The Best Beaches in Zanzibar

Unguja, also known as Zanzibar, is an island off the coast of Tanzania, famous not only for its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals, but also for offering some of the best beaches in the Zanzibar Archipelago. These tropical shores, with their stunning beauty, might just make you reconsider your return ticket.

This magical island, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is adorned with crystal clear turquoise water and white powdery sand, and you’ll soon see why: Google wasn’t lying to you! Zanzibar offers the perfect blend of tourism and local life, and you’ll get the chance to interact with Zanzibari’s, taste the delicious Swahili cuisine, while engaging in exciting activities.

Whether you are looking for romance, adventure or tranquility, Zanzibar has it all. This makes it the perfect destination to relax after your safari or mountain hike. In today’s blog, we will tell you where to find the best beaches in Zanzibar, including our secret tips to make your trip unforgettable.

How does the tide affect your beach experience on Zanzibar?

One thing to keep in mind when planning your stay in Zanzibar, and your activities, is the island’s varying tidal patterns, as those can impact what you plan to do. Nungwi and Kendwa beaches, for example, experience minimal tidal changes, which makes them perfect for swimming and water activities.

Paje, Jambiani and Matemwe beaches, on the other hand, have significant tidal variations due to their shallow shorelines. At low tide, the water recedes, exposing large areas of the seabed. This is what makes Paje, Jambiani and Matemwe Beach perfect for kite surfing and beachcombing, but less ideal for swimming at low tide. At high tide, however, these beaches are just as beautiful for swimming and snorkeling.

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Our Top 6 Selection: The Best Beaches in Zanzibar

Here are our top 6 of the best beaches in Zanzibar:

Nungwi Beach

Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi Beach is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. What was once a sleepy fishing village has become one of the most popular beaches on the island, where you can experience both: sunrise and sunset. A truly unique way to experience either is to take a dhow boat ride as the sky is painted in stunning colors.

Nungwi is perfect for swimming and snorkeling and offers some of the best underwater experiences in Zanzibar. It is also known for its nightlife and its various beach bars as well as restaurants. But Nungwi is so much more than that: apart from the beach, and nightlife, you can also experience the local fishing village or visit nearby attractions such as the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond to learn about and interact with rescued sea turtles.

Our insider tip: Visit the beachside restaurant, “Baraka Beach Bungalows,” in the early evening to enjoy deliciously fresh seafood in a quiet, intimate setting perfect for watching the sunset away from the crowds.

Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach lies just a short distance southwest of Nungwi in the North West of Zanzibar. Kendwa offers wide sandy shores and calm, shallow waters, which makes it a favorite beach destination among families and those seeking a peaceful time out. Kendwa not only has stunning sunsets, but also minimal tidal changes, which creates excellent conditions for swimming and sunbathing at any time of the day.

The beach is also famous for its full moon parties that take place once per month, attracting tourists from around the world for music, and dancing under the stars. With a relaxed atmosphere, various accommodation options, and water activities like diving and dhow cruises, Kendwa offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure, making it one of the best beaches in Zanzibar.

Paje Beach

Paje Beach is located on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar. Known for its long stretch of powdery white sand, Paje offers a stunning and expansive beachfront perfect for watching the sunrise, and a variety of activities. It is one of the busier areas where you’ll never run out of things to do or people to meet, as there are plenty of restaurants, cafés and resorts.

However, you can still experience the village life that will make your visit a truly beautiful experience, like watching the cows gather around the village roundabout at night. Paje is considered the best beach in Zanzibar for kite surfing. You can either admire the instructors doing their cool tricks or join them when the wind is right. The various kite schools cater for all levels. At low tide, the water goes back considerably, exposing large areas of the seabed and allowing long meditative walks out to the coral reef.

Away from the beach, you can explore the nearby Jozani Forest, home to the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey and other unique wildlife. Paje’s combination of natural beauty and adventure activities make it a popular destination for active travelers and nature lovers.

Our insider tip: Visit the “Kae Funk Sunset Beach Bar” in Michamvi for a beautiful sunset accompanied by live music and fruity cocktails.

Jambiani Beach

Jambiani Beach is located on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar, not far from Paje, and really gives you that “remote” feeling. Known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to let your mind wander. Jambiani’s long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters makes is perfect for kite surfing, snorkeling, stand-up paddle or swimming.

The beach, partially decorated with mystical coral, can make you feel like time has stood still. Similar to Paje Beach, Jambiani Beach offers beautiful low tide walks on its vast seabed. It is also a great place to experience local life, either on the beach or by immersing yourself in the local culture when you visit markets, spice farms or by wandering around the village.

We can only recommend experiencing Jambiani’s combination of natural beauty and cultural richness, if you are looking for a truly unique experience.

Our insider tip: Visit the “Red Monkey Lodge” on a Sunday night for live music with amazing local artists, and a delicious seafood buffet.

