Indian Ocean Beaches

The Indian Ocean islands offer a rare blend of soft-sand serenity and joyful possibility. Bliss for snorkellers, swimmers, divers, watersport junkies, and even those who prefer the gentle discipline of a well-positioned sun lounger.

Below is a sense of what each Indian Ocean island brings to the party, so you can see why different people are drawn to different shores.

Here we focus on the Seychelles, Mauritius, Mozambique & Madagascar. But you can also check out Zanzibar beach resorts and Kenya’s coast as well.

Why we love it

• A quartet of island styles: From Seychelles’ sculpted granite coves to Mauritius’ activity-friendly resorts, each destination offers its own unique take on paradise.
• Unmatched marine life: Superb snorkelling, world-class diving, calm lagoons and vivid reefs for all levels of experience.
• Easy safari combinations: Several islands pair seamlessly with Southern or East African safaris for the perfect “bush and beach” mix.
• A climate for everyone: Warm seas year-round, with options for those who prefer full-on tropical humidity or gentler sun-drenched days.

The Seychelles

If your idea of paradise begins with a truly beautiful beach, you’re in good company. Praslin has long been linked as the original Garden of Eden, and the sculpted granite beaches of La Digue feature regularly in the “world’s best beaches” lists beloved by glossy magazines.

With 115 islands scattered across luminous water, the Seychelles has more beaches than most countries have towns - and a remarkable knack for natural beauty. Here, romance mingles with island wilderness; lush rainforest meets reef; and even a short stroll can lead to a photogenic  mountain top viewpoint.

Mozambique islands

In the south, the Bazaruto Archipelago offers postcard-worthy beaches and the enticing option of flying directly from Kruger Park to Vilanculos for an easy safari-and-sea combination. Add on superb diving and sunsets to die for, and what’s not to love.

Travel north and the mood shifts to castaway romance: the remote Quirimbas Archipelago idyllic tropical islands with powdery coral shores.

Madagascar

Madagascar isn’t everyone’s first thought for an Indian Ocean beach holiday, and that’s precisely why it appeals to the adventurous. Its beaches are powder-soft and gloriously empty, plus the diving is world-class, though travel logistics require a little patience.

Divers come for somewhere genuinely different: reefs rich in colour, character and life. Others stay for Madagascar’s cultural depth, forested reserves and unique wildlife - notably its charismatic lemurs for a unique take on bush and beach.

This other-worldly island rewards those who crave contrast with their coastline.

Mauritius

Mauritius is ideal for those who love their beach life with a dose of action. Kite-surfing, water-skiing, kayaking and deep-sea fishing are all part of the island’s rhythm. Families are exceptionally well catered for too, with hotels offering kids’ clubs, babysitters, and space for everyone to grab some time for themselves.

Choosing which side of the island is the real challenge: each coastline has its own mood and microclimate. And with daily flights just four hours from South Africa, it pairs effortlessly with a Southern Africa safari.

Best time of year for an Indian Ocean beach holiday?

Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar are all broadly year-round destinations in terms of warmth and water temperature. However, sun-seekers should note that the cyclone season  runs from mid-January to mid-March - a window best avoided for serious beach time.

The Seychelles, sitting further north, experiences fewer cyclones and maintains wonderfully even tropical temperatures throughout the year.

Further south, seasonality becomes more pronounced. Southern Mozambique can sizzle at 38°C in summer, while winter days (June–July) are pleasantly warm at 24–26°C, with cooler nights. The Bazaruto archipelago offers slightly warmer winters (25–27°C) but the sea temperatures remain very pleasant at around 23–24°C.

Tell us the island that’s calling your name, or ask us to match you with the one that fits your travel style perfectly.

Back to main Safari & Beach pages

Other Indian Ocean Beach Articles

• Seychelles versus Mauritius
• Mozambique Ocean Experience at White Pearl
• Best beaches in Mauritius
• Zanzibar Trip Report