Zanzibar beaches: discover the perfect spot for your vacation

Many travelers come to Tanzania for its world-famous safaris and the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. After days of adventure and exploration, though, many look to unwind, making the Zanzibar beach holidays the perfect choice. Visitors are drawn to the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, luxury hotels, and the range of water sports available, including snorkeling and kitesurfing.

This article provides a detailed selection of the best beaches in Zanzibar, catering to different preferences, from popular spots to those perfect for active or secluded getaways.

Top 3 most popular beaches in Zanzibar

Nungwi Beach

Nungwi Beach is located in the northern part of Unguja, the archipelago's main island. It is renowned as one of the most popular tourist destinations. The area bustles with bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood, featuring live music, and offering plenty of entertainment. Known for its white sandy shores and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Nungwi Beach also boasts breathtaking crimson sunsets.

One key advantage here is that the tides are barely noticeable. For instance, in the western part of the beach, the water recedes only about 25 meters (80 feet) during low tide. In contrast, the beaches of Chwaka and Charawe, which are less suitable for tourism, can see the water pull back as far as 1.5 to 2 kilometers (0.9 to 1.2 miles) at low tide.

Later in the article, we will explain why this happens and how to choose a beach based on the tide features. For now, it’s worth mentioning that Nungwi is also ideal for solo travelers looking to connect with others for activities. During the high season, this beach is bustling with visitors. Diving centers are nearby, and the coral reefs make Nungwi’s coastal waters an excellent spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Nearby Accommodation:

Nungwi Beach Resort by Turaco  

The resort is in a prime location, close to many tourist attractions. The hotel is known for its spacious, clean rooms, exquisite interior, and stunning Indian Ocean views. Plenty of restaurants are nearby, along with a beach bar and its renowned spa center. Some guests, however, have mentioned that the hotel's decor needs to be updated, and a few rooms could use some repairs.

The Z Hotel Zanzibar

The hotel is situated along a picturesque coastline, providing stunning views. The only drawback is that the rooms are quite small, and some guests feel the rates could be slightly more affordable. However, all guests consistently praise the impeccable cleanliness, comfortable ambiance, and friendly staff. Additionally, many visitors commend the on-site pool, high-quality sun loungers, and the hotel's convenient location.

Essque Zalu Zanzibar  

Tourists highlight the elegant, authentic design and live music in the evenings, which contribute to a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. They commend the high level of service provided by the attentive and courteous staff, the spacious rooms, and the impeccable cleanliness. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure that guests at Essque Zalu Zanzibar have the most enjoyable experiences.

Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach is often compared to Nungwi but offers a calmer and less crowded atmosphere. The two beaches connect during low tide, allowing visitors to stroll along the sand from one end to the other. Like Nungwi, Kendwa Beach is unaffected by strong tides that could disrupt your vacation. The water here is clean and crystal clear, making it an ideal spot for diving, snorkeling, or simply swimming in the warm rays of the African sun.

Kendwa Beach is also a popular hub for vibrant nightlife, known for its lively parties, restaurants, and bars. One of the most popular events is the Full Moon Party, which occurs monthly at the Kendwa Rocks Hotel.

Nearby Accommodation:

Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa  

Located on the oceanfront at Kendwa Beach, this hotel boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty and various nearby cultural activities. The complex features a luxurious pool, and guests often commend the high level of service and the clean, comfortable rooms. However, some reviews have noted dissatisfaction with the air conditioning systems.

Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel  

This hotel is about an hour’s drive from Zanzibar City and is next to Kendwa Beach. It's renowned for its stunning sunsets over the white sandy coastline, drawing many tourists yearly. The property features luxurious wooden bungalows with private jacuzzis, rooms designed in Arabian and African styles, coral bungalows, and more budget-friendly forest rooms. The hotel is surrounded by coconut palm trees and lush tropical gardens.

Bwejuu Beach

This stretch of soft white sand on the island's southeast coast is just a 90-minute drive from Stone Town on the west coast. Nestled among lush green palm trees and comfortably away from bustling tourist hotspots, this location is ideal for a tranquil and secluded escape.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy near the beach. You can stroll through the mangrove forests, visit the nearby village to immerse yourself in the local culture, or take a trip to Stone Town or Jozani Forest, which is home to many colobus monkeys.

Nearby Accommodation:

Baraza Resort and Spa Zanzibar  

This oceanfront resort features 30 comfortable villas designed in the style of the Omani sultans' era. The blend of Arabic, Swahili, and Indian design includes carved arches, white stone, antiques, and elegant handcrafted furniture. Guests can enjoy several restaurants, a modern spa center, and various activities for active leisure enthusiasts, including diving. The rate covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), along with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, access to a pool, and use of the tennis court.

