Azura Marlin Beach

Azura Marlin Beach is on a one-kilometre-long stretch of white-sand beach in the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park, an area which recently came under conservation management by African Parks. It has an elevated position on the dunes with fabulous sunset views across the ocean. Its island location means it’s close to the reefs and picnic spots to be found just off Benguerra Island for those who can leave the comfort of their daybed to enjoy the vast array of experiences on offer. It is the third property in Azura’s Mozambican portfolio, slightly more modern Mozambican in its styling with a relaxed, informal vibe.

Paradise Found

Just 10 villas are nestled along one of the last undiscovered stretches of beach in the world, with all the creature comforts you could wish for, including Mozambican butler-hosts to look after your every need, fish and seafood fresh from the ocean, a fantastic range of activities and experiences, an African Massage Pavilion for relaxation, all at a community based project where the local islanders benefit as much as you. Azura Marlin Beach is the escape to paradise you’ve been dreaming of.

The villas blend modern styling with traditional African prints. Each of the 10 villas overlooks the bay with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views. A haven of rest and relaxation, just steps from the magnificent white sand beach, with the warm sea beckoning just beyond.

The six Beach Villas (100m2 each) are steps from the ocean, offering sea views, king-size or twin beds with romantic netting, and indoor and outdoor showers. Each villa is a tranquil retreat with a private deck for soaking in the island’s beauty.

All Villas have a dedicated Mozambican butler host, who looks after the guests for the duration of their stay, as well as a beach front location on the water’s edge.

At 132m2, the Beach Villa Grandes provide more relaxation space, ideal for families or couples. They feature all the comforts of the Beach Villas, with room for two children in the sitting area, and are conveniently located near the main hotel area.

All Villas have a dedicated Mozambican butler host, who looks after the guests for the duration of their stay, as well as a beach front location on the water’s edge.

380m2 accommodates up to four guests in two en-suite bedrooms with the same features as the Beach Villas. It includes an indoor entertainment area with dining and lounge spaces, plus a private pool and beachside sala, offering privacy and stunning ocean views.

All Villas have a dedicated Mozambican butler host, who looks after the guests for the duration of their stay, as well as a beach front location on the water’s edge.

FISHING *

Guided fly-fishing and deep sea (boat) fishing. Equipment is provided.

SCUBA DIVING *

PADI Dive Centre. Scuba courses available, including kids bubble-maker.

SNORKELLING *

Boat-based and guided. Equipment is provided.

PARADISE ISLAND*

1-hr speedboat ride. Guided tour of historical ruins, snorkelling, and picnic lunch.

ISLAND HOPPING*

Snorkel along 2-Mile Reef, climb a desert red dune, and picnic at North Point. Travel via speedboat.

RED DUNE AND CROCODILE LAKE DRIVE

Hike Red Dune, spot crocodiles, and visit local island communities.

SUNSET DHOW CRUISE

One trip per guest (as part of a group) is included.
Additional trips will carry a charge.
For all ages.

KIDS ACTIVITIES

Variety of activities with Azura guides.

WHALE WATCHING*

Boat based between July and October – Humpback Whales.

PERI PERI BEACH CLUB

Pool, restaurant, bar, and spa.

* Carry an additional charge | Horse riding only available at Azura Benguerra

Azura Retreats is located on Benguerra Island within the Bazaruto Marine National Park. Benguerra is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, which is made up of five islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Banque, and Santa Carolina (or Paradise Island).

Benguerra Island is approximately 9 kilometres x 5 kilometres and has about 2000 inhabitants. It lies some 14 kilometres north east of Vilanculos, the nearest town and site of the international airport. Benguerra is famous for its unspoiled white beaches, remarkable dive sites and excellent fishing.

The nearest airport is Vilanculos International Airport (VNX) on the Mozambique mainland.

There are daily flights from Johannesburg International airport (OR Tambo) with Airlink, at approximately 80 minutes flight time.

Flights are also available from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (MQP), allowing for an excellent ‘bush and beach’ combination. From July to January, these flights are direct and during the rest of the year, the flights will route via Johannesburg.

Once you arrive in Vilanculos, it is a 8-minute scenic helicopter transfer to Benguerra Island.

You can expect amazing warm and sunny weather year-round as Benguerra Island is one of 10 countries aligned along the Tropic of Capricorn.

November to March are very hot summer months with temperatures easily reaching the mid to high 30s during the day – 35°C/95°F. The evening temperatures usually drop by around 8 to 10^oC to 26°C/79°F.

April to May, as well as September and October, are some of our most popular months for those who like warm weather, with temperatures reaching daily highs of around 27^oC/81^oF. In the evening, temperatures drop by around 7 to 8°C to 18°C/66°F.

June to August can hardly be called winter however, as daily temperatures range around the higher 20s during the day – 26°C/79°F and between 8-10°C cooler in the evenings so are around 17°C/63°F.

Rainfall is generally restricted to the mainland with the islands receiving very little rainfall, although some showers can occur between November and February. These are usually short, sharp bursts, often at night, helping to cool the very hot temperatures of the summer months.

Ocean temperatures are comfortably warm in the summer months and can reach 28/29°C (84°F). In winter, it still remains warm enough for swimming (24/25°C or 77°F).

It is therefore clear why the Bazaruto Archipelago is a such a serious contender as a year-round popular holiday destination!