Andilana, on the northwestern tip of Nosy Be, is the most famous beach on the island — long, white, lined with palms, and angled to catch the best sunsets in the country. The water is calm and shallow for hundreds of metres out, which makes it good for swimming but indifferent for snorkelling.
Two large hotel complexes anchor the beach, but the sand is public and dotted with small bars and beach grills. Sundays bring families and live music. Get here by taxi-brousse or hired car from Hell-Ville (around 45 minutes).