Zanzibar is famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, but it's not all about daytime activities. The island has a lively and diverse nightlife scene, offering a unique and exciting experience. Whether you're into beachfront parties, traditional Zanzibari experiences, or something in between, there's something for everyone to enjoy after the sun sets. In this article, we'll check out the top nightlife spots in Zanzibar, so you can make the most of your evenings on this beautiful island.
5 Popular Areas for Zanzibar’s Nightlife
1. Stone Town
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In the heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town is known for its lively nightlife. When the sun goes down, this historic city comes alive. The streets turn into a hub of evening entertainment, offering open-air food stalls, local music, and traditional dance performances. Stone Town's atmosphere combines mystery and rich culture, making it a unique spot for nightlife in Zanzibar.
Best Spots for Nightlife in Stone Town
6 Degrees South: Nestled in the heart of Stone Town, 6 Degrees South is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. This lively rooftop bar offers a stunning view of the Indian Ocean. With its relaxed atmosphere, it's an ideal place to unwind with a cocktail and enjoy live music. Location: 236 Hurumzi Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Dharma Lounge: Dharma Lounge is a trendy establishment in the heart of Stone Town. It's celebrated for its fusion of Zanzibari and international cuisine, making it a fantastic spot for foodies. The lounge features live music and themed parties, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Location: Mizingani Road, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Garage Club: Garage Club is a vibrant nightclub situated in the bustling heart of Stone Town. This is the place to be for those seeking a lively and energetic nightlife. With its pulsating music, extensive drink selection, and international DJ performances, the Garage Club ensures a night of endless fun. Location: Hurumzi Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Africa House Hotel: Located on the seafront, Africa House Hotel is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views. The hotel's Sunset Bar is a prime spot for enjoying drinks, local music, and watching the sun dip below the horizon. The tranquil atmosphere and sea breeze make it a must-visit for a relaxing evening. Location: Shangani Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
Forodhani Gardens: Forodhani Gardens is a vibrant night market along the Stone Town seafront. It's famous for its seafood and local street food stalls. The night market comes alive after sunset and is a great place to experience authentic Zanzibari flavors in a casual and bustling setting. Location: Mizingani Road, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
2. Nungwi Beach
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At the northern tip of Zanzibar, you'll find Nungwi Beach, where the nightlife is in full swing by the ocean. It's famous for its lively beachfront parties, including Full Moon Parties with music, fire dancers, and vibrant beachfront bars that keep the celebration going until the early hours. Nungwi Beach's nightlife is all about having a good time and welcoming people from all over the world.
Best Spots for Nightlife in Nungwi Beach
Gerry's Bar: Gerry's Bar, situated on the pristine shores of Nungwi Beach, is a renowned spot for travelers seeking a relaxed and beachfront nightlife. With a serene ambiance and a selection of refreshing cocktails, it's the perfect place to unwind while gazing at the ocean. Live music and bonfire nights are common here, creating a soothing and enjoyable atmosphere.
Cholo's Disco Bar: Cholo's Disco Bar at Nungwi Beach offers a lively and energetic nightlife experience. It's a vibrant open-air establishment known for its pulsating music, dance floor, and theme parties. Here, you can dance the night away under the starry Zanzibari sky.
Coccobello: Nestled on Nungwi Beach, Coccobello is a charming beachfront bar and restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere. It's perfect for travelers who prefer a more tranquil evening by the sea. The bar is celebrated for its creative cocktails and fresh seafood. With ambient music and beachfront dining, it offers a peaceful and romantic setting.
Mercury's Bar: Mercury's Bar, named in honor of the legendary Freddie Mercury, provides a vibrant and music-filled nightlife scene. Situated at Nungwi Beach, this bar is known for its live music performances, beachfront parties, and cocktails. With a lively and energetic atmosphere, it's the place to dance the night away.
Che Rock Bar & Restaurant: As the only rock bar in Zanzibar, Che Rock Bar & Restaurant stands out along Nungwi Beach. Its beachfront location makes it a picturesque spot for cocktails and sunset views. The bar offers a variety of drinks and hosts themed parties, creating a memorable beachside nightlife experience.
3. Kendwa Beach
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Just next to Nungwi Beach in the north, Kendwa Beach offers a quieter but charming beachfront nightlife. Here, you'll find a serene and romantic atmosphere with candle-lit dinners, acoustic music, and themed parties by the sea, setting it apart from the livelier Nungwi nightlife.
