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
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Santa Maria Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +25.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Santa Maria Beach: 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.
Santa Maria Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Santa Maria Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — powdery. Beach length — 2 000 metres.
Santa Maria Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in 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.
Santa Maria Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Santa Maria Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Santa Maria Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Santa Maria Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Santa Maria Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Lucas, Bemugi-s Bar & Restaurant. Cuisines available: Mozambican. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Santa Maria Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Snorkel mask, Water shoes, Cash.
Santa Maria Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people.
Santa Maria Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Do not disturb marine life. Be careful near Hell-s Gate.
Santa Maria Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Santa Maria Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for snorkelling, diving and quiet nature holidays. Suitable for couples and families with children. Not suitable for those seeking developed infrastructure.
Santa Maria Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is located within the Inhaca Marine Reserve, which protects 2 km of coral reefs. It is one of the best places in Mozambique for observing dolphins, sea turtles and colourful tropical fish.
Santa Maria Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sandy beach, Crystal-clear water, Excellent snorkelling with coral reefs, Dolphin and turtle watching, Inhaca Marine Reserve, Secluded location, Accessible by boat from Maputo. Cons: Boat access only, Limited infrastructure, Strong currents near Hell-s Gate, Mosquitoes in rainy season.
Santa Maria Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Inhaca Marine Reserve, Hell-s Gate. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Santa Maria Beach: how do I get to the city of Inhaca?
The beach is located near the city of Inhaca. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Inhaca.