Top News

Travel experts have named the best beach in Africa, ranking number four overall globally. Africa is home to some absolutely breathtaking beaches, and popular ones are found in the likes of Egypt and South Africa. However, the best beach in Africa is not in either of those countries. In fact, it is in one of the least-visited countries in the whole continent. The World's 50 Best Beaches recently revealed its 2026 list, naming some beautoful coastal spots from all corners of the globe that make up the complete list.

While the number one spot went to a stunning beach in the Philippines, a beautiful destination in Africa nabbed the number four spot, beating well-known beaches in countries like Italy and Greece. Tourists looking for a beach holiday in Africa often travel to Kenya, Egypt, Tanzania and Mozambique. However, the continent's best beach for 2026 is located on the island nation of Africa, often overlooked by globetrotters.

Madagascar is located off the east coast of Africa. The massive island is home to dense forests, scenic mountains and a considerably long coastline.

And one spot has been given the title of the best beach in Africa. Nosy Iranja nabbed the number 4 spot on the global list, earning the name of Africa's best beach.

The otherworldly beach is located off the north-west coast of the island nation. According to this year's ranking, the beach is "a truly unique destination made up of two smaller islands: Nosy Iranja Be and Nosy Iranja Kely".

"What makes this place so iconic is the sandbar that connects the two islets at low tide, creating a rare and breathtaking landscape," it adds. "The famous 2-kilometre sandbar disappears as the tide rises, with the clear turquoise water concealing the pristine white stretch of sand. Nosy Iranja is also a haven for marine life, including sea turtles that frequently nest along its shores."

Indeed, it has received rave reviews from those who have visited it before. One travel writer, known online as Luggage and Lipstick, called it "the prettiest beach you've never heard of".

The beach beat out others on the continent to earn its spot on the list, ranking much higher than Le Mourne Beach in Mauritius and Boulders Beach in South Africa.

While the beach is indeed beautiful, travellers are warned to be cautious when travelling to Madagascar. The Foreign Office says that violent robberies are common throughout Madagascar, and foreigners are often the target.

"There have been violent robberies and assaults even in the daytime. Be aware of this risk if you visit isolated and remote beaches, especially alone. Get local advice or use an experienced travel operator when visiting any beach," the official advice reads.

It adds: "There are frequent armed robberies on main roads, particularly at night and outside major towns. Where possible, drive in a convoy. Either use a recognised tour operator or ask your hotel to arrange transport. Always keep car doors locked and windows closed, particularly in Antananarivo."

"Due to the risk of robbery, avoid using multi-passenger taxi vans ('taxi-brousses' or 'bush taxis'). If you're attacked in any vehicle, do not resist or argue as the criminal could be armed. Stay calm and agree to their demands.

"If you are stopped by security personnel or police, ask for ID as there have been reports of criminals falsely claiming to be police.

"Report any incident to the police if possible. Take a copy of the police report if you need it for an insurance claim."