Emerald Sea Guide
Emerald Sea: A Turquoise Paradise in Northern Madagascar Guide
Prepare to be mesmerized by the Emerald Sea (Mer d'Emeraude), a stunning lagoon located near Diego Suarez (Antsiranana) in northern Madagascar. This shallow, turquoise-colored lagoon is protected by a barrier reef, creating a calm and idyllic setting for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the pristine white sand beaches. The Emerald Sea is a true paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The Emerald Sea's unique color is due to the shallow depth of the water and the sandy bottom, which reflects the sunlight in a dazzling display of turquoise hues. The barrier reef that surrounds the lagoon provides protection from the open ocean, creating a calm and safe environment for swimming and other water activities. The area has long been a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, drawn to its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The Emerald Sea offers a variety of activities for visitors. Swimming and sunbathing are, of course, the most popular pastimes. Snorkeling is also excellent, with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of colorful fish to be seen just offshore. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular activities when the wind is up. You can also take a boat trip to explore the surrounding islands and sandbars. While there aren't restaurants directly on the Emerald Sea, you can find delicious Malagasy cuisine in nearby Diego Suarez, with many restaurants specializing in fresh seafood.
Transportation
To reach the Emerald Sea, you'll first need to travel to Diego Suarez (Antsiranana) in northern Madagascar. From Diego Suarez, you can hire a taxi, a tuk-tuk, or join a tour to reach the lagoon. The drive takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. Many tour operators offer day trips to the Emerald Sea, which include transportation, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.