Updated on 23 October 2024
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, look no further than the beautiful island of Zanzibar. With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning landscapes, Zanzibar is a beach-lovers paradise. But with so many beaches to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. To help make your planning easier, here’s a list of the top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar for travellers.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
What You Need To Know Before planning your trip to Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#1 Kendwa Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#2 Paje Beach one of the ultimate zanzibar beach vacation guide - [Skip to details]
#3 Matemwe Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#4 Nungwi Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#5 Jambiani Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#6 Bwejuu Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#7 Michamvi Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#8 Pongwe Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#9 Kendwa Rocks of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#10 Nungwi Village Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
Off the beaten path beaches - [Skip to details]
#11 Kae Funk Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
#12 Mtende Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar - [Skip to details]
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions, your burning questions answered - [Skip to details]
Final Paradise Found: Your Perfect Beach Awaits - [Skip to details]
Embedded Google Map of Zanzibar , Unguja main island, Tanzania, Indian Ocean , East Africa
What You Need To Know Before planning your trip to Zanzibar
1) The airports in Zanzibar. There are three large islands in Zanzibar (Zanzibar Island, Pemba and Mafia Island), each island has its own airport so there are three airports in Zanzibar
Zanzibar's unique geography and infrastructure require careful planning for a smooth trip. The archipelago has three main islands (Zanzibar Island, Pemba, and Mafia Island), each with its own airport. Most international travellers arrive at ZNZ Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume Airport, but it's crucial to note that many popular beach resorts can be up to two hours away, with one-way transfers costing around $70.
2) Money, Currency exchange and ATM fees
Financial preparation is key when visiting Zanzibar. Bring cash rather than relying on cards or ATMs, as ATM withdrawals often dispense local shillings at unfavourable rates and incur additional fees. The limitations of local banking infrastructure make cash transactions the most practical and economical choice for most purchases.
3) It is cheaper to book tours when you get to Zanzibar than paying online
For the best value on activities and excursions, wait to book tours until after arrival rather than booking online or through resorts. Local tour guides typically offer significantly better rates than international booking platforms, allowing you to experience more of what Zanzibar has to offer while staying within budget.
4) Let me break down Zanzibar's seasons to help you choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Dreaming of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters? Here's when to visit Zanzibar for your perfect tropical escape.
January-March (Hot Season):
Peak tourist season brings optimal beach weather and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for snorkeling, diving, and exploring Stone Town. Expect higher prices but ideal conditions for all activities.
April-May (Long Rains):
Budget travelers, listen up! While these months bring rain, you'll find incredible deals at luxury resorts, especially on the North Coast. Occasional dry spells offer perfect beach days without the crowds.
June-October (Cool, Dry Season):
The golden period for exploration. Comfortable temperatures make it ideal for spice plantation tours, Stone Town walks, and East Coast kitesurfing. Popular with families and adventure seekers.
November-December (Short Rains):
Brief afternoon showers shouldn't deter you. The North Coast offers predictable weather patterns and excellent infrastructure. Plus, you'll enjoy refreshing breaks between sunshine and lower tourist numbers.
Pro Tip: Consider late October or early December for the perfect balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and authentic island experiences without peak-season crowds.
Each season offers unique charms - from perfect beach days to amazing deals. Match your travel style with Zanzibar's seasonal offerings for an unforgettable island adventure..
Remember, each season in Zanzibar offers its own unique charm and experiences. Whether you're seeking peak beach weather, better deals, or fewer crowds, there's a perfect time for your visit. The key is matching your travel style and preferences with what each season has to offer.
Want my personal recommendation? Target the shoulder seasons – either late October or early December.
Also read our 2-week itinerary in Zanzibar. You'll find fewer crowds, reasonable prices, and generally good weather, plus you'll get to experience the island's authentic rhythm of life without the peak-season hustle.
Are you ready to catch your next flight to Zanzibar, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!
Or request a Flight & Hotel package
Tides in Zanzibar
Understanding tides is crucial for beach activities:
- Most beaches experience significant tidal variations
- Check local tide tables for the best swimming times
- Some beaches are better during high tide, others during low tide
Beach Safety Tips
1. Always respect local customs and dress codes
2. Use reef shoes when swimming
3. Apply high SPF sunscreen
4. Stay hydrated
5. Be aware of sea urchins during low tide
#1 Kendwa Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Kendwa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Zanzibar. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. At low tide, you can even walk out to the nearby sand bar for a unique experience. The beach is lined with palm trees and there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.
A popular activity on Kendwa Beach is to watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean. The views are spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploring the island.
Kendwa Beach stands out for its minimal tidal influence, making it perfect for all-day swimming[1].
Highlights
Year-round swimming
Stunning sunset views
Vibrant nightlife
Perfect for snorkelling
Best For
Swimmers
Party lovers
Sunset watchers
Water sports enthusiasts
#2 Paje Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Paje Beach is the perfect spot for kitesurfing and other watersports. With its shallow waters and steady winds, it’s a great place to learn or perfect your skills. The beach is also lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the water and explore the local culture.
Paje Beach is also great for sunbathing, as there are plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas to relax in. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a trip to nearby Jozani Forest for a unique wildlife experience.
World-renowned for kitesurfing, Paje Beach offers consistent winds and expansive shallow waters[2].
Key Features:
Premier kitesurfing destination
Wide, white sandy beach
Multiple kitesurfing schools
Excellent beach bars and restaurants
Activities:
Kitesurfing
Windsurfing
Beach walking
Photography
Ready to explore Zanzibar for your next solo or friends & family cultural & leisure Trip to Southern Tanzania? Find out the best hotels for your stay now below.
Where to stay - Co-Living Space for Digital Nomads in Zanzibar
Located on top of Darajani Market in the big T shaped Building. On the Top floor you have the co-working space , Meeting Rooms and Shared apartments and Double rooms.
Adjacent to the coworking space, you can stay in a shared apartment with a kitchen, common area, and everything else you need.
Very close to the beach and great relaxing vibes in this affordable Stay with great Wifi connectivity.
A short walk from the beach, this tiny location has rooms of various sizes. Difficult to find, basic, but it has everything you need.
They have small rooms available to rent daily, weekly, and monthly.
Centrally located in Stonetown, Famous for the adjacent Art Gallery and the Legacy Emerson On Humzuri Hotel. they also offer options for apartments from studio to 2 bedroom flats with rooftop access for long stays from weeks to months.a
Stonetown City Center :
Spice Hotel, Stonetown - Our favourite Classy and best friendly staff
Upendo House, Stonetown - Cool roofop with Bar and pool best view in Stonetown
South of Zanzibar with Beach access :
Bamboo Zanzibar, Jambiani - Stunning views on the beach, Rooftop lounge and
On the Luxury resort side 5 to 6 stars ranking
Le Mersenne , Beach Resort Pingwe - Legendary for its Deck similar to The Maldives resort property, perfect for drone video shots and ultra luxurious rooms.
Safira Blu - Nungwi- Great Pools, sundecks , Pool party animation and get a celebrity clikeustomer services
Tulia Zanzibar - Pongwe, Most Luxury beach resort experience and Best food
Lux Marijani - Pwa Mchangani - Best Beach in Zanzibar
Jua Retreat Zanzibar - Michamwi - Outdoor retreat Vibes and very unique
#3 Matemwe Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, Matemwe Beach is the perfect place. It’s tucked away on the north-east coast of the island and is surrounded by lush vegetation. The beach is also great for snorkeling, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life.
Matemwe Beach is a great spot to watch the sunrise over the Indian Ocean. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants, so you can have a bite to eat with a view.
Traditional fishing village meets paradise at Matemwe Beach, offering an authentic Zanzibari experience.
Highlights
Local fishing culture
Pristine coral reefs
Peaceful atmosphere
Views of Mnemba Atoll
Best Times
Morning for fishing boat watching
Afternoon for swimming
Evening for spectacular sunsets
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#4 Nungwi Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Nungwi Beach is one of the most picturesque spots on the island. It’s known for its white sand and crystal clear waters, and is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture.
Nungwi Beach is also a great spot for scuba diving. The nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral, making it a great spot for underwater exploration.
One of Zanzibar's most popular beaches, Nungwi offers something for everyone[3].
Features
Minimal tide impact
Luxury resorts
Traditional dhow building
Vibrant beach culture
Activities Available
Snorkeling
Diving
Sunset dhow cruises
Beach volleyball
Fancy saving money on roaming fees for your next solo trip, why not use an e-SIM from Ajo? You can also use our Promodcode MELANIN24 and save 5% on your next E-SIM Purchase. Keeping in touch with family and friends on the move has never been so easy and affordable.
#5 Jambiani Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Jambiani Beach is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture. Jambiani Beach is also a great spot for scuba diving, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral.
Jambiani Beach is also known for its stunning sunsets. At low tide, you can even walk out to the nearby sandbar for a unique experience.
Experience authentic village life along a stunning coastline at Jambiani.
Highlights
Seaweed farming
Local culture
Long walking beach
Budget-friendly options
Best For
Cultural enthusiasts
Photography
Long beach walks
Budget travellers
Are you ready to catch your next flight to Zanzibar, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!
Or request a Flight & Hotel package
#6 Bwejuu Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Bwejuu Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture. Bwejuu Beach is also a great spot for scuba diving, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral.
Bwejuu Beach is also known for its stunning sunsets. The views are spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploring the island.
#7 Michamvi Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Michamvi Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture. Michamvi Beach is also a great spot for scuba diving, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral.
Michamvi Beach is also known for its stunning sunsets. The views are spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploring the island.
Fancy saving money on roaming fees for your next solo trip, why not use an e-SIM from Ajo? You can also use our Promodcode MELANIN24 and save 5% on your next E-SIM Purchase. Keeping in touch with family and friends on the move has never been so easy and affordable.
