The best beaches in Africa that you should visit in 2025

If you're searching for a leisure spot, you'll be pleased to discover that Africa boasts some of the best beaches. Notable destinations such as Diani in Kenya and Anse Lazio in Seychelles are renowned for their stunning waterfronts and clear seas. Other excellent options include Le Morne in Mauritius and Shela in Lamu. TUKO.co.ke spoke to Emily Clifton, the Founder and Managing Director of Tribal Adventures, a renowned travel agency, who shared expert insights on beach destinations across Africa.

Key takeaways

• Africa has many highly rated shores, with white sands and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
• Top-rated sights include Diani Beach in Kenya, Anse Lazio in Seychelles, and Le Morne in Mauritius.
• Seychelles stands out with world-renowned beaches like Anse Lazio, Anse Source D'Argent, and Anse Georgette.
• Kenya offers awe-inspiring beach locations, including Diani, Watamu, and Shela in Lamu.

The best beaches in Africa

Read also

Nyeri, Kiambu among 10 counties to experience electricity interruptions on Wednesday, May 21

When compiling this list of the best beaches in Africa, we relied on publicly available sources like Safari Bookings and TripAdvisor. The list is subjective and in no particular order.

1. Anse Lazio, Seychelles

Anse Lazio on Praslin Island, Seychelles, is a stunning beach that leaves visitors spellbound. It is one of the top African beach destinations, loved for its healthy reefs and vivid coral gardens. Lush coconut palms and towering granite boulders create a tropical haven, providing an ideal setting for exploration and adventurous activities.

2. Diani Beach, Kenya

Diani Beach features a series of interconnected shores located south of Mombasa. They include Diani and Galu (stretching 15 kilometres), Tiwi, Funizi Island, Kinondo, and Chale Island. Diani features beaches with the clearest water in Africa.

Read also

Ong'ondo Were, Babu Owino and other prominent Luo politicians who married outside their tribe

3. Anse Source D'Argent, Seychelles

Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Africa, is a top attraction in Seychelles. Accessed via the Union Estate for a fee, the beach is well-protected by a coral reef, ensuring safe, shallow waters. Anse Source D'Argent is famous for its beauty and appearance in films, TV shows, and photo shoots.

4. Anse Georgette, Seychelles

Often ranked as one of the prettiest beaches in Africa, Anse features a peaceful bank with transparent waters and dense vegetation. The coast is surrounded by Takamaka trees and edged with massive granite boulders.

5. Le Morne, Mauritius

If you are looking for a picture-perfect destination, Le Morne Beach in Mauritius should be your first pick. It is nestled at the foot of the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Brabant mountain making it one of the safest beaches in Africa. Popular activities in the area include surfing, diving, and kiteboarding.

Read also

Bien Baraza beats Diamond, Zuchu to win Best Artist Eastern Africa at Trace Awards 2025

6. Trou aux Biches, Mauritius

Trou aux Biches in Mauritius is a top beach destination, popular with families due to its clear waters and safe swimming conditions. There are ample water sports and a great coral reef a short swim from the shore. Local restaurants offer delicious cosmopolitan cuisine, making it an ideal spot for a family-friendly beach getaway.

7. Pemba Island, Zanzibar

This hidden gem with pristine sands and a laid-back vibe offers secluded shores lined with traditional Swahili villages and customary dhows. Its natural beauty makes it a paradise for those looking to escape the crowds.

8. Watamu, Kenya

This beach in Watamu, Kilifi County, Kenya is a tranquil haven along the Indian Ocean's shore. It features long stretches of clear coastline, overgrown mangroves, and a marine park. Watamu is the perfect holiday hideout if you prefer a smaller, quieter, and more private experience.

Read also

Best beaches in Kenya that are perfect for your vacation

9. Shela Beach, Lamu, Kenya

Shela Village on Lamu Island is a laid-back beach paradise contrasting the bustling Lamu Old Town. Its prime location on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach makes it ideal for those seeking a tranquil Kenya Coast holiday. You can reach Shela by boat or walking from Old Town.

10. Wild Coast, South Africa

The Wild Coast in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, is a 300-kilometre stretch of waterfront in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province. It's known for its dramatic cliffs, beachfront, and shipwrecks. The Wild Coast is a popular destination for hiking, 4x4ing, and water sports.

11. Quirimbas, Mozambique

The Quirimbas Archipelago is famous for its cultural and historical significance and stunning beaches. Notable islands include Medjumbe, Quilalea, Vamizi, and Ibo. The best time to visit is from May to September for a perfect getaway for honeymooners, and couples. You can also scuba dive or combine the holiday with a South African safari.

Read also

Things to do in Mombasa: Activities and tourist attractions

12. Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique

Ponta do Ouro is a popular relaxation stop in southern Mozambique, known for its golden sands and vibrant marine life. This beach offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity due to its proximity to Maputo National Park.

13. Mnemba Island, Tanzania

This iconic location, just off the northeast coast of Unguja Island, showcases barefoot luxury at its finest. A romantic hideaway, it offers a private paradise with an unblemished beachfront and the shade of a casuarina pine forest.

14. Mtende Beach, Zanzibar

Mtende Beach in Zanzibar is a stunning cove beach between two rock formations, known for its dramatic tides. This protected land features an eco-hotel and limited phone service, making it a perfect spot to unplug. Visitors can enjoy swings, natural tide pools, and local restaurants like Usumba Rock offering delicious Swahili cuisine.

15. Camp's Bay Beach, South Africa

This Cape Town shore is a vibrant landmark featuring soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and magnificent mountain views. From swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a meal at a nearby café, Camp's Bay Beach offers a laid-back and picturesque experience.

