Africa is an amazing continent with thousands of breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Some of these are more beautiful than others and some are more welcoming to backpackers. From pristine white sand beaches to rugged rocky stretches of shore, there are beaches for every taste and interest. The shorelines of Africa are some of the most amazing places in the world. Check out the list of 10 best beaches for backpackers and pick the most wonderful one.
1. Anse Soleil, Seychelles
Situated near Mahé, Anse Soleil is a romantic beach with clear blue waters that invite visitors to dive in. It is a quiet place where backpackers can relax and enjoy the sun. A small café on the beach is the perfect place to get some food and drink. It’s a great budget-friendly beach for swimming and snorkeling as well as yoga and meditation.
2. Diani Beach, Kenya
20 kilometers of beautiful, white sand make Diani Beach one of the best options for travelers in Kenya. There is a coral reef just off the beach which prevents seaweed from washing up on the sand. The area is known for kite surfing and lessons are available at the beach. There are some budget-friendly hotels and cheap yet delicious food.
3. Ifaty, Madagascar
For backpackers seeking a quiet, hidden gem, Ifaty is a good destination. Located on the southwest side of Madagascar, the beach is part of a fishing village. The area is replete with coral reefs. Snorkeling and whale spotting are two favorite activities in Ifaty. Once you visit this place, it will become your favorite forever, I promise!
4. Coffee Bay, South Africa
Coffee Bay is found on the Wild Coast of South Africa and lives up to its name. The beach is at the base of cliffs that drop sharply to the Indian Ocean, leaving a little space to enjoy when the tide is out. The water here is active and not suitable for swimming, but it is one of the more beautiful beaches in the area. The nearby Hole in the Wall is an interesting rock formation that visitors should check out.
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5. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Skeleton Coast has earned its name. Countless ships have run aground when fog blocks views of the shallow, rocky waters off the shore. The beach here is rugged and wild looking, with plenty of rocks, but it is also incredibly beautiful. If you are eager to see crumbling shipwrecks and whale bones, the Skeleton Coast is right for you.
6. Tofo Beach, Mozambique
Tofo Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for 8 kilometers. Fishing, diving and sunbathing are favorite activities on the beach. It’s also known for its perfect reefs for fishing and snorkeling. The beach is made up of grey sand, not white, but the beach is extensive and allows for plenty of solitude.
7. Belle Mare, Mauritius
The water at Belle Mare is shallow and tranquil, making it ideal for families or those who prefer quiet water. The beach has an incredible sunrise view and is secluded enough that travelers will find plenty of privacy. You can easily find some cheap accommodation and local food won’t wreck your budget too.
8. Camps Bay, South Africa
Camps Bay is just outside of Cape Town and is a very safe beach for the area. The Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming in. There are restaurants lining the beach and plenty of water sports to try out. Backpackers can find any accommodation to suit all budgets. Consider visiting Camp Bay this summer, you won’t be disappointed!
9. Chitimba, Malawi
For the more adventurous backpackers, Chitimba is a lake beach well off the beaten path. There is very little in the area, but the beach is on the edge of one of the largest lakes on the continent and you will be immersed in the local culture. The campsite is the perfect place to stay during your trip.
10. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt
Egypt is an ideal destination for backpackers. The Red Sea offers warm water for swimming and plenty of reefs for snorkelers. The area has plenty of shade and is popular with locals and tourists alike. It is also a good place for scuba diving and features many rare tropical fish and undersea plants.
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Anyone planning on backpacking through Africa should add at least one of these amazing beaches to their itinerary. A little time by the sea makes it much easier to head into the jungle or desert again. Africa boasts a great number of budget-friendly backpacking destinations. It’s easy and cheap to travel around, and the local people are so friendly that you will want to visit this continent over and over again. Have you ever backpacked in Africa? What’s your favorite destination?
