Santa Maria is a small, remote coastal village on the northern end of Mozambique's Machangulo Peninsula, overlooking the sheltered waters of Maputo Bay and the Indian Ocean. Surrounded by white-sand beaches, dunes, coastal forest and mangroves, it is a laid-back beach destination centred on nature and water-based activities. Travellers can snorkel and dive around the reefs and marine reserve near Inhaca Island, kayak through mangroves, take dhow cruises across the bay or head out for deep-sea fishing. Boat excursions to Inhaca offer opportunities to explore its beaches, reefs and local communities, while seasonal whale watching adds a wildlife dimension. With its beautiful beaches, warm waters and rich marine life, Santa Maria offers a tranquil, off-the-beaten-track escape on Mozambique's southern coast.