Saly Holidays

Classic Africa

Saly’s been dubbed as Senegal’s answer to the French Riviera. That’s thanks to its neat beaches, French restaurants and high-end digs – but this east coast town hasn’t swayed far from its African roots. Local shops come in the form of roadside market stalls, fisherman take to the ocean on hand-painted boats, and the beachfront hotels mostly lay low behind palms.

Beach days

If there was a competition for Senegal’s best beach, Saly’s roomy stretch would likely come up trumps. It pulls in a big chunk of west Africa’s tourist numbers, yet still manages to stay crowd-free. The tea-tinted sand’s well-geared up for lazy days – loungers and thatched palapas are in good supply. Plus, there’s a string of hotel restaurants on hand for drinks and grub.

On the water

Saly’s beach is a hit with sunbathers, but watersports fans will have plenty to get their mitts on, too. Deep sea fishing’s a popular pastime around here – in the summer, tuna, marlin and sharks hang out in their droves. Closer to shore, you can zip around on a jet-ski, or try your hand at a spot of windsurfing.