Turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and a centuries-old Swahili culture—Zanzibar is a tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania that has captivated explorers, traders, and sunseekers for centuries. Often referred to as the “Spice Island” due to its historic role in the global spice trade, Zanzibar today entices travelers with its laid-back charm, vibrant markets, and some of the most stunning beaches on the African continent. Whether you’re after crystalline waters for snorkeling, sugar-white sands for sunbathing, or a chance to immerse yourself in local customs, you’ll find your slice of paradise here.
In this guide, we’ll explore 9 of the best beaches in Zanzibar, each presenting a different facet of the archipelago’s coastal allure. From the pulsating shores of Nungwi to the tranquil hideaways near Michamvi, Zanzibar’s beaches cater to a wide range of tastes—be it water sports, cultural excursions, or simply a serene spot to sip on fresh coconut juice. Pack your flip-flops and a spirit of adventure, and let’s dive into these idyllic Indian Ocean shores.
1. Nungwi Beach
Located at the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi Beach is among the island’s most famous shorelines. Its powdery white sand and impossibly clear waters have helped it regularly feature in lists of the world’s top beaches. Nungwi is also the heart of the island’s traditional dhow-building industry, so don’t be surprised if you see craftsmen working on wooden boats at the water’s edge.
Over the last decade, Nungwi has grown in popularity, bringing with it a variety of guesthouses, boutique hotels, and restaurants that still manage to retain a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can spend the day snorkeling around the nearby coral reefs, feast on fresh seafood at a local eatery, and then watch the sky turn pink during a spectacular Indian Ocean sunset.
Activities
- Snorkeling & Diving – The waters off Nungwi are teeming with marine life—colorful fish, sea turtles, and the occasional dolphin. Diving centers arrange excursions to Mnemba Atoll and other prime sites.
- Sunset Dhow Cruises – A sunset sail aboard a traditional dhow is practically a rite of passage. Glide along the coast to the sound of lapping waves and Swahili music.
- Beach Volleyball & Local Interaction – Many resorts and local youth organize casual volleyball matches in the afternoons. Don’t be shy about jumping in!
Best For:
Those seeking a balance of lively beach culture and natural beauty. Nungwi appeals to couples, families, and solo travelers alike who want a mix of relaxation and activity with a dash of local tradition.
2. Kendwa Beach
Just south of Nungwi lies Kendwa Beach, another northern gem celebrated for its scenic shoreline and vibrant nightlife scene. Kendwa boasts fewer tidal fluctuations than other parts of the island, so you can swim at almost any time of day. The sea here is a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, perfect for snorkeling close to the beach or simply floating in bath-warm water.
Kendwa’s Full Moon Parties have become quite famous among backpackers and partygoers. Held monthly, these gatherings feature live music, bonfires, and dancing under a star-filled sky. That said, Kendwa remains laid-back on non-party days, making it a versatile spot for travelers who enjoy both serenity and the occasional revelry.
Activities
- Water Sports – Jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding can be arranged through local operators. Kendwa’s calm waters are well-suited for most water activities.
- Beach Bars & Nightlife – Sample tropical cocktails while watching a fiery sunset. If you time it right, stay for the Full Moon Party for an unforgettable beach bash.
- Short Walk to Nungwi – You can stroll along the shore between Kendwa and Nungwi at low tide, discovering hidden coves and local fishing boats along the way.
Best For:
Younger crowds or anyone who enjoys a good mix of relaxed beach life with the possibility of vibrant nightlife. Kendwa’s all-day swimming and party scene offer a fun, upbeat alternative to other quieter beaches.
3. Paje Beach
On Zanzibar’s southeast coast lies Paje Beach, the island’s kite-surfing capital. Shallow lagoons stretch far out into the sea, and the strong, consistent winds make for ideal kite-surfing conditions—whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner. The sand here is famously white, and the seafloor remains flat and sandy, making it perfect for wading during low tide.
Paje also offers a chilled-out backpacker scene, with hostels, cozy beach bars, and restaurants serving everything from local Swahili dishes to Western favorites. Afternoons often see groups of travelers sipping fresh sugar cane juice while watching kitesurfers perform aerial tricks against a backdrop of blue sky and turquoise ocean.
Activities
- Kite-Surfing Lessons – Multiple kite schools dot the shoreline, providing equipment rental and lessons for all levels.
- Exploring Rock Pools – During low tide, large areas of the seafloor are exposed, revealing small rock pools inhabited by starfish and sea anemones.
- Beach Yoga – Many beachfront hostels and eco-lodges host sunrise or sunset yoga sessions. There’s no better place to practice mindfulness than on silky sand under swaying palm trees.
