Zanzibar Beaches

Set like a jewel in tranquil coral waters, only 20 minutes flight from Dar es Salaam is one of the world’s most beautiful islands - Zanzibar. Its name evokes a romantic past. To the shores of these islands came Summerians, Assyrians, Hindus, Egyptians, Phoenicians, Arabians, Chinese, Malaysians, and the Portuguese, all sailing in on Monsoon winds. From these shores the great European explorers Burton, Speke, Livingstone, Krapf, Rebman, and Grant set out on their voyages of discovery into the East and Central African hinterland.

The different races that have settled in Zanzibar over the centuries have left an imprint on the people and the architecture. The “House of Wonders” and the narrow streets of the Old Stone Town are just some of the vivid reminders of the islands long and colored history.

Zanzibar is also the birthplace of the fascinating Swahili culture with its elegant architecture, full of balconies, courtyards, hand-carved doors and mosques.

For centuries the historic Spice Islands of Zanzibar has evoked a mystical and magical dream. Fascinating history, exotic spices, sandy beaches and hospitable people... this is the enchantment of Zanzibar. Different excursions are arranged while in Zanzibar. These include taking visitors to spices plantations in the countryside where a variety of seasonal spices, tropical fruits and medicinal herbs are grown.

Detailed description of the spices is given, and their uses in cooking and cosmetics. Guests will be fascinated by the sheer number of spices produced, and by their incredible value for many ailments. This is also the cheapest place to purchase spices and oil extracts. Zanzibar is popularly referred to as the “Spice Islands”.

Another popular excursion is the “Zanzibar Stone Town Tour” which is literary a travel into history of this old capital of the Omani Sultans. Other excursions will include the old slave cave, the prison island, ruins of what was the palace of the Sultan Said, the old slave market and many other historical places.

Beaches in Zanzibar

With several beaches fringing the shores of Zanzibar, it’s no surprise that the beach culture is deep-rooted in its coastal identity. The island is renowned for its unending stretches of coastline, picturesque beaches, and exciting water activities. The beautiful coastline and the sparkling turquoise water will attract you for a swim. However, it’s important to know which of the beaches is suitable for swimming so that your dream holiday will not turn into a nightmare.

Thus, to inspire an enjoyable sun-kissed beach holiday, here are the best beaches for swimming in Zanzibar.

Nungwi Beach:

The tide in Nungwi Beach hardly fluctuates, making it one of the best beaches to swim. Nungwi is renowned for its beautiful golden sand beach and it’s listed as one of the best beaches in the world. It’s ideal for a wide range of water sports such as paragliding, Jet Ski, and scuba diving. Swimming at Nungwi beach is amazing and safe because the tide hardly fluctuates. You can swim at any time of day without worrying about the waves.

Kendwa Beach:

Located just a few kilometres from Nungwi Village, Kendwa has a beautiful beach perfect for an all-day swimming. The beach is lined with bandas, restaurants, and bars, and you can indulge in other water activities including scuba diving. You can spend some time having fun in the sand, play beach volleyball and enjoy some vibrant parties in the evening on the beach.

Fun Fact: Unlike other beaches on the island, Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches have almost no low tides, and that is why they are the best beaches for swimming in Zanzibar.

Pongwe Beach:

Pongwe Beach is situated on a tranquil cove in a secluded area – at the back of a coral lagoon. The beach features white-powdery sand and turquoise water, and the surrounding is shaded by towering palm trees with loungers and hammocks placed under them.  The beach is perfect for every swimmer because it has high tides almost all the time.  It’s protected by seaside reefs, which keeps the inner water calm and safe for swimming. There is a luxury eco-hotel in the surrounding just in case you want to spend more time relaxing and unwinding in the area. You can indulge in a range of water activities including snorkelling and boat trips.