#8 Pongwe Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Pongwe Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture. Pongwe Beach is also a great spot for scuba diving, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral.
Pongwe Beach is also known for its stunning sunsets. The views are spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploring the island.
Ready to explore Zanzibar for your next solo or friends & family cultural & leisure Trip to Southern Tanzania? Find out the best hotels for your stay now below.
Where to stay - Co-Living Space for Digital Nomads in Zanzibar
Located on top of Darajani Market in the big T shaped Building. On the Top floor you have the co-working space , Meeting Rooms and Shared apartments and Double rooms.
Adjacent to the coworking space, you can stay in a shared apartment with a kitchen, common area, and everything else you need.
Very close to the beach and great relaxing vibes in this affordable Stay with great Wifi connectivity.
A short walk from the beach, this tiny location has rooms of various sizes. Difficult to find, basic, but it has everything you need.
They have small rooms available to rent daily, weekly, and monthly.
Centrally located in Stonetown, Famous for the adjacent Art Gallery and the Legacy Emerson On Humzuri Hotel. they also offer options for apartments from studio to 2 bedroom flats with rooftop access for long stays from weeks to months.a
Stonetown City Center :
Spice Hotel, Stonetown - Our favourite Classy and best friendly staff
Upendo House, Stonetown - Cool roofop with Bar and pool best view in Stonetown
South of Zanzibar with Beach access :
Bamboo Zanzibar, Jambiani - Stunning views on the beach, Rooftop lounge and
On the Luxury resort side 5 to 6 stars ranking
Le Mersenne , Beach Resort Pingwe - Legendary for its Deck similar to The Maldives resort property, perfect for drone video shots and ultra luxurious rooms.
Safira Blu - Nungwi- Great Pools, sundecks , Pool party animation and get a celebrity clikeustomer services
Tulia Zanzibar - Pongwe, Most Luxury beach resort experience and Best food
Lux Marijani - Pwa Mchangani - Best Beach in Zanzibar
Jua Retreat Zanzibar - Michamwi - Outdoor retreat Vibes and very unique
#9 Kendwa Rocks of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Kendwa Rocks is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture. Kendwa Rocks is also a great spot for scuba diving, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral.
Kendwa Rocks is also known for its stunning sunsets. The views are spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploring the island.
Are you ready to catch your next flight to Zanzibar, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!
Or request a Flight & Hotel package
#10 Nungwi Village Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
Nungwi Village Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can take a break from the sun and explore the local culture. Nungwi Village Beach is also a great spot for scuba diving, as the nearby reef is home to an abundance of sea life and coral.
Nungwi Village Beach is also known for its stunning sunsets. The views are spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploring the island.
So there you have it, the top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar for travellers. Whether you’re looking for a spot to relax, take part in watersports or explore the local culture, there’s something for everyone on this stunning island. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable beach vacation in Zanzibar.
Off the beaten path beaches
#11 Kae Funk Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
At night, some of the best sunset views and relaxed atmosphere with large deck bed and South African music vibes, shisha bar to relax. There are also live animation , dancers, fire dancers to keep the atmosphere relaxed and lively..
#12 Mtende Beach of the Top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar
More like a Cove, a secret gem well hidden, you would need to get a taxi driver to bring you there, good for romantic getaway, much less crowded or a picnic in between friends.
Frequently Asked Questions, your burning questions answered
Q: Which beach has the best snorkelling?
A: Mnemba Atoll near Matemwe Beach offers the best snorkelling experience.
Q: Are Zanzibar beaches safe at night?
A: While main tourist beaches are generally safe, it's advisable to stay in well-lit areas and travel in groups after dark.
Q: Which beach is best for families?
A: Nungwi and Kendwa beaches are ideal for families due to minimal tidal influence and good facilities.
Q: Can you swim during low tide?
A: Swimming during low tide can be challenging at most beaches except Kendwa and Nungwi.
Q: Are there private beaches in Zanzibar?
A: All beaches in Zanzibar are public by law, though some resorts maintain private sections.
Final Paradise Found: Your Perfect Beach Awaits
Discovering the top 10 best beaches in Zanzibar reveals an incredible diversity of coastal experiences, from bustling tourist hotspots to secluded paradise coves. Each beach offers its own unique charm, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. By considering the tides, seasons, and your personal preferences, you can find your perfect match among these stunning destinations.
Remember that Zanzibar's beaches are more than just beautiful landscapes – they're gateways to understanding local culture, experiencing marine life, and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you choose the popular shores of Nungwi or venture to the remote beauty of Mtende Beach, you're sure to find your own slice of paradise on this magnificent island.
[1]: Zanzibar Tourism Board Annual Report 2023
[2]: International Kiteboarding Organization Statistics 2024
[3]: Marine Conservation Zanzibar Research Paper 2023
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