Read also

When is the best time to visit Kenya and Tanzania? A quick guide

16. Pereybere Beach, Mauritius

Pereybere Public Beach is a sociable area in a small bay. The sand is white and soft, with no corals or stones so you can walk and swim barefoot. In addition, it is family-friendly, featuring turquoise waters, food trucks, and well-maintained facilities.

17. Plage de l'Ermitage, Reunion Island

Plage de l'Ermitage, also known as Hermitage Beach, is a beautiful white sand beach between Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and La Saline. Its shallow swimming area is protected by a natural coral reef, making it perfect for snorkelling and family-friendly activities. The beach is lined with filaos trees providing natural shade for picnickers.

18. Belle Mare Beach, Mauritius

Belle Mare is near the town of Mahebourg on the South East coast of Mauritius, between Belle Mare and Pointe de Flacq. Travellers here will love paddleboarding or taking slow walks along the sands.

19. Tarrafal Beach, Cape Verde

Tarrafal on Santiago Island has great fishing opportunities. Sip on a fresh coconut, watch colourful boats pass by, and explore the local market for a truly authentic experience.

Read also

KPLC lists areas in 12 counties scheduled for power maintenance today

Interview with managing director of a travel agency

In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke, Emily Clifton, the Founder and Managing Director of Tribal Adventures, shares her insights on African beach destinations and highlights the travel trends she has observed among holidaymakers booking beach getaways across the continent.

Q: What key factors, in your experience, make a beach destination in Africa stand out as a top travel choice for local and international tourists alike?

Such a great question! Top of mind are soft, white sandy beaches, especially the peaceful, less crowded ones. In Kenya, many luxury travellers are now choosing serene gems like Diani, Watamu, and Malindi over the busy shores of Mombasa.

We’re also seeing guests asking for properties with wide beaches, especially in places like Zanzibar, as some shorelines have started to shrink (thanks, climate change…). And of course, experiences matter more than ever. Think skydiving over the ocean, parasailing, dreamy dhow cruises, snorkelling, or deep-sea diving; today’s travellers are all about unforgettable (and Instagrammable) moments.

Read also

Natural resources found in Kenya and where they are mined

Q: Have you observed any trends among travellers booking African beach holidays in terms of sustainability, personalisation and cultural immersion?

Since founding Tribal Adventures nearly a decade ago, I’ve seen African beach holidays evolve beautifully. Today, travellers are drawn to destinations that protect the environment through conservation and uplift communities via education and employment.

We’re also noticing a growing trend toward slower travel, like combining beach stays with scenic train journeys, to reduce the impact of air travel. As for personalisation, we’ve seen a clear shift toward more personalised experiences. Today’s travellers want beach holidays that feel uniquely theirs — from private chefs serving their favorite meals to curated excursions based on their interests. It’s no longer just about where you go — it’s about how you experience it.

When it comes to cultural immersion, travellers value interactions with locals who can share their culture through dance, food & storytelling, particularly when integrated naturally into their stay.

Read also

100+ coolest game of thrones names for male and female characters

Q: To what extent do safety, accessibility and infrastructure influence a travel agency’s decision to promote certain African beach destinations over others?

Safety, accessibility and infrastructure play a vital role in deciding which destinations we promote. Client safety is always our top priority. There’s no compromise there. Accessibility is key too. Getting to a destination should be smooth and enjoyable. Take some island beaches, for example; reaching them may involve hopping on and off boats. While that’s fun for some, it’s not ideal for seniors, young families, or travellers with mobility needs.

And let’s be honest, when it comes to infrastructure in parts of Africa, it can be… a bit of an adventure! (Kidding… kind of.) But truly, even the most stunning beach is a tough sell if it’s hard to reach or lacks the right facilities.

Q: How does your agency ensure that it provides an exceptional experience for its customers through authentic and responsible travel?

Read also

The River Between summary, characters, themes, and analysis

Tribal Adventures partners with sustainable tour operators across Africa, from hotels and airlines to ground transport and activity providers, to ensure every trip supports responsible travel. To guarantee authenticity, we personally visit each location or conduct thorough research, so we can confidently recommend only the best experiences to our clients.

Q: What advice would you give to someone using a travel agency to visit a new place for the first time?

It’s important to know who you’re booking with. Many travel agencies are new, hence could be inexperienced, and some may not be licensed. So, do your homework; check their presence on social media, read reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, and look for genuine feedback from past travellers. A little research goes a long way in ensuring a smooth, stress-free adventure.

Be clear about your expectations upfront so your wants and needs are understood. And always review the fine print; know exactly what your package includes and excludes to avoid surprises during your trip.

Read also

Faith Chepngetich Kipyegon bio: Husband, house, children, career records

What country in Africa has the best beaches?

Seychelles is renowned for its dazzling coastline, featuring world-famous shores such as Anse Lazio, Anse Source D'Argent, and Anse Georgette.

What is the number one beach in Kenya?

The number one beach in Kenya is Diani, having won Africa's Leading Beach Destination consecutively in two years (2024 and 2023). The iconic tourist attraction features bright sands, transparent waters, and marine life.

Which country in Africa is best for tourism?

Tanzania has been voted the best country to visit for tourism by numerous publications, including US News Travel. It has diverse attractions like the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Final word

The best beaches in Africa include Anse Lazio in Seychelles, Le Morne in Mauritius, Sandwich Harbour in Namibia, Pemba in Tanzania, and Watamu in Kenya. They offer unparalleled experiences for sun-seekers and nature lovers.

What is the best time to visit the Serengeti? Tuko.co.ke published an informative article covering everything you need to know about visiting the national park.

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is best known for the annual Great Migration. Though you can visit all year round, some offer more excitement than others. Find out more in this read.

Source: TUKO.co.ke