Information
Landmark: Plage El MansouraCity: Kelibia
Country: Tunisia
Continent: Africa
Plage El Mansoura, Kelibia, Tunisia, Africa
Overview
Kelibia Beach-especially Plage El Mansoura-offers one of Tunisia’s most stunning, untouched coastlines, where pale sand meets the clear, turquoise sea.Kelibia sits on the Cap Bon peninsula, roughly 110 kilometers east of Tunis, where turquoise waves meet soft white sand and the air carries a hint of salt, all set against a rich tapestry of history and wild coastal beauty.Kelibia sits at Tunisia’s far northeastern tip, looking out across the blue-gray Strait of Sicily.Unlike the busy tourist hubs of Hammamet or Sousse, this stretch of coast remains largely untouched, with quiet coves and the scent of salt carried on the wind.The region has a Mediterranean climate, with summers that bake under the sun, winters that stay gentle, and sea breezes that hum through the streets, especially in July and August.Kelibia’s main beaches sparkle in the sun, with soft white sand stretching along the shore.Plage El Mansoura is Kelibia’s most famous beach, curving in a wide crescent where soft sand meets clear, turquoise water.It’s famous for its powdery white sand and calm, turquoise shallows where kids can splash safely, with barely a scrap of seaweed and a smooth, rock-free bottom perfect for swimming.Weekdays or off-season, you’ll often have long stretches to yourself-ideal for strolling the shoreline, spotting fish while snorkeling, or gliding out on a paddleboard.Plage de la Corniche sits close to the city center, clean and easy to reach, with the smell of fresh coffee drifting from the little cafés and eateries nearby-loved by local families and swimmers who slip into the water at dawn.Petit Paris Beach is a tucked-away stretch of sand framed by weathered rocks and calm waters, loved by couples and anyone craving privacy.Just above El Mansoura Beach, the massive stone walls of the 12th-century Fort of Kelibia rise against the sky-a Hafsid creation later fortified by the Ottomans.Perched on a hill 150 meters above sea level, the fort looks out over the glittering sea, with El Mansoura and the rugged coastline spread beneath it.Standing on the beach, you see the fort’s dark outline against the sky, a quiet link between sunlit afternoons and Tunisia’s centuries of history.The water is shallow and calm, especially around El Mansoura, where gentle ripples make it a safe spot for kids.The water’s crystal-clear, making it a favorite for snorkelers, especially around the rocky outcrops farther down the coast.The beach stays fairly clean most days, but after a busy weekend you might spot bits of plastic-bottle caps or snack wrappers-scattered along the sand.You won’t always find a lifeguard on duty, so take care in quieter spots where the water laps at empty shorelines.Beach rentals offer umbrellas and loungers, ready for you to claim on sunny high-season days.You might spot a few informal vendors renting out jet skis, paddleboards, or even a kayak with a faded red paddle.Local stalls sell fresh fruit, warm snacks, and cold drinks that bead with condensation.Around here, folks love a grilled fish sandwich-especially when the bread’s warm and the fish still carries a hint of smoky salt from the fire.You’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants just a short stroll from the beach, especially as you head toward the town where the smell of fresh bread drifts from open doorways.With its turquoise sea, bright white sand, and weathered old fort, this place begs to be photographed.Just 20 km north of Kelibia, Fort Kelibia welcomes visitors with a small entry fee and sweeping 360° views; watching the sunset from its weathered ramparts is a must.Nearby, the Kerkouane Archaeological Site-an exceptionally preserved UNESCO Punic city-offers a rare glimpse into pre-Roman urban planning.For places to stay, Cap Bon Kelibia Beach Hotel & Spa sits only 400 meters from El Mansoura, blending traditional charm with modern comforts like a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and balconies facing the sea.Dar Colibri and other local guesthouses provide a more intimate, authentic Tunisian experience, while vacation apartments near the Corniche and El Mansoura suit both short and long stays.Kelibia lies about 2.5 hours from Tunis by car, with shared taxis from Nabeul and buses from Tunis also available.Visit between May and mid-September for warm water and sunshine-weekdays feel calm, weekends fill with local families.Known for its easygoing hospitality and less commercial vibe than Hammamet or Djerba, the area produces excellent Mornag white wine and fresh seafood grilled by small family-run spots.Kelibia Beach, especially Plage El Mansoura, ranks among Tunisia’s most beautiful.It blends rugged cliffs, crystal-clear swimming spots, and a deep sense of history-without the crowds that pack other places.You might spend a lazy afternoon by the turquoise sea, wander through Tunisia’s storied ruins, or savor grilled fish straight from the harbor-Kelibia wraps it all into one unforgettable escape.
