Beaches of Zanzibar Island | White Sand, Clear Water and Quiet Corners

Zanzibar Island sits in the Indian Ocean off Tanzania’s coast, and its beaches are hard to beat. Some of them rank among the best beaches in the world.

Expect fine white sand, bright blue water, dhow boats sailing past and tall coconut palms that look straight out of a travel magazine. The thing to know is that Zanzibar is not one beach. There are dozens along the coast, and each has its own feel, from the parties at Nungwi to the quiet of Matemwe.

1. Nungwi Beach – the lively north

1. Nungwi Beach – the lively north

A palm tree arching over Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar

Why go?

Nungwi is one of the most popular beaches on Zanzibar Island, and it is easy to see why. It sits at the northern tip and mixes smart resorts with local life. The sunsets here are some of the best on the island.

Highlights:

  • A wide, good-looking beach with no significant tidal changes, so you can swim all day.

  • Very good snorkeling and diving, with coral reefs close by and the well-known Mnemba Atoll a short boat ride away.

  • Plenty of restaurants, beach bars and resorts right on the sand.

Don’t miss:

  • Take a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.

  • Visit the Nungwi Turtle Sanctuary.

  • Spend a night out at Coco Cabana or Cholo’s Beach Bar.

2. Kendwa Beach – calm and comfortable

Aerial view of palm-lined Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar

Why go?

Kendwa is just south of Nungwi and feels like its quieter, more relaxed neighbour. Come here for soft sand, clear water and fewer people.

Highlights:

  • Good for swimming at any time of day.

  • Known for its Full Moon beach parties (think Thailand, but Zanzibar style).

  • A good mix of luxury and mid-range resorts.

Don’t miss:

  • Lie in a hammock with a fresh coconut.

  • Have a go at stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

  • Join the monthly Full Moon Party at Kendwa Rocks.

3. Paje Beach – the kitesurfing beach

Kitesurfers on the turquoise water at Paje Beach, Zanzibar

Why go?

If you like wind, waves and something to do, Paje is your beach. It is on the southeast coast and is the sporty, active beach of Zanzibar Island.

Highlights:

  • One of the best kitesurfing spots in the world (especially from June to September).

  • A lively beach with backpacker hostels and easy-going cafes.

  • Wide tidal flats, good for photos and long beach walks.

Don’t miss:

  • Take a kitesurfing lesson with Airborne Kite Centre.

  • Get a smoothie bowl at Mr. Kahawa.

  • Visit the seaweed farms with a local guide.

4. Jambiani Beach – slow and quiet

A jetty leading to an overwater restaurant at Jambiani, Zanzibar

Why go?

Jambiani is just down the road from Paje. Life is slower here, there are fewer people, and it is properly quiet. It suits couples, solo travellers and anyone who needs a rest.

Highlights:

  • A real fishing village with friendly locals.

  • Gently sloping beaches and big tidal changes.

  • A good base for visiting Jozani Forest or doing reef walks.

Don’t miss:

  • Stay in a local guesthouse and get a feel for Zanzibari hospitality.

  • Join a seaweed harvesting tour.

  • Eat grilled octopus outdoors at night at Blue Reef Restaurant.

5. Matemwe Beach – the quiet one

Palm trees above the white sand of Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar

Why go?

If you want a beach almost to yourself, try Matemwe on the northeastern coast. It is peaceful and less built up, and it is the closest beach to some of Zanzibar’s best diving spots.

Highlights:

  • Quiet and clean, with palm trees all along the shore.

  • Very good snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll.

  • Fewer tourists, so it feels more local.

Don’t miss:

  • Book a snorkeling trip to Mnemba Island.

  • Treat yourself to a beachside massage at Zanzibar Retreat Hotel.

  • Watch the fishermen bring in their morning catch.

6. Kizimkazi – The Dolphin Watching Spot

Dolphins leaping near swimmers off the Zanzibar coast

Why go?

Kizimkazi is in the far south of the island. It is known for dolphin tours and old mosques. The beach is quieter and works best for a short stay or a half-day trip.

Highlights:

  • Home to bottlenose and humpback dolphins.

  • Plenty of Swahili history.

  • Uncrowded and undeveloped.

Don’t miss:

  • Go on an early morning dolphin tour (choose an operator that keeps its distance from the dolphins).

  • Visit the Kizimkazi Dimbani Mosque, one of the oldest in East Africa.

  • Take a boat trip to hidden coves and snorkel spots.

7. Michamvi Peninsula – secluded and calm

A quiet white-sand beach and turquoise water on Zanzibar

Why go?

Michamvi lies between Pingwe and Kae beaches. It is a good choice for a romantic break or a wellness retreat, and a place to switch off from everything.

Highlights:

  • Sunsets over the water, which is rare on the east coast.

  • Home to The Rock Restaurant, which really does sit on a rock in the ocean.

  • Yoga, wellness and plenty of peace and quiet.

Don’t miss:

  • Book a romantic dinner at The Rock Restaurant.

  • Watch the sunset from Kae Funk Beach Bar.

  • Do nothing at all, and enjoy it.

When is the best time to visit Zanzibar beaches?

When is the best time to visit Zanzibar beaches?

  • June to October: Dry and sunny, the best time for lazy beach days.

  • December to February: Warmer, and still a good time to travel.

  • March to May: Rainy season. Fewer people, but you may lose some beach days to rain.