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Best East Africa Beaches #3. Ssese Islands, Uganda
The Ssese Islands are a tropical archipelago in Lake Victoria. Remote, but well worth the journey. If a laid-back atmosphere and total relaxation are what you’re after, then Ssese is for you. The beaches are long, and fringed with tropical forests.
The lake is simply glorious (although probably not the place to go if you want to swim…), and – despite the location of the islands – there are some very serviceable facilities for those who like a little luxury!
All in all, these islands are the perfect place to be marooned!
East Africa is home to some of the most stunning and diverse beaches in the world, with its coastline stretching along the Indian Ocean and covering several countries including Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
These beaches are known for their powdery white sand, warm turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and a blend of cultural and historical richness that makes the region a unique coastal destination.
East Africa Beaches in Kenya
In Kenya, the coastline runs for about 500 kilometers from the Somali border in the north to the border with Tanzania in the south.
Diani Beach, located about 30 kilometers south of Mombasa, is perhaps the most famous.
Its long, wide beach is backed by lush vegetation and dotted with resorts, boutique hotels, and guesthouses. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, kitesurfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
To the north, Malindi and Watamu offer a quieter alternative. Watamu, in particular, is famous for its marine park, where visitors can snorkel among coral reefs and encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish. Malindi, with its rich Swahili culture and Italian influence, also draws visitors looking for a more laid-back atmosphere.
Beaches in East Africa, Tanzania
Further down the coast in Tanzania, the beaches are equally—if not more—remarkable. Zanzibar, an archipelago off the Tanzanian mainland, is the crown jewel.
The main island, Unguja, is where most of the action happens.
Nungwi and Kendwa in the north are known for their postcard-perfect beaches with calm, clear waters and minimal tidal effects, making them perfect for swimming at any time of day.
On the eastern side of the island, beaches like Paje and Jambiani cater to a younger crowd and kitesurfing enthusiasts, while still maintaining a relatively relaxed pace of life.
Zanzibar is more than just a beach destination—it’s also steeped in history. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflects a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
It’s worth setting aside a day or two to explore its narrow alleys, historic buildings, spice markets, and centuries-old mosques.
Mainland Tanzania also has less-commercialized beach destinations such as Pangani and Saadani. Pangani, once a trading post in the 19th century, offers unspoiled beaches and a glimpse into the region’s Swahili and colonial past. Saadani is particularly unique because it combines a wildlife safari experience with a beach holiday—Saadani National Park is the only place in East Africa where the beach meets the bush.
Best Beaches in East Africa, Mozambique
Mozambique, though often less associated with East Africa, boasts over 2,500 kilometers of Indian Ocean coastline and some of the most pristine beaches in the region. The Bazaruto Archipelago and Quirimbas Archipelago are particularly renowned for their marine biodiversity and luxury eco-lodges.
These islands offer a more exclusive, off-the-beaten-path experience and are excellent for diving, fishing, and snorkeling.
Photo credits: All in Africa Safaris