The Best Beaches in Madagascar
How can you ignore a land that is blessed with both amazing wildlife and beaches? Madagascar beaches offer a paradise unlike any other. In my previous blogs, I have written about Madagascar’s animals, birds, bugs, etc, but in this one, I am going to mention how astonished I was to explore the Madagascar beaches.
In this guide, I have mentioned 15 amazing beaches in Madagascar, Africa, perfect for anyone seeking a tropical escape.
Before I begin, don’t forget to check out the 10 Must-See attractions when you visit Madagascar.
Ile Sainte-Marie (Nosy Bohara)
Ile Sainte-Marie, commonly known as Nosy Bohara, is a tropical paradise that appeals to both relaxation seekers and adventurers. It’s a serene island off the northeastern coast of Madagascan and is considered one of the best beaches of Madagascar.
How to Go There
Nosy Boraha boasts its own airport, making it easily accessible from Antananarivo, the capital city. Several daily flights connect the two destinations, offering stunning aerial views en route. Ferry services are also available from Soanierana Ivongo on Madagascar’s mainland, providing a more budget-friendly option.
Activities To Do
The island’s calm, clear waters make it a perfect location for snorkeling, diving, and whale-watching, particularly from July to September, when humpback whales pass by on their migration.
Also, you can enjoy sunbathing on the pristine white sand beaches of Nosy Anime, known for its turquoise waters, or discover the secluded coves of Ile aux Nattes, a protected marine reserve.
Nosy Be
Nosy Be, which translates to “big island” in Malagasy, is a gem off Madagascar’s northwest coast. This volcanic island attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches, diverse fauna, and rich cultural heritage.
How to Go There
Travelers can reach Nosy Be via international flights from Europe or other African countries that land directly at Fascene Airport on the island. Alternatively, domestic flights from Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, to Nosy Be are frequent, offering a quick connection to this island paradise. For those seeking a more scenic route, there are also boat services from the mainland that provide a leisurely and picturesque approach to the island.
Activities To Do
I suggest you explore the Lokobe Nature Special Reserve. It’s a haven for lemurs, chameleons and a vibrant rainforest. You can also hike to the summit of Mont Lokobe for panoramic views.
Don’t miss Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve, a snorkeler’s paradise teeming with colorful coral reefs and marine life. Also, this island has many Madagascar beach resorts where you can relax and enjoy the view.
Nosy Mitsio
Nosy Mitsio is a beautiful island located about 70 kilometers northeast from the island of Nosy Be, off Madagascar’s northwest coast. This group of small islands is part of a lesser-known natural area that provides tranquillity and magnificent natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking isolation and unspoiled landscapes.
How to Go There
Due to its remoteness, Nosy Mitsio isn’t easily accessible. Boats are your best bet, departing from Nosy Be or Ankarena.
Activities To Do
Involve yourself in village culture. Experience local culture, see how people fish the old-fashioned way, or just unwind on gorgeous beaches.
Andilana beach
Andilana Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque destinations on Nosy Be, Madagascar’s largest and most famous island. Located on the northern tip of the island, Andilana offers some of the most beautiful stretches of sand and clear waters in the region, making it a top choice for both relaxation and activities.
How to Go There
Getting to Andilana Beach involves first traveling to Nosy Be, which is accessible by plane from Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, or directly from international destinations. Once on Nosy Be, Andilana Beach is easily reachable by car or taxi from almost anywhere on the island, as it is one of the well-known beaches of Madagascar Africa.
Activities To Do
The beach is lined with resorts, lodges, hotels and restaurants, where visitors can relax with a cocktail and enjoy fresh seafood while watching spectacular sunsets. For a more experience, there are local operators offering day trips around Nosy Be or to nearby smaller islands, which allow for further exploration of the area’s natural beauty and cultural offerings.
Tsarabanjina, Madagascar Beach
Tucked away in Madagascar’s northwest, Tsarabanjina is a tiny gem in the Indian Ocean. It sits within the Mitsio archipelago, neighboring Nosy Be and Nosy Mitsio. Reaching this secluded paradise requires a journey.
How to Go There
First, fly into Nosy Be Airport, roughly a 1.5-hour flight from Madagascar’s capital. From there, a boat trip awaits, whisking you to Tsarabanjina in about an hour.
Activities To Do
Tsarabanjina is an ideal place for bird watching, where many species can be observed in their natural habitat. The quiet and picturesque setting of the island makes it an excellent spot for yoga or wellness retreats, where travelers can truly unwind and reconnect with nature.
