Here are the best beaches in Africa for every kind of escape.

Leave your beach read at home, as the rowdy atmosphere is the main draw here.

Pro tip:Make time to appreciate the spectacular South African scenery beyond the shore.

Twelve Apostles mountain in Camps Bay, Cape Town, South Africa

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While this is a popular spot among families year-round, the real draw can be found under the water.

Today, it’s the laid-back beaches, particularly Plage dAgadir, that are the real draw here.

This popular stretch, roughly 5.5 miles long, is known for its aquamarine waves and shimmering bronze sand.

Ponta Do Ouro pristine beach and town in Mozambique coastline near border of South Africa

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Instead, adventurous beachgoers can check out the remains of hundreds of shipwrecks, lodged in the desolate sand.

Beach-dwelling desert lions, hyenas, and fur seals can be seen roaming the eerie, fog-covered shore.

This 6,300-square-mile wilderness full of predators and giant dunes feels post-apocalyptic and yields photos just as raw and captivating.

Agadir, West Morocco

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Due to its remote location, uncrowded beaches are practically guaranteed.

Just offshore,Mafia Island Marine Parkis home to vibrant coral reef systems and elaborate trenches ideal for diving.

The easiest and prettiest beaches to visit are in Cabo Ledo.

African Forest Elephant Loxodonta In Loango National Park In Gabon

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Pro tip:The winter season, between May and October, provides the best conditions for impressive waves.

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Elevated beachside luxury is easy to find in this aquamarine paradise.

Pro tip:You’ll find a slew of sustainable stays that complement the wild waters.

Clouds over Namibia’s Skeleton Coast

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Kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling to see the lake’s vibrant cichlid fish population are popular activities.

Stick to the sand instead and discover a precious pocket of West African culture.

Pro tip:Benin is the birthplace of Vodun, the religion also known as Voodoo.

Endless ocean blue water with three fishing boats at sunset, very calming

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Located on Principe, Margarida Beach is reachable only by boat or on foot.

The most significant population calls Bubaque Island home.

Honor the landand the memory of those who were forced to leave itwith a visit to Elmina.

Angola, Bengo, surfing at Cabo Ledo on groundswells from the south Atlantic Ocean

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Start by visitingElmina Castle, the oldest European building in sub-Saharan Africa, founded by Portuguese colonizers in 1482.

Cape Vidal, sandy beach Indian Ocean, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

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Breathtaking sandbanks on an island with turquoise water in Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

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A boat on the beach at Cape Maclear on the shores of Lake Malawi, Malawi, Africa.

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Villagers perform Zangbeto Voodoo ritual, Grand Popo, Benin, Africa

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Praia Piscina, Sao Tomé and Principe, November 25, 2016.

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Architecture of the Bubaque Island, the Bissagos Archipelago (Bijagos), Guinea Bissau. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

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The Cape Coast Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is one of a number of slave castles, fortifications in Ghana near Elmina built by Swedish traders.

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Anse Source d’Argent Beach La Digue Island Seychelles

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