Things to Do in Xai-Xai

Xai-Xai sits where the Limpopo River meets the Indian Ocean, 200 kilometers north of Maputo. This relaxed beach town draws South Africans and locals seeking long stretches of undeveloped coastline and a laid-back vibe. Small and unpretentious—exactly the point. You won't find luxury resorts here. The beaches stretch for kilometers in both directions, backed by dunes and coconut palms, with warm water year-round that's perfect for swimming and basic water sports. No tourist circus. While Xai-Xai might not have the infrastructure of more developed beach destinations, it has an authentic slice of Mozambican coastal life where you can genuinely unwind.

The dining scene is refreshingly unpretentious. You'll find simple beachside restaurants serving excellent fresh seafood, particularly prawns, crab, and line fish caught that morning. Many places don't have formal menus—you'll often choose from whatever came in with the fishing boats. A few Portuguese-influenced restaurants in town serve decent peri-peri chicken and basic pasta dishes. For the most real feel, look for local families who cook meals for visitors. The food is usually better and cheaper than the restaurants, though you'll need to arrange this through your accommodation. Don't expect fancy presentation. The ingredients are incredibly fresh and the grilled seafood is genuinely excellent.

Weather is warm year-round. April through September tends to be the most pleasant with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. December through March can be quite hot and humid with occasional heavy rains—storms usually pass quickly. This is also when the fruit trees are producing and everything is lush and green. South African school holidays (particularly December/January and Easter) see the biggest crowds. The ocean temperature is consistently warm for swimming regardless of when you visit.