AZURA MARLIN BEACH – BENGUERRA ISLAND

Benguerra Island is one of the five islands that make up Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, a protected marine national park renowned for its coral reefs, clear waters and long stretches of undeveloped coastline. With no paved roads and only a handful of small lodges across the island, it remains a destination where the natural environment shapes the experience rather than the other way round.

Located on the south-western coastline of the island, Azura Marlin Beach occupies the site of the former Marlin Lodge, which for many years was one of Mozambique’s best-known beach retreats. The property has been completely redeveloped by Azura Retreats, creating a smaller resort with just ten villas overlooking the Indian Ocean.

The atmosphere here is noticeably different from neighbouring Azura Benguerra. Whilst Benguerra has the feel of an established island lodge, Azura Marlin has a more contemporary style, with clean lines, open spaces and uninterrupted views towards the sea. Its location also places it within easy reach of some of the archipelago’s best snorkelling, diving and fishing grounds, making it particularly appealing for guests who plan to spend as much time on the water as on the beach.

Although the setting encourages guests to slow down, there is plenty to do for those wishing to explore the island. A walk along the beach leads to the nearby village, traditional dhows continue to fish the surrounding waters, and each day offers the opportunity to experience a different part of the archipelago, whether by boat, beneath the water or simply watching the changing colours of the ocean from the lodge.

LOCATION

Azura Marlin Beach is situated on the south-west coast of Benguerra Island within the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park, approximately 14 kilometres offshore from Vilanculos. Guests usually arrive via Vilanculos International Airport before transferring by helicopter to the island, with the flight providing an excellent view of the sandbanks, reefs and shallow turquoise waters that characterise the archipelago.

The resort combines particularly well with safari itineraries in Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia, providing an easy transition from the African bush to the Indian Ocean. Its position within the marine park also makes it an excellent choice for guests wishing to explore the underwater environment as well as enjoy time on the beach.

LODGE

Azura Marlin Beach has ten beachfront villas, each positioned to look across the Indian Ocean with direct access to the beach. The accommodation has been designed with simplicity in mind, making full use of natural light, sea views and outdoor living space rather than elaborate interiors. Private decks, shaded seating areas and generous living space allow guests to enjoy the setting throughout the day.

The villas are available in a choice of layouts, making the resort suitable for both couples and families. Larger villas provide additional living space and private pools, whilst the exclusive Villa Vista offers two en-suite bedrooms linked by a central lounge and outdoor entertaining area. Throughout the resort, the emphasis is on space and privacy rather than the number of rooms.

The main guest areas include a restaurant, cocktail lounge, swimming pool, rooftop terrace and PADI dive centre, all within a short walk of the beach. Meals make good use of fresh seafood and local produce, with the menu changing according to seasonal availability. The rooftop terrace has become one of the natural gathering places within the resort, particularly towards the end of the day as the light changes across the archipelago.

Fishing has always been closely associated with this part of Benguerra Island and remains an important part of the lodge’s identity. The dedicated fishing centre caters for both experienced anglers and those wishing to try saltwater fishing for the first time, whilst the dive centre provides easy access to many of the reefs that have made the Bazaruto Archipelago one of Mozambique’s leading marine destinations.

ACTIVITIES

Snorkelling and Diving – The Bazaruto Archipelago is recognised as one of the Indian Ocean’s leading diving destinations, with a series of coral reefs supporting an impressive variety of marine life. Guided snorkelling and diving excursions explore reefs where turtles, rays, reef fish and seasonal whale sharks may be encountered, while experienced divers can visit some of Mozambique’s best-known offshore dive sites.

Ocean Safaris – Boat trips provide an opportunity to explore more of the archipelago, visiting remote sandbanks, quiet beaches and neighbouring islands. Dolphins are regularly seen during these excursions and, between July and September, humpback whales migrate through the surrounding waters.

Fishing – The waters around Benguerra Island have earned an international reputation amongst anglers. The resort offers both conventional deep-sea fishing and specialised catch-and-release fly fishing, with experienced skippers tailoring each trip to the season and prevailing conditions. Whether targeting giant trevally on the flats or larger game fish offshore, the area offers opportunities for anglers of all abilities.

Dhow Cruises – Traditional sailing dhows remain an important part of everyday life throughout the archipelago. Sunset cruises provide a relaxing way to explore the coastline while offering an insight into a style of sailing that has changed very little over generations.

Island Exploration – Guided excursions introduce guests to the quieter side of Benguerra Island, visiting freshwater lakes, coastal dunes and local villages. These outings help explain how island communities continue to live alongside the protected marine environment that surrounds them.

Horse Riding – Horse riding along the beach offers another way to experience the island. Rides are suitable for a range of abilities and may include the opportunity to ride through the shallow waters along the shoreline when tides and conditions allow.

Spa and Wellness – The Peri-Peri Spa offers a range of treatments using locally inspired ingredients and provides a quiet space to relax between activities or after a day spent exploring the archipelago.

GIVING BACK

Azura Retreats established the Azura Rainbow Fund to support the communities of Benguerra Island through education, healthcare, environmental conservation and skills development. Many of the people working at the lodge are from the local community, while guests have opportunities to learn more about projects that contribute to the long-term wellbeing of both the island and its residents.

The resort also supports marine conservation within the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, recognising the importance of protecting the coral reefs, seagrass beds and coastal habitats that make this part of Mozambique so special.

AZURA MARLIN BEACH IS OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND.

THE RESORT WELCOMES BOTH COUPLES AND FAMILIES. A CHOICE OF VILLA TYPES IS AVAILABLE TO SUIT DIFFERENT PARTY SIZES. PLEASE ASK US FOR THE LATEST CHILD POLICY WHEN PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAY