Africa’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, offering powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the gentle sway of palm leaves in the sea breeze. While the Caribbean, Thailand, and the Maldives are renowned for their idyllic shores, Africa’s beaches are equally mesmerizing and diverse.
Embark on a journey along the African coast to discover the continent’s most beautiful beaches. From Egypt’s northeastern shores to the remote islands of the Seychelles, each country presents a unique beach experience. So, pack your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen, and let’s explore the top ten beaches in Africa for 2024.
Top 10 Best Beaches in Africa for 2024
1. Anse Lazio, Seychelles
Anse Lazio in Seychelles is a breathtaking beach that stretches for 12 kilometers of uninterrupted white sand, offering a secluded paradise free from crowds. Its shallow lagoon waters exhibit extraordinary shades of blue, making it a top choice for beachgoers.
Anse Lazio is renowned for its idyllic conditions year-round. In April, for example, the average temperature is around 85°F (29.4°C), with the possibility of reaching up to 86°F (30°C). The sea temperature is also warm, making it suitable for swimming.
The best time to visit Anse Lazio is during March, April, June, July, August, September, October, and November when the weather is good and the sea temperature is suitable for swimming.
2. Le Morne, Mauritius
Le Morne Beach in Mauritius is a stunning destination with a backdrop of dramatic mountains and a coastline that unfurls into remote, beautiful beaches. The southern coastline, in particular, is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
Le Morne, Mauritius, enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. It is a year-round destination for beachgoers, with consistently warm weather suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.
3. Sandwich Harbour, Namibia
Sandwich Harbour, part of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, is a soulful beach where the desert meets the ocean. This remote location is known for its powerful Atlantic waves and stunning dunes, offering a unique beach experience.
Sandwich Harbour experiences cooler temperatures due to its desert location. The hottest month is April, with an average maximum temperature of 79°F (26°C), while the coolest month is August, with an average maximum temperature of 69°F (21°C). The sea temperature is comfortable for swimming from December to May, peaking at 74°F (23°C) in January.
There’s no best time to visit Sandwich Harbour, but it’s essential to plan your visit during low tide to access the lagoon.
4. Pemba, Tanzania
Pemba Beach in Tanzania is a pristine white sandy beach in the Zanzibar Archipelago. It’s a quieter alternative to its more famous counterparts, with traditional Swahili villages and dhow silhouettes against the setting sun.
5. Watamu, Kenya
Watamu Beach is a picturesque corner of Kenya’s coastline, featuring a 7-kilometer stretch of white sand with a backdrop of mangroves, forests, and an unspoiled fishing village. The waters form part of a marine park, offering a glimpse into Kenya’s Indian Ocean shore before the arrival of tourists.
Generally, the Kenyan coast has good weather year-round, with the long rains typically occurring from April to June. As a result, you can visit anytime you like.
6. Shela Beach, Lamu, Kenya
Shela Beach in Lamu, Kenya, is known for its fascinating culture and stunning natural environment. The beaches here are exceptional, with Shela Beach standing out for its beauty and serenity.
The best time to visit Shela Beach is similar to Watamu, with pleasant weather most of the year and a rainy season from April to June.
7. Wild Coast, South Africa
The Wild Coast in South Africa is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa. With cliffs rising from the sea and rolling green hills, many of these beaches remain deserted, offering a peaceful escape.
The Wild Coast offers a mild climate throughout the year. In January, the average temperature is around 76°F (24.4°C), with the possibility of reaching up to 79°F (26°C). The sea temperature is also inviting, averaging around 80°F (26.7°C)
The best time to visit the Wild Coast is throughout the year, with the warmest months being January, February, March, April, and December. However, it’s worth noting that the rainiest months are January, February, October, November, and December.
8. Anakao, Madagascar
Anakao in Madagascar is surrounded by magnificent beaches, with marine life that includes dolphins and whales from July to November. It’s also close to Maputo National Park, which is home to elephants, buffalos, and various antelopes.
Anakao has a tropical climate with temperatures typically ranging from 62°F (16.7°C) to 89°F (31.7°C) throughout the year. It rarely goes below 58°F (14.4°C) or above 93°F (33.9°C).
The best time to visit Anakao for good weather is between September and November when the weather is fine and warm, and the jacarandas are in bloom
9. Santa Monica Beach, Cape Verde
Santa Monica Beach on the island of Boa Vista is considered the most beautiful beach in Cape Verde. It boasts almost endless white sand and wild Atlantic waves, perfect for experienced windsurfers and kite surfers.
The warmest months at Santa Monica Beach are August, September, and October, with average temperatures reaching up to 31°C. The sea temperature during these months is also warm, with September having an average sea temperature of 27°C.
10. Lake Tanganyika, Tanzania
Lake Tanganyika’s beaches in Tanzania offer a unique inland beach experience. After spending a day with chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains or Gombe National Parks, you can relax on a near-deserted beach backed by forest and stunning green mountains.
Lake Tanganyika’s climate is influenced by its equatorial location, resulting in strong solar radiation and consistent high temperatures. The surrounding high mountains create a rain shadow effect, leading to lower rainfall levels along the lake’s shores compared to the surrounding highlands. Despite this, the lake’s water temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), contributing to the lake’s high water quality and clear, transparent waters.
During the dry season, June to October is generally a good time to visit Tanzania for beach activities.
These top ten beaches in Africa for 2024 promise a diverse range of experiences, from serene relaxation to adventurous water sports. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Africa’s beaches are sure to leave a lasting impression.