Incredible Beaches in Mozambique: A Guide to the Best Spots

Dreamy turquoise-colored water, gold & white-sandy beaches and palm coves lining the shores – Mozambique is a true beach lovers paradise! With it’s Portuguese and Latin-relaxed atmosphere, buzzing street life and tropical climate, it makes one of the unique countries to visit in Southern Africa.

If you’re looking for a beach destination in Southern Africa and love an exotic atmosphere – Mozambique is a great choice! In this guide, I’m covering the best beach destinations in the Inhambane region of Mozambique – with the best beach resorts, fun experiences to do, and beautiful places to see.

Essential Things to Know For Traveling to Mozambique

Best Time to Visit Mozambique

You’re lucky, Mozambique is a destination you can visit all year round! However, May to October is considered the dry season and probably the best one if you’re after a beach holiday.

Around July and August, you can expect more tourists as it coincides with the holiday season in Europe & Southern Africa. The country’s rainy season is from November to April and is perfect for a surf holiday. Prices tend to be lower, the air is a bit more humid and between January to March are changes of cyclones hitting.

Mozambique Visa Requirements

Mozambique has now introduced a new visa exemption program for passport holders from Canada, China, Denmark, Germany, France, Netherlands, the UK, the United States (and more) for a stay of up to 30 days. You will only pay a processing fee of MZN 650 (~ 10 US).

Currency in Mozambique

The local currency is the Mozambican Metical (MZN). I advise carrying some cash in Meticals which you can easily get at the airport or in Maputo city. USD and sometimes ZAR are accepted in tourist areas. In these moments I recommend getting a Wise Card with which you can withdraw money from ATMs without any hidden fees!

Internet & Wi-Fi in Mozambique

I found that many restaurants, cafes, and of course hotels have good (and free) internet. Since mobile data is affordable, I recommend getting a SIM card from providers such as Movitel or Vodacom. If you want to be connected right from the start and avoid taking your passport through the streets, consider getting an eSIM Card!

Top Beaches in Mozambique and Things to Do

Tofo Beach

The laidback surfer town of Tofo in the Inhambane province was my first beach destination in Mozambique. It caught my eye because it caters to backpackers and luxury travellers alike due to various hotel options. It also makes the ideal place to unwind if you need a place to recover on your way up north.

Why Tofo Beach Is Famous

The curved Tofo Beach with its clean and warm waters is ideal for surfers to catch a wave. I wouldn’t say it’s the best for a casual swim since the waves are quite consistent but the color is fabulous and the views themselves are fabulous.

Things to Do at Tofo Beach

Go Scuba Diving in Tofo

Tofo is also the place to go if you’re a surfer, keen to scuba dive (or wanting to learn to dive) but also for kitesurfers. There are a range of diving schools taking you out to the nearby coral reefs and on ocean safaris.

Stroll The Tofo Local Market

The town is ideal (and safe) to walk around by night and day and everything is close by. You’ll find a charming local market in the center where the mamas are selling all sorts of produce. Think locally grown veggies, fruits, homemade Peri Peri sauce, tasty coconut buns and bread in Portuguese style.

Pansy & Pig Island

If you’re a beach and island lover, this one is for you Close to Tofo you can find an Pansy & Pig Island, a charming island where you can learn more about the culture of Mozambique. Start the trip with a dhow ride to Pansy Island for a bit of snorkeling. For lunchtime, you’ll arrive at Pig Island and dig into some tasty Mozambican cuisine. Here, you’ll meet the chief of the island to visit the community and dive deeper into the local traditions. I recommend reserving a spot on this outdoorsy Pansy Island & Pig Island Boat Day Trip to explore nature, culture and ocean wildlife!

Whale Watching Tofo

Tofo is also one of the top spots to go whale watching in between June and September. This is the time when the Humpback whales with their calves are passing by. Besides those giants, you can often spot Whale Sharks, dolphins, manta rays and many bigger fish.

Day Trip to Inhambane City

If you’re staying in Tofo you should definitely squeeze in a short trip to Inhambane, the capital of the province. Also known as Land of Good People, the city features a range of colonial sights, including Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the Old Cathedral, Hero Square and even a few stunning mosques.

How to get from Maputo to Tofo Beach

Relatively easy to get from Maputo to Tofo and you have a few choices. I used the Etrago Bus service from their main office in Maputo, although it also stopped in Junta Bus Terminal. It’s a solid 10-hour bus ride, with a few stops. Sometimes it’s the field for a toilet break (yes) and sometimes it’s the gas station with an adjacent restaurant.

The bus ride costs MZN 700 and will get into Inhambane around 3-4 PM. From there, you need to take one of the local Chapas (MZN 25 + 50 for luggage) or get a private taxi (MZN ~400) to Tofo. This trip can take between 20-45 minutes depending which one you choose to take.

Another option is Fatima’s Shuttle which picks you up from your accommodation and drops you off in Tofo itself. The drive time is the same and other people left comments saying the ‘shuttle’ will stop in Maputo’s Junta Bus Terminal to wait for other passengers to join, just like a regular bus. In my eyes, it’s a bit of a scam and totally overpriced. Returning from Tofo to Maputo was the only option I had, so I only did this leg of the trip.

Best Places to Eat IN Tofo

Make sure to visit Rio’s Cafe + Bakery for the best cinnamon buns, coffee and healthy sandwiches! For local food try Bitonga Restaurant and Banca Cadir right opposite. Ocean n’ Friends is good to work with free WiFi and plugs and has a nice terrace. I also enjoyed going for coffee to Liquid Dive Adventures. For lovely sunset drinks head to Casa na Praia Tofo – it’s always buzzing and perfect to end the day!

Best Accommodation Mozambique – Tofo

Baia Sonambula is your best bet if you’re looking for a stylish and eco-friendly boutique hotel. Their individually designed rooms, unique swimming pool and attention to detail are what stood out to me. All of the breakfast items are homemade and healthy! Think of a range of 8 marmalades, daily changing goodies, freshly pressed juice and daily baked cakes oe muffins for afternoon tea.

If you want more privacy, you can stay in their private luxury villa Duna Sonambula. Here you even have your kitchen, outdoor swimming pool and the whole villa to yourself!

Lehani Backpackers is a new backpacker hostel that feels more like a home away from home. With its gorgeous outdoor terrace and beach views, its a wonderful place to unwind. The kitchen is spacious and open, you’re only minutes away from town and the staff is the best!

Book The Top Beach Accommodation Mozambique – Tofo

Morrumbene Beach

Morrumbene Beach is a lesser-known Mozambique beach in the Massinga and Morrumbene area. Considerably more wild and rough, but stunning. It’s a seemingly endless stretch of sand reaching from Morrumbene Beach Resort all the way up to Pomene National Park.

Things to Do at Morrumbene Beach

Go here early to see the fishermen pulling in their nets or how they return from the sea.

Village Walk

I suggest taking a guide from Travessia Lodge to walk through the village. He knows all about the local culture, traditions, and way of life. The first thing we did was visit the lady who brews her own coconut beer. Although hesitant, I tried the milky drink and found it to be similar to coconut kefir.

We continued the walk to the local preschool, which Travessia Lodge has sponsored, and greeted a few of the kids. There were also a few little shops selling cookies and basic necessities, a simple barber shop, and always lots of village life happening.

Best Beach Accommodation Mozambique – Morrumbene Beach

Travessia Lodge is a gem of an eco-lodge that lies about 6km from the main road, perched between the palm groves and dunes. Driving towards it really made me think – Mozambique is the land of the palm trees! Each of the five individually designed villas has a fabulous view of the coastal forest, a hammock to unwind and an open-plan bathroom.

The food is healthy and sourced from the nearby village – a big plus! There’s also a fantastic pool with view of the ocean, connected to a unique bridge that leads to the beach. I loved how you had towels and beach umbrellas to take with you to the beach. Every other night you will have a sundowner get-together by the fire, right underneath the beautiful palm grove.

Book The Top Accommodation Mozambique – Morrumbene

Vilankulos

The vibrant coastal town of Vilankulos is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and home to one of the best beaches in Mozambique. It’s truly the best spot for all beach lovers, scuba divers and adventurers – with a unique local vibe to it.

Vilankulos Beach (South)

Stroll along the white-sandy beach and you find local life happening on every corner. Each afternoon groups of women gather on the beach, waiting for the fishermen. Once the boats come close you can see them exchanging the fish, negotiating and distributing it. On the weekends, men meticulously fix the fishing nets and repair their colorful boats during low tide.

Vilankulos Beach (North)

The northern Vilankulos Beach area feels more secluded and upscale, with calm, turquoise waters and boutique lodges nearby. It’s quieter when it comes to local life, but you’ll find more of the beach boys trying to sell boat trips. Beach-wise, it’s stunning, ideal for relaxing, and offers a slightly more polished beach experience compared to Vilankulos Beach on the southern side.

Things to Do at Vilankulos Beach

Vilankulos city itself is quite spread out so you’d get around with a tuk tuk or scooter. It’s totally fine to walk around the city during the day. It’s actually quite a cultural experience it itself as you see the traditional houses. While it’s generally a safe city, people still warned me to not walk around alone at night – even at 8 PM.

Horse Riding

Explore the beaches and surrounding landscapes on horseback. Many of the tours take place on the beach itself but others include more of an inland experience where you can really gallop through the area.

Village Visits

Take a tour with a Mozambican guide from the area to a local village to learn about Mozambican culture, traditions, farming and daily life. It’s a great way to connect with the community and gain insight into the local way of living.

Dhow Safaris

Since Mozambique is one of the places where dhow has been around for decades, this is a top experience to do! Sail on a traditional dhow to the nearby Bazaruto Archipelago and into the sunset. Enjoy snorkeling, island hopping, or simply soaking in the beauty of the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Ideally you’d visit the closest island like Magaruque by dhow boat, just because of the time it takes to get there.

