Beaches in Zanzibar

Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar's Nungwi village is famous for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. This makes Nungwi a major spot for water activities like swimming, diving, and snorkelling, with plenty of dive shops to explore. Local folks offer charming sunset cruises on traditional Dhow boats, and the beach comes alive at night with a lively atmosphere.

Activities: Swimming, diving, and snorkelling

Kendwa Beach, situated on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, tranquil waters, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can engage in various water sports and beach activities, especially snorkelling and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters. The beach is also famous for the vibrant Full Moon Parties hosted by Kendwa Rocks, lasting throughout the night of the full moon.

Activities: Snorkeling, diving, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing

Nakupenda Beach, also known as Zanzibar Sandbank or Nakupenda Island, is a stunning sandbank in the Zanzibar archipelago, just a 15-minute boat ride from Stone Town Harbour. It's celebrated for its beautiful sandbanks, vibrant birdlife, and crystal-clear waters, making it a favourite for beach lovers and romantic couples. The Swahili name "Nakupenda" means "I love you," adding a romantic touch to this picturesque destination.

Timings : 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Time Required: 3 hours
Best Time to Visit: Early morning 07:00 AM to 08:30 AM (Afternoon is crowded and the island sinks in the evening)
Combine With: Prison Island
Special Needs Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

Paje Beach on Zanzibar's east coast is famous for its beautiful scenery and exciting water sports. Known as Zanzibar's kitesurfing hub, Paje Beach also provides chances for scuba diving with turtles and a diverse range of colourful fish. The beach boasts white sand and turquoise waters, offering a picturesque backdrop for both daytime activities and lively nightlife.

Length: 20 kilometres
Activities: Kitesurfing and scuba diving

Mtende Beach, situated on Zanzibar's southeast coast, is a quiet and warm rocky beach surrounded by ancient trees. Positioned in a big cove between two big rock formations, it's a great spot to watch the tides change, with white sand and emerald-green water perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can enjoy a swing on the rocks and explore natural tide pools with fish and crabs.

Entrance Fee: 2,000 Tanzanian Shillings (approximately $1) per person
Mobile Network: No network coverage
Restaurants on Beach: Eden Rock & Usumba Rock Restaurant
Wheelchair Accessibility: No. A lot of stairs around the rocks.

Jambiani Beach in Zanzibar is a relaxed and picturesque destination located in the old fishing village of Jambiani. Its soft white sand, coconut trees, clear waters, and unique coral rocks make it perfect for a laidback beach retreat. The locals embrace a slow-paced life, known as the "pole pole," and rely on fishing and seaweed farming for their livelihoods.

Length: 7 kilometres
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, dolphin tours, kiteboarding, kayaking, reef walks, dhow boat trips, and fishing
Facilities: Restrooms available
Wheelchair Accessibility: Yes

Muyuni Beach, a small and private haven in Matemwe, Zanzibar, is close to the village of Matemwe and surrounded by a protective coral reef. Known for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, this unspoiled beach offers a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds.

Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, beachcombing, boat rides, watching fishermen
Parking: Paid parking available. Parking for rental cars is free.

Pongwe Beach, located on the east coast of Zanzibar between Kiwengwa Beach and Uroa, is known for its pristine beaches, calm atmosphere, and budget-friendly accommodations. It's less crowded than other popular beaches in Zanzibar. Pongwe is ideal for a quiet, secluded, and relaxed beach vacation. It offers activities like swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.

Activities: Waterskiing, scuba diving, dolphin watching, fishing trips, bike tours, and dhow sailing.

Kiwengwa Beach, located on Zanzibar's northeast coast, is known for its long, sandy shores and clear turquoise waters. Palm trees surround the area, creating a peaceful setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Kiwengwa's charm lies in its dynamic nature, as the beach goes through constant changes during high and low tide, shrinking and expanding by up to 200 meters.

Activities: Kiteboarding, snorkeling, dolphin excursions, Jozani Forest exploration, and sunset cruises
Wheelchair Accessibility: Available

Kizimkazi Beach is situated in a quiet fishing village of Kizimkazi, also known as Kizimkazi Mkunguni and Kizimkazi Mtendeni, on Zanzibar's southern coast. It's a popular place for Dolphin tours and snorkelling, offering a chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The beach is a peaceful spot with the highest tide in Zanzibar, making it good for swimming.

Activities: Dolphin watching, boat tours, snorkelling, diving, visit the historic Kizimkazi Mosque, explore the Dimbani Caves, fishing charters, eco tours, and safaris

Matemwe Beach in Zanzibar's northeast is the longest beach, known for its calm and friendly vibe. The white sand beaches and turquoise clear water are perfect for relaxing, and the area is famous for its stunning coral reefs, making it great for snorkelling and scuba diving. Matemwe is also the starting point for exploring the Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine area.

Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, diving, and dolphin watching

Bwejuu Beach, located on Zanzibar's southeast coast, is a peaceful retreat known for its white sands, palm trees, and calm turquoise waters. It's a quiet spot, perfect for those seeking relaxation and privacy. While it's one of the best beaches for swimming, keep in mind that low tide makes swimming impossible.

Activities: Swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing, visiting local seaweed farms, fishing, sailing, sea diving, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and paddleboarding