The Palms

This boutique hotel offers a peaceful, all-inclusive retreat for complete relaxation. It features seven secluded villas, each measuring 140 m² (1,500 sq ft). Each villa includes a private bedroom, a walk-in closet, and a spacious bathroom. Special praise goes to the luxurious terrace, which offers a stunning view of the Indian Ocean. The hotel’s management provides personalized vacation planning services, from booking excursions and reserving spots at top restaurants to arranging spa sessions and providing transfers tailored to your preferences and wishes.

Breezes Beach Club & Spa

Widely regarded as Zanzibar's most romantic hotel, Breezes Beach Club & Spa offers a tranquil beachfront escape with picturesque gardens and a serene atmosphere. This family-owned and managed resort is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail, providing guests with a warm, personalized experience. The hotel features spacious rooms with large balconies offering stunning ocean views, though the décor might feel slightly dated to some.

Top 3 best beaches in Zanzibar for snorkeling and active leisure

Paje Beach

Paje Beach, located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar Island, is particularly popular with kitesurfing enthusiasts. It provides ideal sports conditions, featuring consistent winds and shallow waters along the shoreline.

Zanzibar has two tourist seasons: from January to February and from July to September. However, the best time for kitesurfing in Paje Beach is from June to October and from December to March. During these months, the wind blows consistently across the shore, creating ideal conditions that are particularly comfortable for beginners learning the sport.  

Additionally, this beach has a separate lagoon with crystal-clear, wave-free water that is home to unique coral formations. These corals attract a variety of colorful tropical fish, making it a dream destination for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Nearby Accommodation:

Kisiwa On The Beach

This boutique resort, comprising luxurious villas, is surrounded by vibrant, pristine nature. It is well-known among tourists for its impeccable service and stylish interiors of spacious, comfortable rooms. The property includes a pool, a lavish spa center, and convenient access to the beach.

Hakuna Majiwe Beach Lodge

Nestled among the palm trees on the south coast of Zanzibar, the Hakuna Majiwe Lodge features 21 villas, each with direct access to the beach. Inside, the villas have walk-in closets, handcrafted canopy beds, and spacious bathrooms. Additionally, Hakuna Majiwe Beach Lodge offers five luxurious family suites for comfortable family vacations. Special mention goes to the renowned restaurant Tradewinds, known for its exquisite cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa — Relais & Chateaux  

This five-star boutique resort is situated on the east coast, right on Paje Beach. The hotel complex is surrounded by tropical gardens and provides direct access to the Indian Ocean. Spanning nearly four hectares of lush coastal vegetation, the resort features 15 luxurious villas, each with its own pool and personal butler. Additionally, there are several restaurants and three bars on the property.

Jambiani Beach

This beach stretches along Zanzibar's south coast and is perfect for snorkeling. The tides here are noticeable but not disruptive.

Jambiani is a lively beach with numerous small restaurants, cafes, and stylish hotels nearby. There are also designated spots for scuba diving and kitesurfing. During low tide, "disappearing" islands emerge in the ocean just off the shore, adding to the beach's unique charm.

Nearby Accommodation:

Reef and Beach Resort

The resort, situated near mangrove forests, provides breathtaking ocean views. The buffet restaurant focuses on serving local cuisine. The hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms, each equipped with all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay. The vibrant atmosphere is enriched by cultural events and beautiful natural surroundings.

Pwani Mchangani Beach

The beach is located on the northeast coast of the island, just under 50 km (30 miles) from Stone Town. It is the perfect coastline for kitesurfing.

Despite the significant tides at the beach, there is a remarkable reef located about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from the shore, known locally as "the aquarium." During low tide, you can walk out to it and observe the vibrant marine life. A large crowd of people serves as the main landmark to help you find the spot.

In addition to exploring the reef, there are plenty of other activities available, including quad biking, off-roading, fishing, and scuba diving.

Nearby Accommodation:

Neptune Pwani Beach Resort & Spa  

The hotel is nestled amid lush tropical gardens and secluded beaches. The rooms are decorated in a traditional African style, adding a unique charm and atmosphere to your vacation. Guests often praise this place for its impeccable cleanliness, coziness, and exceptional service. The resort features 150 rooms, each with its own terrace and stunning ocean views. Additionally, there are four beachfront suites with jacuzzis, three restaurants, two bars, a spa salon, a boutique, a conference room, and all the amenities needed for water sports.

AHG Waridi Beach Resort & Spa  

This four-star resort is situated near one of the best beaches in Zanzibar. The hotel complex comprises several cozy bungalows, each designed to immerse guests in the indescribable atmosphere of wild Africa. Visitors consistently highlight the attentive service and warm hospitality. The hotel also features a pool, a spa center, and a gym equipped with exercise machines.

