Azura Marlin Beach

OVERVIEW:

Azura Marlin Beach is a barefoot luxury boutique property occupying an idyllic setting on Benguerra Island, surrounded by powder-white sand and translucent turquoise sea. A redevelopment of the original Marlin Lodge, Azura’s latest venture presents the ultimate laidback island retreat, perfect for sunset dhow cruises, diving amongst vibrant coral reefs, and relaxing on the picture-perfect beach to which the private villas have direct access. Whether you’re after a standalone beach holiday or a post-Southern African safari, we’re confident that Azura will deliver an exceptional tropical getaway. Rates are full board and include all meals and house drinks, a dedicated host, a selection of land and water activities, and access to Peri Peri Beach Club.

Book a five-night stay, and you’ll receive a complimentary sixth night if you stay any time between now and 15 December 2025.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

Azura Marlin Beach is located on Benguerra Island in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park. Guests arrive at Vilankulo Airport (there are daily flights from Johannesburg) and take a 15-minute helicopter ride to the airstrip, followed by a short road transfer.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT AZURA MARLIN BEACH:

Guest accommodation at Azura Marlin Beach consists of ten oceanfront villas – a combination of Beach Villas, Beach Villa Grandes, and the two-bedroom Villa Vista, ideal for families, with its own central lounge/dining area and a large private pool. Each of the villas has a light, contemporary aesthetic, with thatched roofs, natural weave rugs, crisp white linens, local crafts, and blue accents that reflect the exquisite seafront setting. Features include indoor–outdoor living spaces, private decks, direct beach access, and a dedicated butler–host who’ll handle all requests throughout your stay.

Azura Marlin Beach’s communal areas optimize the stunning Indian Ocean views from every angle, with a multitude of spaces to relax and soak up the tropical island setting. There’s a beautiful ocean-facing swimming pool with sun loungers, parasols, a shaded sala, and a dining space for al fresco poolside lunches. The culinary emphasis is on fresh, locally sourced seafood and Mozambican–Portuguese flavors that guests can enjoy in a variety of settings, including fun weekly beach barbecues. Also on site is a resort spa, a boutique shop for stocking up on souvenirs and essentials, and watersports and PADI 5-Star dive center. Wi-Fi is accessible in the main areas, and the villas have limited mobile phone network.

ACTIVITIES AT AZURA MARLIN BEACH:

• Beach time

  – Having made the journey to Benguerra Island, most travelers will want to start their stay with some laidback beach time! Marlin Beach is perfect for sunbathing, strolling, and swimming in the crystal-clear sea. Stretched out in front of the hotel is a whole kilometer of powder-white sand and turquoise-blue Indian Ocean water within the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park.

• Diving

  – Azura Marlin Beach has its own PADI 5-Star dive center equipped with high-quality scuba-pro gear. Also known as ocean safari, diving is an exciting opportunity to observe the archipelago’s marine life at a number of sites around Benguerra.

• Snorkeling

  – Also on offer directly from the watersports center, snorkeling is another wonderful way to take a look at the world beneath the waters, including colorful corals, turtles, and all sorts of fish species.

• Fishing

  – As its name suggests, Marlin Beach is a dream destination for keen anglers, with marlin and sailfish routinely caught here. Please note that fishing is offered on a catch-and-release basis only.

• Sunset dhow cruise

  – Take to the waters of the Indian Ocean on a traditional East African sailboat for delicious cocktails as the sun begins to set on another glorious day.

• Island drives

  – Travellers interested in exploring Benguerra can clamber aboard a 4×4 vehicle and enjoy spectacular views of the island’s savanna, woods, freshwater lakes, and wetlands. There are about 140 bird species, so ornithologists are in for a treat!

• Paradise Island

  – Set sail on a boat exploration to visit the smallest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago and travel back in time as you explore the ruins of the iconic Hotel Santa Carolina.

• Beach dinners

  – Dine beneath a starlit sky with your own romantic candlelit dinner, beautifully arranged right in front of your villa to the soundtrack of lapping waves.