Best Spot for Nightlife in Kendwa Beach
Kendwa Rocks Beach Resort: Situated at Kendwa Beach in northern Zanzibar, Kendwa Rocks Beach Resort is the place to be for lively nightlife. This resort hosts Full Moon Parties with music, fire dancers, and beachfront bars that keep the party going into the early hours. If you're looking for a vibrant and celebratory nightlife, this is the spot.
4. Paje Beach
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In the southeast, Paje Beach is gaining popularity as a nightlife spot. Paje Beach offers a laid-back beachfront experience with mellow beach bars, live music, and the soothing sound of the ocean. It's a peaceful alternative to the busier nightlife spots on the island.
Best Spot for Nightlife in Paje Beach
Paje by Night: Located along the southeastern coast of Zanzibar at Paje Beach, Paje by Night offers a relaxed beachfront nightlife experience. This spot is known for its laid-back beach bars, live music, and the soothing sounds of the ocean. If you prefer a peaceful and mellow atmosphere for your evening entertainment, Paje by Night is a perfect choice.
5. Jambiani
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Located along the southeast coast, Jambiani offers a peaceful and traditional Zanzibari nightlife experience. It features cozy beachfront restaurants, seaside lounges, and occasional live music. Jambiani's nightlife reflects the authentic and laid-back Zanzibari way of life, perfect for a relaxing evening.
Best Spot for Nightlife in Jambiani
1. Red Monkey Beach Lodge: Found in the peaceful village of Jambiani along Zanzibar's southeast coast, Red Monkey Beach Lodge provides a quiet and traditional Zanzibari nightlife. Enjoy cozy beachfront restaurants, laid-back lounges by the sea, and occasional live music. Red Monkey Beach Lodge offers an authentic and relaxed evening in the traditional Zanzibari style.
Dress Code: Zanzibar is generally a laid-back destination, but it's essential to dress appropriately when visiting nightlife spots. Many venues have a casual dress code, but you might want to dress up a bit when attending upscale beach clubs or restaurants.
Respect Local Customs: Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island, so it's essential to respect local customs and dress modestly when outside of the beach areas. Beachwear is acceptable at the beach, but covering up when leaving the beach is appreciated.
Local Drinks: Enjoy local drinks and cocktails made from fresh tropical fruits. Zanzibar is famous for its spices, and these flavors often find their way into the island's beverages. Don't miss the chance to try fresh sugarcane juice, coconut water, or spiced cocktails.
Safety: Stay safe during Zanzibar's nightlife by going with friends, drinking responsibly, choosing licensed venues, and keeping an eye on your belongings, and seek local advice, all while being mindful of your surroundings and having emergency contacts at hand.
Local Music and Dance: Zanzibar has a vibrant music and dance scene. Look out for venues offering live traditional Taarab music or modern Bongo Flava and reggae. Don't be shy to join the locals on the dance floor; it's a great way to experience the island's culture.
Café Culture: Zanzibar has a thriving café culture. Start your evening with a coffee or tea at one of the many cafes in Stone Town to soak in the local atmosphere before heading out for the night.
Plan Ahead: Many nightlife spots in Zanzibar don't open until later in the evening. Plan your evening accordingly and expect the nightlife to continue well into the early hours of the morning.
Respect the Environment: Zanzibar's natural beauty is its primary attraction. Please respect the environment by not leaving any litter behind, especially on the beaches.
Transportation: Arrange for transportation back to your accommodation before heading out for the night. Taxis are readily available in popular areas.
Explore Different Areas: Don't limit yourself to one area. Zanzibar offers diverse nightlife experiences, from the historic streets of Stone Town to beachfront parties in Nungwi and Kendwa. Explore different areas to get a taste of the island's varied nightlife.
Zanzibar's nightlife is a captivating experience that adds a unique layer to your island adventure. With warm tropical breezes, starlit skies, and the sounds of the Indian Ocean as your backdrop, it's an experience that's hard to forget. So, if you're seeking an island paradise with a happening nightlife scene, Zanzibar should be at the top of your travel list. Explore the nights of Zanzibar, and you'll discover a world of fun, music, and memories waiting to be made.