Best Accommodation Mozambique – Vilankulos

Casa Babi is a charming eco-conscious boutique guesthouse located on the quieter local beach of Vilankulos. Everything from the amazing view from my room, to the sumptuous breakfast spread with homemade Nutella, to the fantastic team and all the eco-friendly efforts has made this stay one of my favorites. Casa Babi has their own vegetable garden, uses solar power and supports the local community by employing and training only from the area. It felt like being at home and it’s a place I can’t recommend enough when you visit the Vilankulos and the Bazaruto Archipelago.

Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel is a luxury, eco-friendly escape with ocean-facing suites, a wellness center, and a focus on local empowerment. Guests can enjoy yoga, dhow safaris, horseback riding, and fine dining with locally sourced ingredients. Here you should check out Wild Africa Mozambique for their fantastic Bazaruto Archipelago Boat Trips (one I did have the chance to experience myself!)

Book The Best Beach Resort + Accommodation Mozambique – Vilankulos

The Bazaruto Archipelago – Best Beaches Mozambique

The Bazaruto Archipelago is made up of five islands, a true marine sanctuary. Here you can spot over 2000 fish species, 3 types of turtles, whales and the endangered dugong!

Bazaruto Island Beach

The largest island in the archipelago, Bazaruto is famous for its towering sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. There are over 3000 people living on the island and a few freshwater crocodiles.

This curved dune that arises from the powdery beach is one of Africa’s most unique sights! Once on top, you’ll be surprised by a massive oasis right in the middle of the island, an unreal place. Having a day out on the beach is one of the highlights of any Mozambique trip – it’s true paradise!

Best Things to Do on Bazaruto Island

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Right between Bazaruto and Benguerra Island lives Two Mile Reef, one of the best snorkeling and diving spots. This is the most famous dive site in the archipelago, known for its vibrant coral reef, stunning underwater visibility, and abundant marine life. Expect to see tropical fish, moray eels, turtles, reef sharks, and possibly manta rays.

If you’re ready for the ultimate beach adventure, I recommend booking this fun Bazaruto & Benguerra Island Boat Trip. Explore the pristine beaches on Bazaruto and Benguerra Island, snorkel around the reefs, clim the iconic dune and visit a local village to experience the culture!

Best Beach Resorts Mozambique on Bazaruto Island

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort
This stunning luxury escape offers beachfront villas, world-class spa treatments, and a variety of activities, such as diving with manta rays and dhow sailing. It is ideal for couples or families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Benguerra Island

Benguerra Island is one of the lesser-known destinations in Mozambique but nevertheless one of the most beautiful spots! The beach in Benguerra Island is fabulous, powdery white like its neighbor, and ideal for a relaxing day (or more). The island is also famous for its rich marine biodiversity and luxury resorts, so mostly caters to luxury travelers and day trip visitors.

Best Things to Do on Benguerra Island

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Benguerra Island offers a mix of shallow and deep dive sites with excellent coral gardens and the possibility of encountering dugongs. It’s great for all skill levels!

Beach Seafood Lunch

When you go on a full-day boat trip, you’ll enjoy a fantastic seafood lunch on Benguerra Island. After snorkeling Two Mile Reef and some relaxing time on the beach, the day tours include one of the best experiences – fresh seafood lunches. Think calamari, octopus and fresh fish, freshly grilled and accompanied with all the rice, veggies and local specialties.

I recommend booking this full-day Bazaruto & Benguerra Island Boat Trip to explore the Archipelago.

Best Beach Resorts Mozambique on Benguerra Island

Azura Benguerra
A luxury eco-retreat offering stunning beachfront villas, personalized butler service, and world-class diving. Perfect for those seeking an intimate, high-end escape with a focus on sustainability.

andBeyond Benguerra Island Lodge
Blends barefoot luxury with a relaxed island vibe. Known for its chic cabanas, exceptional seafood, and activities like dhow cruises and snorkeling in pristine waters.

Kisawa Sanctuary
An ultra-luxury option with a focus on privacy and bespoke experiences. It boasts expansive villas, private chefs, and a strong emphasis on conservation and wellness.

Magaruque Island

Smaller and quieter, Magaruque Island is ideal for day trips and picnics. It also features a big flamingo colony that you can spot during low tide while walking around the island.

Exploring the island by foot has been a fantastic way to see what it’s all about – no people, but a lot of natural beauty. It’s surrounded by reefs and perfect for water-based activities such as snorkeling.

The beach on Magaruque changes from golden to white depending on the side of the island. The boat trips stop on the western side that is beautifully white and soft, perfect for a seafood lunch & unwinding.

I recommend checking out Bazaruto Incoming Agency and their trip schedule to visit this island and its beaches. The boat and team was great, preparing the best seafood lunch and all the equipment for a beautiful beach day on my Mozambique trip!

Santa Carolina (Paradise Island)

Arguably the island that’s furthest away. Santa Carolina is known for its old ruins (a former luxury hotel). The beach on Santa Carolina is a beautiful white-sandy gem with pristine water, and a highlight of Mozambique! It also offers incredible snorkeling opportunities with turtles!

I hope this Mozambique Beach Travel Guide gives you the inspo to visit this amazing country. It’s ideal to combine with South Africa and Eswatini and really one of the most unique ones in all of Southern Africa.

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