Set along the magnificent Mozambican coast, the city of Xai Xai serves as the capital of the Gaza Province. The city provides an excellent spot to stopover en route to the northern reaches of Mozambique. Twelve kilometres from the bustling city is the gorgeous Xai Xai Beach, the first popular tourist beach north of Maputo. Xai Xai offers plenty of attractions with a long stretch of beach and crystal-clear warm waters. A series of freshwater lakes also provide alternative entertainment including: kayaking, paddle skiing, windsurfing and excellent bird watching. Travellers must pay a visit to the amazing Wenela Tidal Pool, with its unique blowhole and natural tunnel linking the pool to the ocean. Running along the coast, a coral reef creates the ideal snorkelling spot and protects the beach from the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean.