Things to Do in Polana Beach

Polana Beach sits just minutes from Maputo's chaotic streets yet feels like another world entirely. The beach stretches for several kilometers, backed by the upscale Polana neighborhood where colonial-era mansions mix with modern hotels and restaurants. Total peace here. What makes this spot work is simple accessibility—you can walk here from central Maputo, yet it feels completely separate with its wide sandy shore and calm waters. The vibe differs sharply from other African beach destinations, with laid-back Portuguese influence still evident in beachfront cafes and the unhurried pace of local life.

The dining scene around Polana Beach leans heavily toward seafood, as you'd expect. Everything from casual beach grills to upscale restaurants serving Portuguese-influenced cuisine. Prawns are practically mandatory. They're incredibly fresh and prepared dozens of different ways. You'll also find good Italian and Lebanese options reflecting the city's diverse population, plus local Mozambican dishes like matapa and peri-peri chicken that is authentic rather than the chain restaurant version. Prices range from very reasonable at local spots to quite expensive at hotel restaurants—something for every budget.

May through September offers the most comfortable weather. Cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall make beach activities particularly enjoyable. The trade-off is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded beaches. October through April brings hotter, more humid weather plus the possibility of cyclones—but you'll find better deals and fewer tourists. The shoulder months of April and October can be ideal with still-warm swimming weather but not unbearable heat, plus lower accommodation rates than peak season.