Best For:
Active travelers and those seeking a fun social scene without huge crowds. Paje’s lively vibe, complete with kite-surfing action, appeals to sporty individuals, digital nomads, and anyone wanting a chill, community-driven atmosphere.
4. Jambiani Beach
Further down the southeastern coast is the tranquil fishing village of Jambiani, known for its long stretch of dazzling white sand, swaying coconut palms, and friendly local community. Life moves at a measured pace here: fishermen head out at dawn in wooden dhows, while seaweed farmers tend to their plots at low tide. It’s an authentic window into rural coastal life on Zanzibar, far from the resort bustle.
For travelers, Jambiani’s clear lagoon provides an idyllic setting for swimming and snorkeling. Walking along the beach, you’ll pass by small guesthouses and local eateries that serve fresh-caught fish with chapati or rice. If you’re intrigued by Swahili cooking, some places offer informal cooking lessons where you can learn to prepare local specialties.
Activities
- Cultural Tours – Interact with villagers to learn about seaweed farming, bread baking, or dhow-building. Local guides can facilitate respectful cultural experiences.
- Cycling & Beach Walks – Rent a bicycle or amble along the shore, passing by fishing boats and schoolchildren playing soccer in the sand.
- Reef Exploration – At low tide, walk out to explore exposed coral reefs. Bring water shoes or sandals to protect your feet.
Best For:
Those seeking a slower pace and authentic immersion in village life. Jambiani embodies Zanzibar’s gentle spirit, making it perfect for travelers who value tranquility and cultural connection over nightlife or extensive amenities.
5. Pongwe Beach
Cradled by lush coconut plantations and protected by a coral reef, Pongwe Beach on Zanzibar’s eastern shore might just be the definition of secluded paradise. Its location, roughly halfway between Stone Town and the southeastern beaches, often goes unnoticed by those who stick to the popular hubs, ensuring fewer crowds and a more exclusive feel.
Pongwe’s lagoon-like waters create excellent conditions for swimming, even during low tide, a rarity on Zanzibar’s east coast. The absence of large resorts means the beach remains wonderfully quiet, with only a handful of boutique hotels offering thatched-roof bungalows and beachside dining. Expect to find hammocks strung between palms, perfectly positioned for lazy afternoons under the sun.
Activities
- Relaxation & Seclusion – The main draw here is the serene atmosphere. Reading a book, sipping on fresh coconut water, and listening to the gentle waves are key “activities.”
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Some guesthouses provide free kayaks or SUP boards to explore the calm lagoon.
- Star Gazing – With minimal light pollution, Pongwe transforms into a celestial wonderland at night. Lie on the beach and watch for shooting stars.
Best For:
Couples on a honeymoon or travelers seeking a romantic, low-key escape. If you value privacy and appreciate a more rustic, boutique setting, Pongwe’s tranquil shorelines will steal your heart.
6. Bwejuu Beach
Lying along the southeast coastline, Bwejuu Beach is renowned for its extensive tidal flats. When the tide goes out, the ocean recedes dramatically, leaving behind a vast landscape of shallow pools perfect for leisurely walks and shell-collecting. This unique tidal movement has shaped a local economy centered around seaweed farming, a fascinating daily ritual to observe.
Bwejuu remains less commercialized than Paje and Jambiani, but it’s still home to a few eco-lodges and small resorts catering to those who prefer peace and nature over parties. The trade winds keep temperatures comfortable, and the palm-fringed beach offers an excellent vantage point for sunrises that bathe the shoreline in a golden glow.
Activities
- Seaweed Farm Visits – Discover how local farmers harvest seaweed at low tide, turning it into everything from soaps to beauty products.
- Long Tidal Walks – Wander the ocean floor at low tide and encounter starfish, tiny crabs, and pockets of coral.
- Beachside Swahili Lessons – Some lodges organize crash courses in Swahili phrases, an engaging way to interact with locals during your stay.
Best For:
Nature enthusiasts and those with a penchant for quieter beach life. Bwejuu’s mesmerizing tidal shifts and relaxed ambience appeal to travelers looking for a scenic, low-key retreat.
7. Michamvi Peninsula (Michamvi Kae & Michamvi Pingwe)
On the eastern side of Zanzibar, the Michamvi Peninsula juts into the Indian Ocean, forming two distinct beach areas: Michamvi Kae on the west-facing side and Michamvi Pingwe on the east-facing side. Kae is known for its sunset beach, a rarity on the island’s east coast, while Pingwe boasts postcard-perfect sandbars at low tide and the famed “Rock Restaurant,” perched on a rock outcrop just offshore.
Because of its relatively remote setting, the Michamvi Peninsula remains delightfully quiet outside of a few select resorts. One of the major draws here is the extensive mangrove forests that line the coast, teeming with birdlife and marine species. Kayaking through these mangroves is a tranquil way to explore an ecosystem that often goes unseen by typical beachgoers.
