Diani Beach, Kenya. (PHOTO: iStock)

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Africa has some of the world's most beautiful beaches. South Africans, in particular, tend to flock to destinations like Seychelles, Mauritius and Mozambique to get that island feeling, or to escape winter or even to discover new nature spots.

The World Travel Awards (WTA) just awarded Diani Beach in Kenya the win for Africa's Best Beach Destination of 2018. The runner-ups included: 

Bazaruto, Mozambique

Cape Town, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Zanzibar, Tanzania 

READ: Osaka, Kos and Durban make British Airways top 19 destinations list for 2019 

Here's a closer look at these stellar beach destinations: 

1. Diani Beach, Kenya

Instagram hasn't discovered this beach. Relatively uncrowded, this vibrant haven is a sliver of paradise. Found on the quiet shores of the Indian Ocean just south of Mombasa in beautiful Kenya, it is a dream holiday destination for those seeking sun, sand and swimming. 

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT: Johannesburg to Mombasa

(PHOTOS: iStock)

2. Bazaruto, Mozambique

The pristine beaches of Bazaruto Island are some of the most breathtaking in the world. Sitting (very) pretty in Bazaruto National Park, off the coast of southern Mozambique, Bazaruto island is dotted with resorts, and marine life like turtles and dugong. 

(PHOTO: iStock)

3. Cape Town, South Africa

With postcard-perfect views, Cape Town arguably has some of the best beaches in the world. From more crowded beaches like Clifton, to hidden ones like Beta Beach; they are all worth a visit. 

(PHOTO: iStock)

4. Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Another South African coastal destination, Plett's beaches are ideal for surfing, skimboarding and bodyboarding. The town's 20 kilometres of scenic Indian Ocean coastline is a must-visit when doing the Garden Route. 

5. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

This Egyptian resort town is known for it's magnificent beaches. Found between the desert of the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea, visitors flock to this area for its sheltered beaches sporting clear waters and coral reefs. 

(PHOTO: iStock)

6. Zanzibar, Tanzania

ZANZIBAR PACKAGE DEALS: Browse them here. 

The Tanzania Specialists note that Zanzibar features outstanding powder white beaches along its eastern shores, flanked by barrier reefs, and the UNESCO World heritage site of Stone Town on its western edge. 

READ: What's it really like to go on one of those package deal holidays?

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