Nosy Komba
Nosy Komba, nicknamed “Lemur Island,” is one of the best Madagascar beaches located in Madagascar’s northwest coast. This small island of Madagascar, just southeast of Madagascar Nosy Be, is a popular tourist destination.
How to Go There
Nosy Komba is easily accessible by boat. A quick 15-minute ride from Nosy Be’s main town, Hell-Ville, will get you there. You can also reach Nosy Komba from Ankify on the mainland by motorboat in about 20 minutes.
Activities To Do
Nosy Komba’s main attraction is its lemurs. These playful primates roam freely. It’s the perfect place for exploring protected reserves where you can observe different lemur species, like the Black Lemur and White Ruffed Lemur, in their natural habitat.
Ifaty
Ifaty, a laid-back beach destination in Madagascar, lies on the southwest of Madagascar coast, about 25 kilometers north of Toliara (Tulear). It draws visitors with a mix of rocky pine forests and sandy beaches.
How to Go There
Situated about 23 kilometers north of Toliara (Tuléar), Ifaty is easily reachable via a combination of a flight to Toliara followed by a brief road journey, typically in a local taxi brousse or a 4×4 vehicle due to the sandy tracks.
Activities To Do
From July to August, you can witness a majestic spectacle – migrating whales passing by the coast. Boat tours offer a chance to witness these giants of the ocean.
Beyond the beach, the spiny forest of Ifaty is a must-visit, especially for eco-tourists and bird watchers. This unique habitat is home to some of Madagascar’s most fascinating wildlife, including endemic bird species and the iconic baobab trees.
Nosy Iranja
Nosy Iranja, often referred to as the “Turtle Island,” is a stunningly beautiful pair of two islands connected by a 1.2 kilometer sandy walkway. Nestled about 50 kilometers south of Nosy Be, off the northwest coast of Madagascar.
How to Go There
This idyllic destination can be reached by boat from Nosy Be, with the journey across the turquoise waters taking approximately an hour and a half, providing visitors with scenic views and possibly the chance to spot dolphins along the way.
Activities To Do
It’s the best place for turtle lovers. The island is famed for its role as a breeding site for hawksbill and green turtles, and visitors might have the unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures laying eggs or hatchlings making their way to the ocean, especially during the nesting season.
Also, you should go see the lighthouse created by Gustave Eiffel, the same person who designed the Eiffel Tower.
île Aux Nattes
Île Aux Nattes, also known as Nosy Nato, is one of the best beaches in Madagascar, Africa. It is a small island paradise nestled south of Île Sainte-Marie, off Madagascar’s east coast.
How to Go There
A short canoe ride across a narrow channel separates Île Aux Nattes from its larger neighbor. This quick and scenic journey connects you to a world of relaxation and natural beauty
Activities To Do
The island’s name, which means “Weaving Isle,” refers to its long history of producing beautiful raffia and pandanus palm goods. Get a personal look at the weaving process and purchase one-of-a-kind decorative items crafted with local knowledge.
Anjajavy
Anjajavy is a private, isolated beach on Madagascar’s northwest coast that is bounded by the Mozambique Channel. The island is known for its luxury resorts, which also organize sunset cruises where guests can see stunning sunsets while enjoying the ocean wind.
The beach is located on the outskirts of the National Park that bears its name, and there is a lodge where you may stay with a breathtaking infinity pool that you will not soon forget.
How to Go There
Anjajavy is most accessible by air. Scheduled flights from major Malagasy cities land directly at the lodge’s private airstrip. Alternatively, private charters can be arranged from Nosy Be or Majunga.
Activities To Do
Anjajavy offers a treasure trove of natural wonders. Hike through the spiny forests, spotting chameleons and tortoises. Explore the iconic “tsingy” limestone formations, a photographer’s paradise. Kayak through turquoise waters, keeping an eye out for dolphins or whales.
Mahavelona
Mahavelona, also known by its former French name Foulpointe, is a charming coastal town on Madagascar’s east coast. Situated roughly 50 kilometers north of Tamatave (Toamasina), it offers a relaxing beach experience for locals and a glimpse into Malagasy life.
How to Go There
The town is easily accessible by road from Toamasina, making it a favorite weekend getaway for locals and a delightful stop for travelers exploring the Madagascar beach.
Activities To Do
It’s the perfect place for shopping! Dive into Malagasy culture by exploring the town’s markets. Sample fresh seafood dishes, a specialty of the region. Visit handicraft stalls and pick up unique souvenirs made by local artisans.