Top 3 best beaches in Zanzibar for a private getaway

Matemwe Beach

Matemwe Beach is situated on the northeastern coast of Zanzibar. It boasts white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a serene, meditative atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat away from the busy tourist areas and loud parties. The coral reefs in this area make it an ideal location for scuba diving, while the vibrant sunsets over the Indian Ocean create unforgettable memories. The tides here are more pronounced than in the northern part of the island, but they're still easy to handle.  

Tourists often describe Matemwe Beach as having miles of deserted beach, warm ocean waters, and abundant starfish, but few cafes are nearby.

Nearby Accommodation:

Zanzibar Queen Hotel  

Zanzibar Queen Hotel is a popular resort in Zanzibar, especially favored by diving enthusiasts due to its close proximity to Matemwe Beach. However, its convenient location is just one of its many advantages. The hotel offers exquisite cuisine, excellent service, and a unique atmosphere. With 31 double rooms and three luxurious bungalows by the ocean, it’s the perfect place for a honeymoon getaway in Zanzibar.

Next Paradise Boutique Resort  

This charming hotel is a tourist favorite, especially for its elegant room interiors, cozy and warm atmosphere, and tranquil setting. Nearby, you'll find all the necessary amenities for fishing, kitesurfing, diving, and snorkeling. The hotel features 25 rooms, each with modern interiors, quality furnishings, and new air conditioning units.

Mnemba Island

For an exclusive and luxurious escape, make your way to Mnemba, a private island off the east coast of Zanzibar. With its pristine sandy beaches, azure waters featuring turquoise tones, and stunning coral reefs, this location is a true tropical paradise. While there are few tourists here, the vibrant and captivating nature is abundant. You don't have to spend all day lounging on the beach but partake in snorkeling, kayaking, and even sailing.

Nearby Accommodation:

The Mora Zanzibar  

An exquisite atmosphere, tastefully furnished rooms, and a high level of service have made The Mora Zanzibar a popular choice among tourists looking to stay near Matemwe Beach. Situated in a tranquil area, the hotel is renowned for its spacious, comfortable rooms, inviting pools, and diverse dining options. For an additional fee, guests can access all the necessary equipment for water sports or unwind at the spa center.

Pemba

One of the most beautiful and still secluded islands in the archipelago, Pemba is the perfect destination for a tranquil getaway away from noisy beach parties and large crowds of tourists.

In terms of size, Pemba is less than half the area of Zanzibar, and it can only be accessed by ferry or local airline flights from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and a few other tourist towns in the country. The ferry to the island runs only twice a week and takes about five hours. Flying is much faster and more convenient: the flight from Zanzibar Island to Pemba takes around 30 minutes.

Most of the island is covered in dense jungles, and the main civilized center is a small town called Chake Chake. There are only a handful of hotels on Pemba. Many locals still wear traditional clothing and primarily speak Swahili.

Nearby Accommodation: 

The Aiyana Resort & Spa

The ideal place to stay on Pemba Island is at the villas of The Aiyana Resort & Spa. These cozy, comfortable cottages are situated in some of the most picturesque spots on the island, and the on-site restaurant serves dishes made from the freshest ingredients. Guests often mention the excellent service, friendly staff, and top-notch spa services. However, there is one caveat: be prepared for the possibility of weak Wi-Fi in certain areas of the island, regardless of where you stay.

Tides on Zanzibar beaches

Tides are crucial and can greatly affect your Zanzibar beach holiday experience. Knowing which beaches experience significant water withdrawal during low tide and which have minimal differences is essential.

For example, the difference during low tide is nearly invisible on the northern beaches. Moderate tides are also common along the east coast. In contrast, the most significant withdrawal of coastal waters occurs in Chwaka Bay, making it less ideal for beachgoers.

Tides are caused by the moon's gravitational pull on the surface of the world's oceans. The highest tides occur during the new and full moon when the sun's influence enhances the moon's gravitational force. The time difference between the lowest points of the water level is approximately 12 hours, meaning that about six hours pass between high and low tides. Over 24 hours, there are typically two low tides and two high tides.

During your stay in Zanzibar, it's advisable to plan each day around the tide schedule. Some websites and apps allow you to track the current water levels and check the schedule for changes at different times. Here are some helpful online resources that provide up-to-date information:

• Tidetime.org
• Tide-forecast.com
• Tideschart.com

Please note that the timing of each tide shifts forward by 50 minutes each day. This change is due to the Earth's daily rotation around the sun and the moon's complete orbit around the Earth. For instance, if the tide occurs at 9 AM today, it will take place at 9:50 AM tomorrow and at 10:40 AM the following day, and so forth.

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