Things to Do in Tofo Beach

Tofo Beach sits along Mozambique's southeastern coast, about 500 kilometers north of Maputo, and it's one of those places that still feels genuinely undiscovered despite growing popularity among backpackers and marine life enthusiasts. The town itself is pretty small - essentially a collection of beach lodges, local restaurants, and dive shops scattered along a spectacular stretch of coastline where the warm Indian Ocean meets towering sand dunes. What makes this place special isn't luxury infrastructure (you won't find any), but rather some of the world's most reliable whale shark and manta ray encounters, plus a laid-back vibe that encourages you to slow down and actually relax. The local Inhambane culture blends seamlessly with the international crowd that comes for the diving, and you'll find yourself eating fresh seafood at beachside restaurants where the day's catch determines the menu. The beaches here are genuinely stunning - long stretches of golden sand backed by dunes, with consistent surf breaks that work year-round. It's the kind of place where days blur together in the best possible way, whether you're diving with megafauna, learning to surf, or simply reading a book under a palm tree.

The dining scene revolves around fresh seafood and Portuguese-influenced Mozambican cuisine, with most restaurants operating as simple beachside affairs where the day's catch determines the menu. You'll find excellent prawns, crab, lobster, and line fish prepared with coconut, peri-peri spices, or Portuguese-style with garlic and wine. Restaurants like Dino's and Turtle Cove are longtime favorites, while local establishments serve traditional dishes like matapa (cassava leaves with coconut) and fresh bread baked daily. Most places are casual - think plastic chairs in the sand - but the quality of seafood is genuinely impressive. Vegetarian options exist but are limited, and it's worth noting that service operates on 'Mozambique time,' so don't come hungry and expect quick turnaround.

The dry season from May to October offers the most comfortable weather with minimal rainfall, lower humidity, and consistent southeast trade winds that keep temperatures pleasant. This is peak season though, so expect higher prices and more crowds. November to April is wet season, which means higher temperatures, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms, but also better whale shark sightings and fewer tourists. The cyclone season (December-March) can bring rough weather, though direct hits are relatively rare. For diving specifically, October through March offers the best whale shark encounters, while May through September provides the clearest water visibility.