Discover Zanzibar's finest beaches from someone who grew up exploring them. From the powder-white sands of Nungwi to the kitesurfing haven of Paje, find your perfect slice of Indian Ocean paradise.
Zanzibar's Most Beautiful Beaches
Growing up on Zanzibar, I've spent countless hours exploring every stretch of coastline this island offers. Each beach has its own character, and choosing the "best" depends entirely on what you're seeking.
Let me guide you through the options honestly, including details the glossy brochures often leave out.
Understanding Zanzibar's Tides
Before choosing your beach, understand this: Zanzibar has significant tidal variations. On the east coast, low tide can reveal hundreds of meters of exposed seabed. This isn't a flaw—it's natural—but it affects your swimming options.
Minimal tidal impact: North coast (Nungwi, Kendwa)
Significant tidal impact: East coast (Paje, Jambiani, Matemwe)
Nungwi Beach: The All-Rounder
Location: Northern tip
Vibe: Social, beautiful, developed
Best for: Those wanting consistent swimming and beach bars
Nungwi consistently ranks as Zanzibar's most popular beach, and for good reason. The deep offshore waters mean swimming is possible at all tides—a genuine advantage.
The reality:
- Genuinely beautiful turquoise water
- Beach boys can be persistent (a firm "no thank you" works)
- More developed and touristy than other areas
- Excellent sunset views
- Lively restaurants and bars
- Some of the best seafood on the island
My recommendation: Perfect for first-time Zanzibar visitors who want reliable beach time and social atmosphere.
Kendwa Beach: The Party Coast
Location: Just south of Nungwi
Vibe: Young, energetic, famous full moon parties
Best for: Younger travelers, nightlife seekers
Kendwa is Nungwi's slightly wilder neighbor. The famous full moon parties draw crowds from across the island.
The reality:
- Beautiful, swimmable beach
- Can feel crowded during events
- More backpacker/youth-oriented
- Less traditional Zanzibari atmosphere
- Great for meeting other travelers
Matemwe: Authentic East Coast
Location: Northeast coast
Vibe: Peaceful, authentic, traditional
Best for: Couples seeking tranquility, cultural immersion
Matemwe maintains a genuinely local feel with fishing dhows dotting the shore and village life continuing as it has for generations.
The reality:
- Tidal beach—swimming limited at low tide
- Beautifully uncrowded
- Traditional dhow sailing experiences
- Some of the island's best boutique hotels
- Mnemba Atoll (Zanzibar's best snorkeling) accessible from here
My recommendation: My personal favorite for couples wanting romance without crowds.
Paje: Kitesurf Capital
Location: Southeast coast
Vibe: Active, sporty, growing expat community
Best for: Kitesurfers, active travelers, long-term visitors
Paje has transformed from sleepy fishing village to East Africa's premier kitesurfing destination. The consistent winds and shallow lagoon create perfect conditions.
The reality:
- Swimming significantly tide-dependent
- At low tide, you can walk far out on sandbars
- Kitesurfing schools everywhere (beginners welcome)
- Growing café and restaurant scene
- More affordable than north coast
- International, active atmosphere
My recommendation: If you're interested in kitesurfing or want an active beach holiday, Paje is unbeatable.
Jambiani: The Long Stretch
Location: Southeast coast
Vibe: Laid-back, local, budget-friendly
Best for: Budget travelers, those seeking authenticity
Jambiani stretches for kilometers along the coast, with traditional villages, seaweed farms, and some excellent value accommodations.
The reality:
- Very tide-affected beach
- Fascinating seaweed farming to observe
- More interaction with local life
- Budget to mid-range accommodations
- Less developed infrastructure
- Beautiful but different kind of beauty
Michamvi Peninsula: Hidden Gem
Location: Between Paje and Chwaka
Vibe: Secluded, romantic, upmarket
Best for: Couples seeking seclusion, honeymooners
The Michamvi Peninsula remains one of Zanzibar's less-discovered areas, home to some exclusive resorts.
The reality:
- Some beaches swimmable at all tides
- Very quiet—limited restaurants outside hotels
- Stunning rock formations and private coves
- Higher-end accommodation dominates
- Need transport to explore
Stone Town Beaches: Skip Them
Let me be honest: the beaches immediately around Stone Town (like Forodhani) are not swimming beaches. Come to Stone Town for history, culture, and food—then head to the coast for beach time.
Beach Activities Beyond Swimming
Snorkeling/Diving: Mnemba Atoll is world-class. Trips depart from Matemwe and Nungwi.
Dolphin Tours: Kizimkazi in the south—ethical concerns exist, so choose operators carefully.
Kitesurfing: Paje is the hub, with schools offering lessons from $50-80.
Sailing: Traditional dhow sunset cruises from Nungwi and Stone Town.
Spice Tours: Combine beach time with island interior exploration.
Best Beach for...
Families: Nungwi (consistent swimming, amenities)
Couples: Matemwe or Michamvi (romance, seclusion)
Solo travelers: Paje (social scene, activities)
Luxury seekers: Mnemba Island or Michamvi boutique resorts
Budget travelers: Jambiani or Paje
Adventure sports: Paje (kitesurfing capital)
Photography: Matemwe at sunset, Jambiani seaweed farms
Practical Tips
Getting around: Rental scooters ($15-20/day) or arrange taxi transfers. Roads have improved but can be adventurous.
Beach etiquette: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Respect local customs—cover up when leaving beach areas.
Best time: June-October and December-February offer the best weather. March-May sees rain.
Combining beaches: Many visitors split time between north and east coasts—recommended for experiencing different vibes.
My Personal Favorites
For sundowners: Nungwi—watch the dhows sail past as the sun sets.
For morning walks: Jambiani—kilometers of empty sand at dawn.
For pure beauty: Matemwe—that combination of turquoise water and white sand never gets old.
For adventure: Paje—there's always something happening.
Zanzibar's beaches are genuinely special. Whatever your style, there's a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you.