Zalala Beach lies about 30 kilometres east of Quelimane along a dirt road that passes through coconut plantations and small farming villages. The beach itself stretches for approximately 7 kilometres and is backed by a dense stand of palm trees that provides shade even at midday. Swimming is generally safe in calm conditions, though local advice should be sought regarding currents. The water is warm year-round.
On weekdays the beach is almost entirely deserted except for local fishing families who pull in dugout canoes loaded with the morning's catch. On weekends, particularly in the dry season from April to November, Quelimane residents drive out in numbers for beach picnics and the atmosphere becomes more festive. There is a basic rest camp at the beach — the Zalala Beach Resort — with simple bungalows, a restaurant, and camping facilities, making an overnight stay possible. The surrounding coconut plantation is said to be one of the largest in the world, covering vast tracts of the coastal plain between the city and the sea.