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Zanzibar's coastline stretches over 340 km and encompasses some of the Indian Ocean's finest beaches — powder-white sand, turquoise waters and swaying palms. Choosing where to stay depends on what you want from your time on the island. Here's our guide.
The most popular northern beaches offer the advantage of swimming at all tides — unlike many eastern beaches which empty at low tide. Nungwi is lively with restaurants and bars; Kendwa is quieter and more romantic. Excellent snorkelling and the famous Kendwa Rocks full-moon parties.
The east coast is the kitesurfing capital of East Africa. Paje gets consistent wind from June–March. At high tide, the coral lagoon offers calm turquoise swimming; at low tide the sand flats stretch for hundreds of metres. Popular with younger travellers and digital nomads.
Matemwe is one of Zanzibar's most beautiful and least developed beaches — ideal for those seeking peace. The coral reef offshore, and the private Mnemba Island (just offshore), offer world-class snorkelling and diving. Turtle nesting happens on Matemwe beaches.
A quiet fishing village with one of Zanzibar's most photogenic stretches of coastline. Very few tourists, authentic Swahili culture and long empty beach walks. Best combined with a seaweed farm visit and local village tour.
Most of Zanzibar's beaches, particularly on the east and southeast coasts, have significant tidal variation — up to 3 metres. At low tide, large areas of seagrass and coral rock are exposed. Check tide tables for your preferred beach before booking, especially if you plan to swim rather than kitsurf or dive.
We arrange Zanzibar beach extensions at the end of all Tanzania safari itineraries. Transfers, accommodation and excursions all arranged from Moshi.
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