Top Zanzibar Beaches: A Comprehensive Guide

This travel guide by Kyle Browning from Survival Footprint outlines all you need to know about the best beaches in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Zanzibar has more than 25 beautiful, white, palm-fringed beaches; the sea is warm, and the atmosphere is easy.

Zanzibar lies approximately 25–50 kilometers (16–31 miles) off the coast of mainland Tanzania. The Zanzibar archipelago consists of many small islands, including two large ones, Pemba Island & Unguja, the latter being referred to informally as Zanzibar.

Table of Contents

11 Best Zanzibar Beaches

This guide is the most comprehensive resource on the best beaches in Zanzibar – perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and soaking up the African sun.

Paje Beach – Kitesurfers Dream

If you are into kitesurfing, Paje Beach is undoubtedly the best beach in Zanzibar for you! Located on the Southeast coast, this beach sits right between Bwejuu and Jambiani village.

The lagoon is especially popular for beginner kitesurfers, as the reef shields the lagoon from waves. Moreover, Paje benefits from a consistent side-onshore wind that blows throughout the year.

Furthermore, clear, warm waters are populated with a vibrant array of starfish, turtles, trumpet fish, and moray eels, making Paje beach one of the top scuba diving destinations in Zanzibar. Currently, Paje beach retains a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, often overlooked by tourists who prefer the busier northern beaches.

Suggested Zanzibar Hotel on Paje Beach

• Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is an eco-luxury resort offering high-end amenities and an impressive water sports center.
• Cristal Resort – A more budget-friendly resort on Paje Beach for under $100 USD.

Nungwi Beach – Dhow Tours and Sunsets

Nungwi beach is a long-standing favorite among adventurous backpackers and free spirits. In fact, it was listed among TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Beaches in the World in 2018. Over the years, Nungwi has transformed from a quiet fishing village into a bustling shoreline filled with hotels, bars, hostels, and dive centers.

Additionally, the beach serves as a focal point for Zanzibar shipbuilding. Talented shipwrights employ age-old methods to convert reclaimed timber into seaworthy vessels. Village tours are available for those interested in the rich culture of Nungwi village and the ongoing tradition of dhow building.

Where to Stay in Nungwi

• The Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort – A luxury property featuring an infinity pool, fitness center, and spa, located right on the beach.
• Rui Palace Zanzibar – A reliable choice for an all-inclusive vacation where you can simply relax on the beach.
• Ras Nungwi – A well-known Zanzibar hotel currently undergoing renovations after a fire.

Jambiani Beach – Seaweed Solitude

For those who prefer less crowded beaches, Jambiani is a gem. This beach boasts miles of fine, white sand. It would take a considerable number of tourists to fill this tranquil slice of paradise.

With no swimming pools, casinos, disco, bars, and only sporadic electricity through a few guesthouses, Jambiani offers a quiet retreat.

Local fishing takes place not for commercial gain, but to sustain the community. However, due to the reef’s location about a mile out, wave turbulence results in lots of seaweed washing up on the beach during low tide.

Here you can witness locals harvesting seaweed to dry and sell to exporters, primarily for nutritional use in products like sushi.

Suggested Jambiani Beach Hotel

• Red Monkey Lodge – A medium-sized beach lodge that combines relaxed backpacker vibes with 14 lovely rooms. The Monday jam sessions at this lodge can be quite lively.

Kiwengwa Beach – Little Italy

Kiwengwa beach is often called Little Italy due to the abundance of Italian hotels along the beachfront. The tide has a significant impact here; during low tide, Kiwengwa beach is ideal for long walks across its soft, talcum powder-like sand.

However, remain vigilant, as sea urchins can wash up on the beach. For snorkeling enthusiasts, boat trips to the reef reveal stunning sea stars.

Suggested Kiwengwa Beach Hotels

• Melia Zanzibar – A luxurious resort with top-tier amenities.
• Kiwengwa Bungalow Boutique Resort – Upscale accommodation featuring quiet bungalows with a private beach.

Matemwe Beach – Relaxation & Local Culture

For a laid-back atmosphere, Matemwe is one of the best beaches in Zanzibar. If entertainment and numerous activities are not your goal, Matemwe is perfect for lounging with a drink in hand.

Note that swimming can be tricky depending on the season. The beach is more susceptible to low tide compared to others on the island.

During low tide, seaweed and sea urchins can obstruct your way, so wearing shoes is advisable. Be mindful of the biodiversity; many species depend on these urchins.

For activities, consider a snorkeling trip to Mnemba island or visit Prison Island to see the Giant tortoises. Alternatively, spice tours on the mainland provide insight into the local agricultural heritage.

Recommended Beach Hotel in Matemwe

• Matemwe Lodge – An upscale lodge overlooking a coral lagoon and Mnemba island; ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts.

Pingwe Beach – One of a Kind Restaurant

Pingwe beach is a hidden treasure, situated far from the crowded tourist areas. The lack of amenities makes it a preferred choice for those seeking tranquility.

