Beaches in Mauritania
Including Cap Tafarit and Plage de Nouakchott. On the map.
The vibe
The Atlantic coastline here offers an immense, windswept stretch of sand where the desert drops straight into cold, crashing surf. The cooler months bring steadier coastal breezes that make walking the endless shores comfortable under the sun. You will share the space mostly with local fishermen and wheeling gulls rather than sunbathers or resort crowds.
Cap Tafarit, Banc d'Arguin
Dakhlet Nouadhibou
BudapestBamako / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Located within the Banc d'Arguin National Park, this stunning stretch of coastline features vast, pristine golden sands meeting the Atlantic. It is a remote, serene destination where the desert dunes transition directly into the ocean, offering a unique landscape for travelers seeking solitude.
Access. Accessible via 4x4 vehicle from Nouakchott or Nouadhibou; requires a guide or local tour operator to navigate the national park.
Notes. Remote area with no tourist infrastructure; visitors must be self-sufficient and respect the protected status of the park.
Plage de Nouakchott
Nouakchott-Sud Region
Magharebia / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
The primary beach area near the capital, known for its lively atmosphere where local fishermen haul in their colorful pirogues at sunset. It serves as the main social hub for beachgoers in the city, offering wide expanses of sand and a view of the Atlantic surf.
Access. Easy access from the city center of Nouakchott via taxi or private car.
Notes. Currents can be strong; swimming should be done with caution near the fishing port area.