Safe, affordable, and thoroughly enjoyable, Malawi – dubbed the Warm Heart of Africa – has long been a favorite chillout destination for travelers crossing between eastern and southern Africa.
Although technically a landlocked country, its most popular attraction and dominant geographic feature is Lake Malawi, which extends for an incredible 560km (350 miles) through the Rift Valley floor, along the border with Mozambique.
Also known as the Lake of Stars, this vast inland ocean is renowned for its picturesque palm- and baobab-lined beaches and welcoming waterside villages. Travelers can swim, kayak, canoe, snorkel, dive, or simply enjoy the lush tropical African scenery and relaxed company. Here are eight of the best beaches and resort villages in Malawi.
1. Nkhata Bay
Nkhata Bay is hard to imagine as anything less than a likable town. Its magnificent setting comprises a pair of sandy bays and a narrow woody peninsula surrounded by the forested slopes of the Rift Valley.
This laid-back resort village also features an integrated, backpacker-friendly beach scene, where local Tonga people and a diverse array of globetrotters gather to party, play beach volleyball, and socialize. Additionally, Nkhata Bay serves as a fantastic base for active travelers interested in walking, kayaking, and diving courses.
2. Chembe (Cape Maclear)
The smaller village of Chembe, commonly referred to as Cape Maclear, is set on the hilly peninsula’s northwestern tip. This charming locale boasts a beautiful palm-lined beach facing an archipelago of impressive boulder-strewn islands.
Like Nkhata Bay, Chembe offers a perfect place to unwind—whether on the beach, in the bars, or engaging in more active pursuits such as kayaking and snorkeling. Its western orientation makes it one of the few beach resorts in Malawi where you can enjoy unforgettable sunsets over the lake.
3. Kande Beach
Kande Beach has been captivating backpackers and travelers since it opened in 1993. Managed by a laid-back former overland truck driver, it is a great spot to relax, with amenities including a sun-soaked beach, a sociable bar, and an on-site scuba shop. Various activities, such as canoeing, windsurfing, and village tours, are also available.
4. Likoma Island
Situated within Mozambican waters, Likoma is part of Malawi, primarily due to its historical significance as the site of an anti-slaving Anglican mission in the 1860s.
With stunning views beneath the mountainous Mozambican shore, a few idyllic resorts—particularly Kaya Mawa—offer a uniquely luxurious yet relaxed experience, embodying the essence of “barefoot luxury.” The island’s charm is enhanced by its remote atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility.
5. Chizumulu Island
For those seeking a more peaceful retreat, Chizumulu provides an unaffected paradise situated 10km (6 miles) west of Likoma. A solitary backpacker-friendly lodge offers an enchanting beach location and a timeless ambiance, complemented by a selection of activities like paddling, snorkeling, and village walks.
6. Mumbo Island
This small rocky island in Lake Malawi National Park features an eco-friendly lodge, constructed entirely of natural or recyclable materials, blending rustic charm with boutique style. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Mumbo are perfect for kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. Alternatively, one can simply unwind in a hammock while observing the resident otters.
7. Chitimba
Located in one of Lake Malawi’s most northern beaches, Chitimba is nestled between imposing escarpments rising 1km (0.6 miles) above the lakeshore. Unlike other popular beach towns, Chitimba offers a couple of laid-back resorts set on a serene white beach. This destination is ideal for relaxation while still serving as a strategic springboard for the less-developed northern regions of Malawi.
8. Senga Bay
As the nearest beach resort to the capital, Lilongwe, Senga Bay has become a preferred weekend getaway and conference location. While the accommodations lean towards the upscale and formal side, the long, sandy beach and surrounding local fishing villages provide ample opportunities for leisure and exploration.
If one wishes to see wildlife nearby, there are two options: the organized Kuti Wildlife Reserve, featuring a network of drivable tracks and bike paths, or the more secluded Thuma Forest Reserve, where guided walks are available, spotting wildlife like leopards and elephants.
