What does one say about a resort that surpasses most expectations?
WHITE PEARL RESORT is at the end of a long, sandy beach road, just a few kilometres north of the ever popular Ponta d’Oura, but it might as well be a world away! The accommodation is almost decadent in its luxury. There are 22 Pool Suites, with King size beds, a lounge area, a free standing bath with a gorgeous sea-view, plus an outdoor shower, and your own private sundeck and pool!
The suites have a well-stocked mini bar, satellite TV, and a variety of snacks provided in the room, along with a host / butler to tend to your every need. Who needs to ever go home?
Aside from each suite having its own pool, there is a large swimming pool at the main pool bar, and another at the Beach bar.
And aside from the King size bed in your suite, you can decide to take your nap on one of the four-poster beds spread along the beach. Or on the decking around one of the swimming pools, for just this purpose!
getting here
Now that the Maputo / Catembe bridge is open, this resort is that much easier to access. However, for those who don’t wish to make the drive, either in their own vehicle or with one of the White Pearl vehicles, you can opt for the decadence of a helicopter flight from Maputo! This flight over the Maputo Special Reserve is a highlight all of it’s own, with the ocean on one side and the beautiful reserve below. One may even spot a herd of elephant, although the pilot is not permitted to take the helicopter too low, so sightings are from quite high.
Dinners at White Pearl are an elegant affair, when smart casual is expected with long trousers, collared shirts and closed shoes being the requirement for men.
Lunch is served at the Beach Bar, which is decorated with a variety of mirrors and with gorgeous sea views! On one day lunch was served on the beach, picnic style with a luxury twist! Comfortable white armchairs, bean bags or day beds with tables laden with a spread of delicious cold foods and icy 2M beers or a crisp white wine! The staff standing by to bring you a fresh cold beverage at any time.
activities
The resort has a Spa at the top of the sand dunes, with stunning views in all directions. I was spoilt with a full body massage, which in such surroundings is extra special.
Among activities on offer include horse riding on the beach or along trails near the mangroves, as well as Scuba diving, Deep-sea fishing, sea kayaks, turtle walks (in season), etc.
ocean safari
We were invited on an Ocean Safari which was surely the highlight of our trip! We met up at the Watersports centre near the beach, where we were kitted out with masks, snorkels & fins for our ocean adventure. Wetsuits also available for those that prefer. Then off to the beach after a safety briefing.
Hopping onto the boat was simple enough and off we went, all staring out hopefully for a sighting of one or two dolphins. There is no guarantee that you will spot any or be able to swim with them, but we were lucky this time! After only about 15 minutes we came across a pod of about 20 bottle nose dolphins and once the boat stopped a little ahead of them we were told we could join them in the water!
swimming with dolphins
I surprised myself as I slid into the water with no other thought than that I wanted desperately to swim with these beautiful creatures. (I had been terrified of being out in the ocean with land so far away, just a short while before our encounter with these wild dolphins)
The highlight of our stay!
What an incredible experience!! I wish I could say the dolphins lingered to play with us, but they were not too concerned by our presence either. We were told they may have been sleeping as apparently dolphins swim with one eye closed and one eye open. But we were right in amongst them and the experience was very special. We clambered somewhat inelegantly aboard the boat again and followed the dolphins, where we were again allowed to join them in the ocean. After a third time, we decided to let them go on their way, and we headed back to the resort, all chattering excitedly about our amazing experience!
This is surely a bucket list experience for most people, and I have to say it was an encounter I will always cherish!
Mozambique Islands can offer expert advice, guaranteed best rates and packages to White Pearl or any number of other luxury island or beach resorts in Mozambique. Follow us on FaceBook and Instagram : Mozambique Islands or Glam Vanners to see more of our adventures in Mozambique. Call or What’s App: +27 83 299 4321 or email: info@mozambiqueislands.com