at one of the exquisite resort spas. These provide a variety of therapies that will rejuvenate your body and spirit.