Anakao
Anakao, a village paradise, rests on the southwest coast of Madagascar, close to the tip. Known for its laid-back charm and stunning natural beauty, it’s a haven for relaxation and exploration.
How to Go There
Anakao is most easily reached by car or taxi from Tuléar (Toliara), roughly 230 kilometers north. The journey takes about five to six hours, offering scenic glimpses of Madagascar’s southern landscapes.
Activities To Do
A short boat trip whisks you away to Nosy Ve- Anakao National Park, a tiny island sanctuary known for its red-tailed lemur colonies. Explore the island, observe the unique birds, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish.
Manafiafy
Manafiafy Beach is located on the southeastern coast of Madagascar near the town of Sainte Luce. Manafiafy is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape into nature. Known for its lush rainforests and rich biodiversity, this area provides a stark contrast to the more arid regions of Madagascar.
How to Go There
Reaching Manafiafy involves a bit of a journey, which adds to its untouched charm. The most common route is flying into Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, and then taking a domestic flight to Fort Dauphin. From Fort Dauphin, it’s a scenic 4 to 5-hour drive to Manafiafy.
Activities To Do
There is one tiny hotel, the Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge, which provides a variety of beach activities such as whale watching, snorkeling, and canoeing. Kayak through tangled mangrove forests, spotting crocodiles and colorful birds. Explore the lush rainforest on guided walks, searching for playful lemurs like brown lemurs and dwarf lemurs.
Ramena
Ramena, a laid-back fishing village, graces the Diego Suarez Bay on Madagascar’s northern coast. Nestled just 18 kilometers north of bustling Diego Suarez, it offers a tranquil alternative with stunning scenery.
How to Go There
To get to Ramena, most travellers fly into Antananarivo and then take a domestic flight to Antsiranana. From there, Ramena is just a short 18-kilometer drive, easily accessible by taxi or rental car.
Activities To Do
Snorkeling and diving are popular, with coral reefs just offshore teeming with marine life. Kayaking and sailing are also readily available to explore the calm waters of the bay.
Salary
This is a beach located in Madagascar’s Toliara Province. It’s known for its beautiful lagoon, comfortable bungalows, and fresh seafood.
How to Go There
The most practical route is flying into Toliara (Tuléar), the nearest major city. From Toliara, Salary Sea Beach is accessible via a 4×4 vehicle—a journey that takes about 4 to 5 hours, traversing sandy tracks and local villages
Activities To Do
With consistent winds, Salary is becoming a popular spot for kite surfing. Beginners and seasoned surfers alike find this spot ideal for the sport.
Conclusion
Madagascar beaches offer something for everyone. From the luxurious beach resorts of Nosy Be to the laid-back charm of Ramena, there’s a perfect spot to unwind. Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, spot playful lemurs in protected reserves, or simply relax on pristine white sand.
Whether you crave adventure or relaxation, Madagascar’s stunning coastline promises an unforgettable beach experience. So pack your swimsuit and sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the magic of Madagascar beaches.
FAQs of Madagascar Beaches
How far is Antananarivo from the beach?
Antananarivo is the capital of Madagascar and sits in the highlands, roughly 120-150 kilometers (75-90 miles) away from the nearest coast. It doesn’t have its own beach. However, beautiful beaches can be found in various coastal locations around Madagascar.
Does Madagascar have good beaches?
Absolutely! Madagascar boasts stunning beaches with something for everyone. From pristine white sand and turquoise waters to vibrant coral reefs and lush vegetation, the coastline offers a paradise for relaxation, adventure, and exploration.
Is Madagascar safe to swim?
Many beaches in Madagascar are safe for swimming, particularly those that are popular with tourists and are well-maintained. However, some remote areas may have strong currents or insufficient safety measures in place. It’s always best to check local advice and observe any posted signs regarding swimming safety.
Do any beach resorts in Madagascar have a pool?
Yes, many beach resorts in Madagascar feature pools. This is especially common in luxury resorts located in tourist hubs like Nosy Be, where guests can enjoy both the natural ocean waters and the comfort of a well-maintained swimming pool.
Is Madagascar safe for tourists?
Madagascar is generally safe for tourists, but like any travel destination, it requires caution and preparation. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings, avoid displaying valuables openly, and follow safety guidelines provided by local authorities or tour guides. Health precautions are also advisable, including vaccinations and protection against mosquitoes.
0 Comments