Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
600 m
Frequently asked questions
Anse Baleine: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal clear, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. The water is so clear that the bottom is visible even at depth — ideal for snorkelling. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Anse Baleine: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Anse Baleine: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Anse Baleine: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 600 metres.
Anse Baleine: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in April, May. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Anse Baleine: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Anse Baleine: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Anse Baleine: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Anse Baleine: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Anse Baleine: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurants in nearby villages. Cuisines available: Malagasy. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Anse Baleine: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, Water, Mosquito repellent.
Anse Baleine: when is the best time to swim?
Best time for whale watching is July to September. For swimming — April to October when the sea is calm.
Anse Baleine: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Do not disturb whales during observation. Respect the local community.
Anse Baleine: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Anse Baleine: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the sheltered bay where swimming is possible even in moderate swell, and for whale watching enthusiasts from July to September. Not suitable for those seeking developed infrastructure.
Anse Baleine: what makes this beach unique?
Sheltered curved bay where swimming is possible even in moderate swell, and one of the best spots on the island for humpback whale watching from July to September.
Anse Baleine: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Sheltered bay safe for swimming, White sand beach, Humpback whale watching from July to September, Scenic curved bay, Calm atmosphere, Close to village, Natural shade from trees. Cons: Located 15 km from Ambodifotatra, Limited infrastructure, No lifeguards, Can be windy, No large hotels on the beach, Limited entertainment.
Anse Baleine: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Whale Watching, Pirate Cemetery, Île aux Nattes, Ikalalao Forest. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Anse Baleine: how do I get to the city of Sainte Marie?
The beach is located near the city of Sainte Marie. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Sainte Marie.