Activities
- Sunset Chasing at Kae – Most of Zanzibar’s eastern beaches face sunrise, but Michamvi Kae looks west, making it the perfect spot for fiery sunsets over the bay.
- Dining at The Rock – At Michamvi Pingwe, enjoy fresh seafood at the iconic Rock Restaurant, accessible by foot at low tide or by boat at high tide.
- Mangrove Kayaking – Glide through the mangroves, listening to birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves. Guides can point out various species of wildlife.
Best For:
Travelers who appreciate understated luxury, unique natural settings, and the novelty of seeing a sunset on the east coast. Whether you crave romantic dinners on a rock in the sea or peaceful paddles through mangroves, Michamvi delivers.
8. Matemwe Beach
Matemwe Beach, on Zanzibar’s northeast coast, is characterized by its palm-lined shores and serene atmosphere. Its proximity to the renowned Mnemba Atoll makes it a top choice for snorkelers and scuba divers. Local fishermen frequent the waters, and it’s common to see them returning to shore with their morning catch, offering a glimpse into traditional island life.
This region features a handful of eco-friendly boutique resorts that blend harmoniously with the coconut groves. You’re more likely to hear the sound of rustling palms than any party beats, making Matemwe ideal for those seeking pure relaxation. The reef offshore helps moderate waves, and during low tide, you can walk far out on the exposed sandbanks, discovering starfish, small octopuses, and other marine treasures.
Activities
- Snorkeling & Diving at Mnemba – Day trips to Mnemba Atoll reward you with sightings of colorful reef fish, dolphins, and (if you’re lucky) whale sharks.
- Local Fish Markets – Early risers can stroll to nearby villages to see fishermen display their catch—ranging from tuna to octopus—before auctions begin.
- Sunrise Strolls – Facing east, Matemwe is blessed with awe-inspiring sunrise panoramas. Walking along the shore at dawn is a sublime way to start the day.
Best For:
Underwater enthusiasts eager to explore Mnemba Atoll and travelers who value a calm, nature-centric environment over bustling nightlife. Matemwe’s unspoiled charm suits honeymooners, diving groups, and solo wanderers alike.
9. Nakupenda Sandbank
Technically not a “beach” in the traditional sense, Nakupenda Sandbank is an ephemeral stretch of pristine sand that appears off the coast of Stone Town, particularly at low tide. Accessible by boat, the sandbank lies in the middle of crystal-clear waters, giving the illusion of being marooned on a deserted island. It’s a popular half-day excursion for those staying in Stone Town.
Most tours include time for snorkeling around the surrounding reefs, followed by a grilled seafood lunch on the sandbank itself—think lobster, squid, and freshly caught fish, often served with local sides and fresh fruit. Because of its tidal nature, timing is everything. Aim for mid- to late morning departures for the best conditions before the water creeps back in.
Activities
- Snorkeling – The reefs around Nakupenda harbor a kaleidoscope of fish species. Visibility is typically excellent under calm conditions.
- Beach Picnics – Indulge in fresh seafood grilled on-site. Some tours bring a makeshift tent or umbrellas for shade.
- Stone Town Add-On – Combine your trip with a walking tour of historic Stone Town, exploring narrow alleys, shops, and landmarks like the Old Fort and Freddie Mercury’s birthplace.
Best For:
Island hoppers and anyone seeking a unique, Instagram-worthy beach experience near Stone Town. Nakupenda’s fleeting nature offers a truly magical few hours surrounded by nothing but turquoise water and open sky.
Conclusion
From the kite-surfing haven of Paje to the tranquil vibes of Jambiani, Zanzibar’s coastlines present a mosaic of experiences—each beach telling its own story through tidal rhythms, local customs, and the ever-present hum of the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re chasing adventure on the surf, indulging in fresh seafood by candlelight, or simply soaking in the region’s history and spice-scented breezes, Zanzibar invites you to take life slowly and savor every moment.
By highlighting these 9 captivating shores, we’ve only hinted at the breadth of Zanzibar’s coastal charms. Travelers willing to explore beyond the well-trodden paths may find secret coves, hidden sandbars, and small fishing communities that still practice centuries-old traditions. One thing is certain: with its tapestry of best beaches, Zanzibar leaves an indelible mark on all who venture here. It’s a place that seamlessly blends Swahili heritage, vibrant marine life, and laid-back island living into one unforgettable journey.
Whether your Zanzibar dream involves sipping fresh coconut juice under a palm or free-diving in crystalline waters, rest assured that each beach offers its own flavor of tropical bliss. Pack your sunscreen, remember a few Swahili greetings (like “Jambo!” for hello), and get ready to be captivated by the Spice Island’s unending allure.
