Beaches
Beaches
Unwind as you bury your toes in the warm white sand, or go active and try snorkeling or kite-surfing at one of Zanzibar's pristine beaches.
BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock.comNungwi Beach
If it's the paradisiacal white sandy beach you came to Zanzibar for, look no further than Nungwi. One of the island's most pristine beaches offers vibrant social life and seclusion at the same time: no wonder it has been getting a lot of international acclaim.
Roberto Binetti/Shutterstock.comKendwa Beach
A few kilometers away from northern Nungwi, Kendwa is a true gem for islanders and tourists alike, with a vibrant nightlife during the monthly Full Moon parties, and heaven-like unspoilt beaches if you head just a bit further south.
Carlo 85/Shutterstock.comNakupenda Beach
A visit to this tiny white sandbank is the best way to finish your trip to Prison Island. Go snorkelling or simply admire the idyllic ambience. Hint: the name of the beach is also useful if you want to get closer to an attractive Zanzibari ("nakupenda" means "I love you" in Swahili).
Obladatel/Shutterstock.comMenai Bay
This secluded southern bay is the largest marine conservation area of Unguja. Tours on traditional dhows are organized regularly to give visitors the chance to spot (and even swim with) some humpback dolphins. The shallow waters too have plenty of marine life for you to diskover.
BBP76000/Shutterstock.comKizimkazi Beach
The magical Kizimkazi Beach on Menai Bay experiences significant tide changes: at low tide, the beach, the reef and tide pools are exposed for you to explore. The dramatic seascape hides exotic marine life. Another popular reason to visit Kizimkazi Beach is to see bottlenose and Indo-Pacific dolphins that feed in the bay. While there, check out the oldest East African Shirazi Dimbai mosque (dated 1107) and spend some time gazing at the star-filled night skies with close to no light pollution.
O.Mustafin/Public Domain/WikimediaPaje Beach
The beach is a buzzing stretch of the otherwise sleepy fishing village of Paje, sought after for its excellent opportunities for kite-surfing. Visitors are very welcome to join the fun football games — a major pastime for the locals.
Matej Kastelic/Shutterstock.comJambiani Village
Southeast of Jozani forest, Jambiani is a tranquil village renowned for its white unspoilt beach and seaweed plants, where a remarkable quantity is farmed of what is Zanzibar's key export.
Marius Dobilas/Shutterstock.comEast Coast — Bwejuu, Dongwe & Pingwe Beaches
The southeastern beaches of Bwejuu, Dongwe and Pingwe are a true tropical postcard paradise, except during Christmas when it is affected by seaweed cover. The area is not too developed, so you'll have ample opportunity to disconnect and relax. Bwejuu Beach is considered one of Zanzibar's finest beaches with a serene, laid-back village vibe. You can find moments of solitude on this long sandy stretch. However, Bwejuu Beach is conveniently located close to the highly trafficked tourist spots. Dongwe Beach is another beautiful white sand beach lined with gorgeous palm trees. You can spend a lazy day in one of the cozy beach huts, swim, go paddleboarding or kayaking in the mangroves. When the tide is low, try snorkelling to see shells and small marine animals. The white sand of Pingwe Beach is close to the spice farm that grows ginger, chili, vanilla and lemongrass. Many guided tours will give you opportunity to explore the many bars and restaurants here.
Naumov Andrei/cc by-sa 4.0/WikimediaPongwe Beach
The secluded and serene Pongwe Beach is perfect for a romantic getaway. The beach is rather remote and doesn't have excessively developed tourist infrastructure, so make sure to book your stay in advance. Spend your days relaxing and reading books, meditating, napping in a hammock or taking long walks. Dhow sailing is a bit attraction here, as well.
Rasheed hamis/cc by-sa 4.0/WikimediaKiwengwa Beach
Kiwengwa is the best fit for all-inclusive resort lovers. The beach is great for families with children and you get relatively few "beach boys". Quadricycle tours, Kiwengwa Pongwe forest hikes and culinary tours are only some of the activities available here.
AliceMartinelli8/cc by-sa 4.0/Wikimedia