Jambiani Beach:

The sleepy fishing village of Jambiani is located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. It features a beautiful beach with miles of startling white sand and translucent turquoise blue water. The beach is perfect for snorkelling and swimming when the tide is high.  The best time to go swimming is in the morning and in the evening because the water is cooler at this time.  A great way to begin and end your day!

Mnemba Beach:

Located off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, Mnemba Island is a private beach retreat with beachside bandas overlooking the Mnemba Atoll, a white sandy beach, and balmy ocean waters. The beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling. However, you can only enjoy the waters if you are a guest of Mnemba Island Lodge.

Paje Beach:

You can’t but fall in love with Paje Beach! Located on Zanzibar’s east coast, Page features white sand beaches, turquoise warm waters and it’s a perfect spot for swimming. Although, the beach has better depth for swimming; it sometimes have low tide which is really ideal for swimming.

Michamwi Beach:

Located in the southeast corner of Zanzibar, Michamwi Beach is tranquil and scarcely populated, making it one of the Zanzibar’s beaches perfect for swimming at high tide.  It’s a perfect place for a quiet holiday retreat, where you can relax and unwind while experiencing the lifestyle of the locals.  However, you should keep in mind that swimming at low tide is not ideal at Michamwi because there are seaweeds in the water.

Kiwengwa Beach:

Also known as the “Little Italy” of Zanzibar, Kiwengwa features a beautiful coastline lined with Italian-run hotels and resorts.  It is located on the North-east coast of Zanzibar and it has a pristine beach perfect for swimming at high tide. However, it is advisable not to swim at low tide.

Kizimkazi Beach:

If you would like to swim with a dolphin, Kizimkazi beach is a great place to go.  The beach features amazing bottlenose dolphins and other amazing creatures. You can indulge in scuba diving and snorkelling if you want to explore the underwater world.  At the highest tides, you may not see the beach, and at low tide, the ocean is usually far away.

Matemwe Beach:

The unspoilt beach of Matemwe features fine white sands and warm ocean waters in a quiet atmosphere. Swimming here is fantastic at high tide but at low tide, the beach turns into a desert full of coral flats. The village of Matemwe offers a hearty dose of local cultural experiences that you will not forget in a hurry.

Realax and Work on your Tan on the Shores of Zanzibar. If you looking to indulge in some fun in the sun or just unwind and work on your tan, head down to one of these tropical beaches in Zanzibar. Enjoy paradise at it's best!

What are the most favored hotels in Zanzibar ?

We understand that you may want to take your own sweet time to select your safari accommodation. One thing that you must always keep in mind is that different lodges offer different experiences. Some hotels and lodges will only have a low guest occupancy and offer intimate experiences, whereas others will cater to larger groups.

V I P Accommodation: Tulia Zanzibar / Baraza Resort / Qambani Luxury Resort / Kilindi Zanzibar or Similar Accommodation.

Superior Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar Hotel / Verde Hotels / Park Hyatt Zanzibar / Madinat Al Bahri / Gold Beach Resort / Aiyana Resort  /  Breezes Beach Zanzibar or Similar Accommodation.

Luxury Accommodation: Melia Zanzibar / Zanzibar Serena Hotel / Neptune Pwani Beach Resort & Spa  / Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport / Reu Hotel / Anna of Zanzibar or Similar Accommodation.

Mid-Range Accommodation: Tembo Hotel Zanzibar / Konokono Beach Resort / Jafferji House & Spa / Dhow Inn Zanzibar / Zanzibar Coffee House / Maru Maru Hotel / Bluebay Resort Zanzibar / SunshineBay Hotel or Similar Accommodation.

Standard Accommodation: Bety Al Salaam / Dhow palace / Kisiwa House / Smile Beach Hotel / Best Western Plus Zanzibar / Passion Boutique Hotel or Similar Accommodation.

Budget Accommodation:  Aljohari Hotel / Amaan Beach Bungalows / Mnarani Beach Cottage / Fun Beach Hotel or Similar Accommodation.