Life’s a Beach on Africa’s Coastline

Most visitors come to Africa for prime game-viewing incredible Wildlife Reserves. But when you have had your safari fill, the continent’s coastline beckons with the promise of an idyllic beach holiday.  Whilst many opt for a Bush and Island Beach combination, there are plenty of options right on the mainland of our coast to consider.

We explore the breathtaking beach holiday destinations of mainland Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa, where you can relax, unwind, and create unforgettable memories.

Kenya’s coastline along the Indian Ocean is a treasure trove of natural wonders and idyllic beaches. The white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life make it a haven for snorkelling, diving, and water sports enthusiasts.

Mombasa’s lively atmosphere has long attracted beach lovers seeking a classic sun and sea vacation close to all the action. This is where you’ll find the larger beach resorts in Kenya and popular stretches of coastline such as Kilifi Beach. For a more relaxing break, we’d recommend a selection of hand-picked boutique hotels on the quieter Diani Beach, set 30 kilometres (18 miles) south of Mombasa. The scuba diving here is excellent and there are many wreck dives to entice advanced divers. Together with a wide range of accommodations, kids’ entertainment clubs and golf courses make for a seamless beach holiday.

Cardamom House, Kuruwitu Beach, Vipingo – hidden in the gem of Older Kesi Conservancy, the queen of pride. With just 9 rooms, of which 2 are Luxury suites, there is no doubt that your experience of the Mara will be as private and exclusive as it gets.

AfroChic Diani Beach Lodge, Diani Beach – lying south of Mombasa, Kenya, on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Afrochic Diani is the perfect getaway for the discerning traveller who wants to simply ‘flop and drop’ and enjoy the spectacular views of exotic and ancient dhows in full sail.

Alfajiri Villas, Diani Beach – Alfajiri boasts unparalleled privacy and exclusivity on the edge of Diani Beach. Inspired by African design and hospitality, our villas offer you the freedom to explore with intrigue and to indulge your senses.

Mozambique’s coastal region is a well-kept secret that guarantees unspoiled beaches, secluded islands, and a serene ambiance. The archipelago of Bazaruto and Benguerra stands out with its crystalline waters and majestic sand dunes, creating a paradise for enthusiasts of snorkeling and scuba diving. However, on the mainland, there are few options that offer a chance to savour the local cuisine, particularly the delectable seafood dishes that showcase the country’s Portuguese influences.

White Pearl Resort, Ponta Mamoli, Zitundo – This luxury Mozambique beach resort is nestled in a sheltered bay on Mozambique’s Lagoon Coast, poised amongst the dunes on timber stilts, our 22 luxurious suites have been sensitively designed to take advantage of their beautiful natural setting, while protecting the fragile eco-systems beneath them.

Santorini Mozambique, Vilanculous – Nestled above the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay in Vilanculos, Santorinis’ unfurling view of the archipelago islands and curling mainland in the distance is unsurpassable. Santorini Mozambique is like a small Greek village in the heart of a raw African landscape – a magical combination.

South Africa is celebrated for its incredible variety of landscapes, and its coastline exemplifies this diversity. Spanning from the vibrant city of Cape Town to the captivating Wild Coast, the country offers beach destinations that cater to every taste. Nestled against the iconic Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula boasts awe-inspiring beaches like Camps Bay, Clifton and Long Beach, where visitors can bask in the beauty of their surroundings. Along the enchanting Garden Route, one can discover picturesque towns such as Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, where golden beaches seamlessly blend with verdant forests, creating a picturesque setting. For an extraordinary adventure, a visit to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a must. This park has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and presents an opportunity to explore pristine beaches and encounter an array of abundant wildlife.

The Marly Boutique Hotel and Spa offers guests an urban hideaway that celebrates sophisticated design, beachfront living and five-star service. Set the tone of your stay with a sea-facing or mountain-facing suite and experience the essence of the Mother City.

The Plettenberg Hotel, Plettenberg Bay – situated on a rocky headland in Plettenberg Bay, along the famous Garden Route – is the ultimate South African seaside escape. The five-star Small Luxury Hotels of the World property, with its 35 beautifully appointed rooms and two family-style villas, showcases the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, with views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand. Guests may enjoy world-class cuisine courtesy of The Restaurant at The Plettenberg, where fresh seafood is the order of the day.

Sala Beach House, Ballito, KwaZulu Natal – a luxurious coastal escape with 5-star service, tranquillity and wellness amongst the palm trees where it feels more like staying with an old friend than it does a hotel with access to a protected tidal pool and swimming beach, explore rocky expanses and secluded coves, or partake in some of the many activities in the area.

Thonga Beach Lodge, KwaZulu Natal – one of South Africa’s most pristine wilderness beach lodge awaits you on the azure shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), situated deep in this wilderness of white beaches, blazing corals and freshwater lakes in KwaZulu-Natal.

It is clear that mainland Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa each offer a distinct beach holiday experience, characterized by their breathtaking landscapes, warm waters, and vibrant cultures. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both, these destinations have it all.

From exploring underwater worlds teeming with marine life to savouring delicious local cuisines and enjoying endless hours of sunshine, a beach holiday in these countries will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable tropical getaway with Timeless Africa Safaris.