Moreover, Pingwe beach offers opportunities for kitesurfing and snorkeling. Notably, The Rock restaurant deserves special mention for its unique setting.

Where to Stay in Pingwe Beach

• The Rock restaurant, built atop a small coral outcrop, offers fresh seafood daily. However, accessibility depends on the tide.
• Baladin Zanzibar Beach Hotel – An upscale boutique hotel with an infinity pool, yoga classes, and spa.

Bwejuu Beach – Mangrove Forest Safari

Bwejuu beach is often cited as one of the best beaches in Zanzibar, located on the southeast coast. Lined with picturesque palm trees, it is just 30 minutes from Stone Town.

This tranquil beach is perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation. Moreover, numerous activities are nearby — consider exploring the mangrove forest via a dhow boat trip or visiting the local Bwejuu village.

We recommend a day trip to Jozani Forest, where you can spot unique wildlife such as Zanzibar Sykes’ monkeys and the rare red colobus monkeys.

Suggested Beach Resorts on Bwejuu Beach

• Baraza Resort and Spa – An upscale all-inclusive resort with comprehensive amenities.
• Mustapha’s Place – A unique retreat adorned with local bougainvillea and frangipani, with rooms that reflect the local culture.

Kizimkazi Mtendeni – Dolphin Sightings

The beaches in this region of Zanzibar are characterized by small coves rather than expansive stretches of white sand. Here, you can experience authentic Zanzibar with fewer accommodation options.

A popular activity at Kizimkazi Beach is the dolphin safari; however, participation should be approached with caution. Dolphin tourism aids local economies and helps reduce hunting practices.

Check out this Ethical Dolphin Tour offered by the African Impact Dolphin & Marine Conservation Project. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to choose responsible tours to protect these gentle creatures.

Pongwe Beach – Swimming & Snorkeling

Pongwe Beach stands out as one of the best beaches in Zanzibar for swimming! The tranquil beach is adorned with palm trees and lush greenery — perfect for hanging a hammock!

An offshore reef shelters Pongwe beach, resulting in calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Recommended Hotels

• The Island Pongwe Lodge – A luxurious retreat built on a natural coral rock.
• Seasons Lodge Zanzibar – A budget-friendly option with a pool, massages, and breakfast included.

Dongwe Beach – Dhow Anchorage

This beach experiences longer low tide cycles compared to many other Zanzibar locations. Be aware that many fishermen anchor their dhows here, which might affect your swimming plans. Consequently, Pongwe beach is the better choice for a swim.

If you are fascinated by local fishing culture and traditional boats, this beach is the place to be.

Where to Stay

• Xanadu Luxury Villas – A top-tier all-inclusive experience featuring only seven villas, each with a dedicated butler and private plunge pools.
• Sands Beach Resort – A stylish and affordable hotel with a pool and spa, located just 10 minutes from the beach.

Kendwa Beach – Full Moon Parties

Frequently described as the little sister of Nungwi, Kendwa beach is quieter but no less picturesque. Notably, the tide does not fluctuate significantly here, allowing you to enjoy the crystal-clear waters throughout the day.

During low tide, you might spot beautiful starfish resting in the turquoise waters. Remember to observe them respectfully. Feel free to enjoy a refreshment while taking in the acclaimed sunsets that Kendwa beach offers.

Each full moon brings a bustling beach party, attracting visitors from around the island. If tranquility is what you seek, consider visiting another time.

Zanzibar Beach Hotels on Kendwa

Rui Palace Zanzibar – A great option if you’re in search of an all-inclusive beach vacation.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar & Its Beaches

Zanzibar enjoys a warm climate year-round due to its equatorial location. While temperatures remain fairly constant, rainfall varies with the seasons.

June to October marks the dry season, offering excellent weather for a visit. However, this period is also high season, meaning hotel prices tend to rise.

Late November to December usually brings light rains but remains a favorable time to travel, albeit during the hotter months. Expect higher prices around Christmas and New Year.

January to Early March provides another good interval of weather. We visited in March with consistently hot, dry days. However, mid-March can mark the beginning of the rainy season.

Late March to May is generally the rainy season. Since this time falls outside peak season, you may find attractive deals for accommodations.

Best Eco-Friendly Places to Stay in Zanzibar

Chumbe Island offers beautifully crafted eco-bungalows with innovative rainwater filtration systems and eco-friendly compost toilets.

The earnings from these seven bungalows support educational initiatives, providing 40 trips per year for local school kids. Prices include meals, boat transfers, and activities. $588/per night – Double Room. View Reviews and availability on TripAdvisor

For details about Responsible Tourism in Zanzibar, visit RTTZ.org

Local Language in Zanzibar

• Three official languages are spoken in Zanzibar:
  • Swahili
  • Arabic
  • English

Zanzibar is a tropical paradise, and visiting its stunning beaches promises an unforgettable vacation. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your adventure to Africa!