Pomene

Pomene is a remote coastal spot in southern Mozambique, within the Pomene National Reserve. Ships anchor offshore, and passengers tender to the beach. There's no town to speak of: the area consists of a peninsula between the ocean and a lagoon, with mangrove forests, sand dunes, and a handful of small lodges. The ruins of the old Pomene Hotel, a colonial-era building overtaken by vegetation, sit on the peninsula. The lagoon is good for kayaking through the mangroves, where herons and kingfishers are common. The beach has kilometres of empty sand. Snorkelling off the reef shows coral and tropical fish. Guided walks through the reserve may turn up small wildlife, though this isn't big-game country. Food is basic and fresh: grilled fish and seafood from the lodges. Matapa (cassava leaves in coconut milk) is a traditional Mozambican dish. The currency is the Metical. Carry cash since there are no ATMs nearby.