Beach (& Safari) Holidays

For many of us, the notion of the classic “week on the beach” is hardwired into our idea of a proper holiday.  It is hard to feel we’ve had a break unless we’ve bleached our hair with saltwater, and anointed at least one paperback with a mix of sand and sun block.

But what makes the right beach for you? Crashing breakers and trendy bars? Or a quiet lagoon where the loudest sound is your own splash? Africa delivers all of this across its coastlines and islands. A quick chat with us helps sift the choices so that you land on the beach destination that truly matches your style.

Which beach destination we recommend alongside your safari depends on a few practical ingredients:

• Time of year – Southern Africa has distinct seasons. Beaches that dazzle in February may feel bracing in August.
• Style of resort – Do you picture a chic five-star hotel or a barefoot, laid-back lodge ambience?
• Activity level – Are you dreaming of every water sport under the sun, or are a good beach, a snorkelling mask and the occasional sunset cruise all you need?
• Accessibility – Do you want to fly or transfer by road straight from your safari to the beach, or is an overnight en route acceptable?
• Deep pockets – Some tropical islands are both remote and pricey. So deep pockets are handy. Other options offer superb value without compromising the experience. We’ll guide you through the sweet spots.

Good destinations for Safari & Beach holidays

• South Africa with Mozambique with direct flights to Benguerra or the other islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago
• Botswana or South Africa with Mauritius  – this will necessitate an overnight en route.
• Combine Zambia with Malawi (or Malawi alone) for lake beaches with island charm.
• Tanzania + Zanzibar, perfect for palm-fringed beaches after a northern safari. See Zanzibar Honeymoons for more on this
• Kenya with its Coast or the Seychelles for a classic East African blend.

Or simply browse a few of our favourite beach hotels below:  from family-friendly resorts to quiet, romantic retreats, from remote island hideaways to easily accessible beach gems.

Safari & Beach Holidays in South Africa - special considerations

The beach experience in South Africa shifts dramatically by region and season. A holiday in July is an entirely different proposition from one in February. The coastline ranges from warm-water family beaches along the Garden Route and Dolphin Coast to wild, empty shores where civilisation feels pleasantly distant. Let’s talk through the timing and your preferences, and we’ll guide you to the best match.

Africa’s Beaches: From Wild Coastlines to Island Calm

Check out some of our beach sub-pages:

South Africa Beaches

From surf breaks and coastal towns to remote wild shores, South Africa offers extraordinary variety — all easily paired with safari.

Romantic Beach Retreats

Intimate hideaways on Africa’s shores offer natural beauty, privacy and a blissfully unhurried sense of togetherness.

Family Beach Holidays

Africa’s family-friendly beaches combine warm seas, calm lagoons and space to roam with activities for all ages.

Far from the Madding Crowd

Find Africa’s quietest beaches, where remote islands and untouched coastlines offer true escape and almost endless sand.

Indian Ocean Beaches

Seychelles, Mauritius, Mozambique and Madagascar deliver the quintessential Indian Ocean experience: warm water, coral reefs and postcard-perfect sands.

Beach & Dive Spots

Discover Africa’s most rewarding marine reserves with colourful reef fish, gentle lagoons and deep channels made for keen divers.

Ready to plan a safari-and-beach holiday that feels effortlessly right? Let’s start the conversation…