Matemwe Beach

Matemwe Beach is located on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, and home to several luxury resorts and spa retreats, making it the perfect place to relax, and unwind. Known for its serene and less crowded environment, Matemwe offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

The beach shows off with fine white sand, and clear, shallow waters, making it perfect for leisurely beach walks. The sunsets are beautiful here, and during a sunset cruise you can experience breathtaking views as the sun dips below the Indian Ocean.

Our insider tip: Matemwe Beach is the starting point to experience one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Zanzibar: the Mnemba Atoll. Snorkeling around Mnemba is one of the best things we can recommend you to do in Zanzibar. Mnemba’s tranquility and colors are unmatched to anything you’ve ever experienced before.

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Stone Town Beach

Stone Town Beach, located on the West Coast of Zanzibar in the heart of historic Stone Town, reflects the rich cultural diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beach area is a lively stretch where locals and visitors alike gather, especially at sunset, to swim, play football, or simply relax as the sun paints the water a brilliant orange.

While Stone Town Beach itself may be limited in terms of traditional sandy beachfront, it offers unique activities that capture Zanzibar’s cultural blend, such as evening strolls near Forodhani Gardens, known for its vibrant night market with Zanzibari street food.

Visitors can enjoy exploring the Sultan’s Palace and the Old Fort nearby, while historical tours provide insights into Stone Town’s Swahili, Arab, and European influences. Local markets offer a chance to pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs, giving visitors a well-rounded experience that combines Zanzibar’s storied past with the lively present-day culture.

Our insider tip: Grab a “Zanzibar pizza” at the Forodhani Night Market and watch the famous “Makachu Jumpers” perform their unique leaps in the early evening.

Which beach in Zanzibar is best for families?

We can help you plan your perfect family vacation in Zanzibar: if you are wondering where to stay with your loved and little ones, we can recommend either Nungwi or Kendwa Beach. Those beaches are known for their calm, shallow waters, which allows safe swimming and makes them fun for children of all ages.

Nungwi offers many family-friendly activities like snorkeling, visits to the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, or exploring the vibrant local culture. Kendwa, with its wide sandy shores and relaxed atmosphere, is perfect for building sandcastles and playing beach games.

There are many beautiful accommodation options in Nungwi and Kendwa that cater specifically to families. Your stay will surely be comfortable, enjoyable, and unforgettable. The mix of beautiful scenery, safe swimming conditions, and a range of activities make Nungwi and Kendwa the best beaches for your family vacation in Zanzibar.

Which are the best beaches in Zanzibar for romance?

There’s no doubt that Zanzibar is the ultimate destination for your romantic getaway, and it’s no surprise that it’s an up-and-coming honeymoon island. For us, the most romantic beach of Zanzibar is Matemwe Beach, with its private resorts that provide the perfect setting for romance.

Private villas, couples massages and candlelight dinners overlooking the Indian Ocean will make your trip truly unique. Known for its tranquil and less crowded atmosphere, Matemwe is the ideal place for intimate walks along the powdery white sandy beaches, where you will create unforgettable moments together.

If you are looking for the ultimate remote experience, our secret tip is Makunduchi, located in the South of Zanzibar. This fishing village is still unknown to the average traveler, but offers a breathtaking beachfront and a relaxed atmosphere that will guarantee instant peace. Makunduchi will surely allow you to spend a special time with your loved one away from the crowds.

Which beach in Zanzibar is best for water sport activities?

If you are water sports enthusiast, Zanzibar is the right place for you. Paje Beach is very popular among kite and wind surfers thanks to its consistent winds and shallow waters, and you can be sure to meet a great community of surfers here. Matemwe Beach is the place to be for those who are into diving and snorkeling, as it’s close to the stunning Mnemba Atoll, where coral reefs and diverse marine life create an incredible underwater paradise.

We can also recommend Kendwa and Nungwi beaches for snorkeling and diving, as the water is calm, and the marine life rich. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, these beaches cater for different skill levels, and interests.

Another unforgettable experience is going on a “blue safari” – the perfect addition to the wildlife safari you may have done before coming to Zanzibar. You won’t see lions or elephants here, but dolphins and other marine life while enjoying a delicious Swahili seafood buffet.

Best beaches in Zanzibar: Summary

The beaches of Zanzibar are unlike any you have experienced before, and their natural beauty guarantees an unforgettable experience. From the serene shores of Nungwi and Kendwa in the North, perfect for family-friendly relaxation and water sports, to the adventurous kite surfing haven of Paje in the Southeast, there’s something for everyone.

Matemwe offers secluded luxury and world-class diving near Mnemba Atoll, while Jambiani promises cultural immersion and stunning sunrises. Stone Town’s urban beaches, combine history with seaside relaxation. Whether you are looking for romance, adventure or cultural exploration, Zanzibar’s beaches have it all.

At Tanzania-Experience, we are experts when it comes to planning your perfect Zanzibar beach vacation combined with a wildlife safari or Kilimanjaro climb – contact us today, and we will help you make your dream trip become reality!