Zanzibar is famous for its beautiful and diverse beaches, with the northern and western regions offering calmer waters and less dramatic tides, ideal for relaxing and swimming. The eastern beaches, while known for their dramatic tidal changes and more laid-back atmosphere, are also popular with diving and surfing enthusiasts.
Zanzibar offers a variety of beautiful beaches and resorts for a beach holiday, with options for all budgets and preferences. Popular areas include Nungwi and Kendwa on the northwest coast, known for their pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. Other recommended areas include Pongwe on the east coast, Paje and Dongwe, and Matemwe on the northeast coast.
Here’s a more detailed look at some of Zanzibar’s best beaches:
Northern Beaches:
Nungwi Beach: A bustling and lively beach with a wide range of resorts, hotels, and restaurants, and known for its spectacular sunsets.
Kendwa Beach: A beautiful and lively beach, particularly in the evenings, with crystal-clear water and white sands.
Other northern beaches: Known for their calmer waters and less dramatic tides, offering ideal swimming conditions.
Eastern Beaches: Paje Beach: Popular for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving, with a relaxed atmosphere.
Jambiani Beach: A less crowded and quieter beach with good restaurants, known for its kite surfing and snorkeling opportunities.
Matemwe Beach: A typical Zanzibar beach with a wide band of white sand at low tide, leading to seaweed farms and a deep-water channel.
Kiwengwa Beach: Another typical Zanzibar beach with a wide band of white sand at low tide.
Pongwe Beach: Considered by some to have the best beach on the island, with a handful of boutique hotels.
Western Beaches:
Muyuni Beach: A popular kite surfing spot.
Other Notable Beaches: Bwejuu Beach: Located on the east coast, offering a mix of relaxation and water sports.
Kizimkazi Beach: known for its pristine blue water and towering palm trees.
Culture: Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and delve into the island’s rich history, architecture, and culture, according to Tribes Travel.
Activities: Zanzibar offers a variety of activities, including spice tours, boat trips, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Jozani Forest Reserve.
Accommodation: Choose from a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels and resorts to private villas, catering to various budgets and preferences.
Wildlife: Witness the diverse wildlife, including land turtles, red colobus monkeys, and various bird species. And Food: Enjoy fresh seafood, local delicacies, and international cuisine, according to Tribes Travel.
Best Time to Visit:
Dry season (June to October): Offers the best weather for long days at the beach, with low humidity and warm temperatures.
December to February: Another good time to visit, with warm temperatures and less rain.
Note: Be aware of the rainy season, which usually occurs from March to May and November.
Other Things to Consider:
Stone Town: Don’t forget to explore Stone Town, a historic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Jozani Forest: Visit Jozani Forest for a chance to see the endemic red colobus monkeys.
Mnemba Island: A short boat ride from Nungwi, Mnemba Island is home to pristine beaches and is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.
Are you planning a Zanzibar holiday? The Zanzibar Archipelago is an awesome world-class beach destination! Check out our itineraries for Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Island and read all you need to know about these tropical islands. You can easily combine a Zanzibar vacation with a safari on the mainland.