Barra Beach, known locally as Praia da Barra, is a beautiful coastal area located about 25 km’s from the historic town of Inhambane which is one of the oldest towns in Mozambique with roots dating back over a thousand years.Today, Inhambaneis known for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and beautiful nearby beaches such as Tofo and Barra.

The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama visited in 1498 and named Inhambane “Terra de Boa Gente,” meaning “Land of Good People”, a name that still rings true today.

Originally inhabited by the Bitonga, it became a key stop for Arab traders by the 10th century. A Portuguese trading post was established in the 16th century, turning Inhambane into an important port for ivory and coconut products. After Mozambique’s independence in 1975, Inhambane became the capital of Inhambane Province.

The Barra area has long been home to local fishing communities who relied on the rich waters of the Indian Ocean for their livelihood. During the Portuguese colonial period, Barra was a quiet, undeveloped stretch of coastline known mainly to locals and traders.

In the years following Mozambique’s independence in 1975, Barra began to attract visitors for its natural beauty, calm waters, and coral reefs. By the late 20th century, it developed into a popular tourist destination, offering diving, snorkeling, and beach resorts, celebrated for its clear waters, marine life including  humpback whales, whale sharks and manta rays (July to October), and relaxed tropical atmosphere.