Things to Do in Praia da Costa do Sol, Moçambique

Praia da Costa do Sol, located along Mozambique's stunning coastline near Maputo, is a pristine stretch of golden sand beach that epitomizes the natural beauty of East Africa's Indian Ocean shore. This idyllic destination combines crystal-clear turquoise waters with swaying palm trees and traditional fishing villages, offering visitors an authentic taste of Mozambican coastal culture. The beach serves as both a tranquil retreat for relaxation and an adventure hub for water sports enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life just offshore. Local dhow boats dot the horizon, and visitors can experience the rich maritime heritage of Mozambique while enjoying some of the freshest seafood on the continent. Costa do Sol provides an perfect blend of unspoiled natural beauty, cultural immersion, and luxury accommodation options that cater to both budget travelers and those seeking upscale beachfront experiences.

Top Things to Do in Praia da Costa do Sol

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystem of the Indian Ocean, home to colorful tropical fish, rays, and occasional whale shark sightings. The clear waters offer excellent visibility year-round, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Multiple dive sites are accessible from the beach, each offering unique underwater landscapes and marine encounters.

Booking Tip: Book with PADI-certified operators charging $40-80 per dive including equipment. Best visibility is during dry season (May-October). Look for operators offering small group sizes and marine conservation focus.

Traditional Dhow Sailing

Experience authentic Mozambican maritime culture aboard traditional dhow boats, sailing along the coastline at sunset or during day trips to nearby islands. These wooden sailing vessels have been used by local fishermen for centuries and offer a peaceful way to explore the coast. Many trips include opportunities to visit fishing villages and learn about local maritime traditions.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $30-50 per person, sunset cruises $20-35. Book directly with local operators on the beach for best prices. Bring sun protection and confirm life jacket availability.

Deep Sea Fishing

Costa do Sol offers world-class deep sea fishing opportunities with chances to catch marlin, sailfish, tuna, and other game fish in the nutrient-rich waters of the Mozambique Channel. Local operators provide fully equipped boats and experienced guides who know the best fishing spots. The fishing is excellent year-round, with peak seasons varying by species.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters cost $200-400 for groups of 4-6 people. Book 2-3 days in advance and confirm what's included (tackle, bait, drinks). Best months are October-March for marlin and sailfish.

Beach Horseback Riding

Gallop along pristine stretches of sandy beach on horseback, enjoying panoramic ocean views and the refreshing sea breeze. Rides typically include forest trails through coastal vegetation before emerging onto the beach for unforgettable sunset or sunrise experiences. Suitable for various skill levels with gentle horses and experienced guides.

Booking Tip: 2-hour beach rides cost $35-60 per person. Morning and sunset rides are most popular - book 1-2 days ahead. Wear long pants and closed shoes, and confirm weight limits (usually 90kg maximum).

Cultural Village Tours

Visit nearby traditional fishing villages to experience authentic Mozambican culture, including local crafts, music, and daily life of coastal communities. Tours often include demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques, basket weaving, and opportunities to purchase locally made crafts directly from artisans. These experiences provide meaningful cultural exchange and support local communities.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost $25-40 per person including transport. Book through your accommodation or local guides. Bring small denominations of meticais for craft purchases and tip your guide 10-15%.

Getting There

Praia da Costa do Sol is easily accessible from Maputo, Mozambique's capital city, located approximately 30 kilometers south along the coast. Most visitors fly into Maputo International Airport and then take a taxi or rental car for the 45-minute drive along the scenic coastal road. Regular minibus taxis (chapas) also run between Maputo and Costa do Sol for budget travelers, though private transport is more comfortable and reliable. Some visitors arrive overland from South Africa via the Ressano Garcia border crossing, which is about an hour's drive from the beach.

Getting Around

Transportation around Costa do Sol is primarily by foot along the beach, bicycle, or taxi for longer distances. Many accommodations offer bicycle rentals for exploring the immediate area and nearby villages. Local tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are available for short trips, while private taxis can be arranged through hotels for day trips or airport transfers. Walking is pleasant and safe during daylight hours, and most attractions and restaurants are within easy walking distance of the main beach area. Car rental is an option for those wanting to explore the broader region independently.

Where to Stay

Costa do Sol beachfront

Catembe area

Ponta do Ouro vicinity

Maputo city center

Inhaca Island

Macaneta Beach area

Food & Dining

The dining scene at Costa do Sol revolves around incredibly fresh seafood, with beachfront restaurants serving grilled prawns, lobster, crab, and the catch of the day prepared with Portuguese and local Mozambican influences. Many establishments offer dining with your feet in the sand, accompanied by stunning ocean views and cold Laurentina or Manica beer. Local specialties include matapa (cassava leaves with coconut milk and seafood), peri-peri chicken, and various curry dishes reflecting the region's Indian Ocean trading history. Beach bars serve tropical cocktails and light meals throughout the day, while more upscale restaurants in nearby resorts offer international cuisine alongside traditional dishes.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Praia da Costa do Sol is during the dry season from May to October, when temperatures are comfortable (20-28°C), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities, diving, and beach relaxation. November to April is the wet season with higher temperatures, humidity, and occasional tropical storms, though the landscape is lush and green. The shoulder months of April-May and September-October provide excellent weather with fewer crowds. Water temperature remains warm year-round (24-28°C), making swimming and water sports enjoyable in any season.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in meticais as many local establishments don't accept cards, and ATMs can be unreliable

Learn basic Portuguese phrases as English isn't widely spoken outside tourist areas

Always negotiate taxi fares in advance and confirm whether the price is per person or for the entire group

Things to Do in Praia da Costa do Sol