Top Coastal Destinations in Zanzibar

Select the perfect beach for your Zanzibar getaway from the endless stretches of pristine white sand. The diversity of Zanzibar is captivating and resilient, ranging from the exhilarating kitesurfing haven of Paje to the delightful fishing traditions found in Kizimkazi.

Paje Beach: Renowned for its thrilling kitesurfing and captivating diving experiences

Paje Beach, found on Zanzibar’s southeastern coast, boasts expansive white sand, palm trees dancing in the breeze, sparkling clear waters, and stunning sunsets—all the defining features of an idyllic Zanzibar beach.

Paje Beach is renowned for its exhilarating water sports. On this island, kitesurfers travel from distant places to experience the ideal conditions for kiteboarding.

The offshore reefs teem with vibrant marine life, featuring turtles, starfish, trumpet fish, moray eels, and countless others, creating ideal conditions for exhilarating scuba diving in the warm, crystal-clear waters.

Bwejuu Beach: A Haven for Serenity

Bwejuu undoubtedly stands out as one of the finest beaches in Zanzibar. The southeast coast of the island boasts a stunning white sand beach adorned with swaying palm trees, located just 1.5 hours away from Stone Town.

Individuals in search of complete tranquility, calmness, and seclusion frequently gravitate towards this area, as it stands out as one of the most serene spots on Zanzibar.

Explore the wonders of mangrove forest tours, embark on dhow boat cruises, and venture out to the charming Bwejuu town, among the many exciting activities offered in the area. Stone Town excursions, snorkeling, scuba diving, and reef safaris await your exploration. The Jozani Forest, home to the Red Colobus Monkey, offers an exciting option for a day trip.

Nungwi Beach: Unforgettable Renowned for its vibrant shoreline

Nestled on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, Nungwi Beach is a breathtaking destination that recently earned a spot among the world’s 25 best, as recognized by TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards 2018.

Nungwi is a vibrant district on the island, bustling with beach resorts, hotels, restaurants, and pubs that provide an exciting array of nightly entertainment. This beach offers more than just a place for revelers.

Exploring the vibrant coral reefs off Nungwi’s shore offers an exhilarating chance to encounter dolphins, green turtles, and whale sharks, varying with the seasons. Sunsets on Nungwi Beach, which faces west, are among the most breathtaking in Zanzibar, and a journey there aboard a traditional dhow sailing boat is an experience you won’t want to overlook.

Kizimkazi Beach: Renowned for Exciting Dolphin Safaris

Kizimkazi Dimbani and Kizimkazi Mkunguni are two vibrant sections of a quaint fishing community nestled along the southern coast of Zanzibar. This stretch of shoreline offers a striking contrast to the typical palm-fringed lagoons of the East Coast.

Visitors to the town of Kizimkazi frequently embark on thrilling dolphin safaris. However, if you’re planning a trip to Kizimkazi, be aware that boat tours offering the chance to swim with dolphins may not be the best choice. I suggest choosing tour companies that prioritize ethical dolphin swimming experiences.

Michamvi Beach: Renowned for its Secluded Coral Lagoon

On the eastern central shore of the island, you will discover the captivating peninsula known as Michamvi. Even with two grand beach resorts nearby, Michamvi exudes a feeling of privacy and invites exploration of its vast, untouched beaches.

Two regions of the peninsula are recognized as Michamvi-Pingwe and Michamvi-Kae. On the eastern side, you’ll discover Michamvi-Pingwe, a destination boasting a lively coral lagoon and breathtaking palm-fringed beaches nestled between rugged outcrops. On the west side, Michamvi-Kae greets the enchanting waters of Chwaka Bay.

Kendwa Beach: Renowned for its Stunning Sunsets & Invigorating Swimming

This premier beach in Zanzibar is a paradise for swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers alike. This beach on Zanzibar boasts some of the most consistent tides you will find.

Just offshore from this Zanzibar beach, you might spot some vividly colored starfish; however, it is important to refrain from touching or disturbing these marine creatures while they thrive in their natural environment.

Head to Kendwa Beach as the sun sets for an experience that will leave you in awe. The vibrant nightlife and laid-back beach parties awaken the shore as the sun sets.

Matemwe Beach: Renowned for its Vibrant Culture & Scuba Diving Matemwe boasts

Zanzibar’s longest beach, featuring a stunning expanse of sand that is among the island’s best. Behind the beach, tucked away among the palm trees, are traditional fishing homes that provide an intriguing glimpse into the island’s culture.

Stunning and easily reachable coral reefs surround the famous Mnemba Atoll, located just two kilometers offshore, beyond the main reef. Matemwe Beach is an incredible destination for kitesurfing, sailing, and diving—truly, some of the island’s premier water sports.

Are the beaches in Zanzibar beautiful?

The Zanzibar archipelago features stunningly beautiful beaches that captivate the spirit of exploration. There are several beaches here, including Nakupenda Beach, which stands out as an exceptional experience. The ward Nakupenda in Kiswahili translates to “I love you,” and this enchanting beach will undoubtedly fill you with warmth both inside and out.

Which area of Zanzibar boasts the finest beaches?

The Zanzibar archipelago is a stunning haven, boasting an array of beaches scattered throughout the island. Nungwi beach in the north is truly a breathtaking destination. Nungwi beach presents a stunning expanse of soft white sand perfect for long strolls, inviting turquoise waters ideal for safe swimming, and exhilarating boat rides that captivate the senses. The beach ranks as the third largest settlement in the Zanzibar Archipelago and has been recognized by CNN as one of the top 100 beaches in the world.

Top Destinations in Zanzibar

Tulia Zanzibar Extraordinary Beach Resort

This breathtaking beach resort on the eastern shore of the island, Pongwe, has been recognized as the Best Luxury Romantic Beach Resort 2023 by the Luxury Hotel Awards. As you step into your breathtaking room, you will discover a private terrace offering views of lush tropical greenery or a secluded beach with immaculate white sand.

Savor refreshing drinks from the minibar or indulge in a cup of Nespresso coffee in your room before diving into your yoga session or an hour-long full-body massage.

The Residence Zanzibar

While the 66 brick bungalows with brown tiles at The Residence Zanzibar may not radiate luxury, the careful craftsmanship guarantees they possess a unique charm. In the bathroom, you’ll discover a selection of pure coconut body care products, and on the nightstand, a bowl of fresh truffles awaits you.

Each villa boasts a plunge pool nestled on its vast hardwood terrace. Guests can embark on a culinary journey with a delightful selection of Indian, Omani, and African dishes in the Dining Room, along with an enticing variety of Middle Eastern offerings at the poolside Pavilion. The resort boasts a stunning view of a pristine mile-long beach, meticulously maintained each day. The beach is a soft, inviting hue.

The Sands Beach Resort Zanzibar

To ensure that your experience at Sands Beach Resort Zanzibar is seamless, the resort has embraced this concept as its guiding principle. Nestled on the eastern coast of Zanzibar, this charming resort features 12 acres of lush tropical gardens and offers only 20 suites and villas.

Seaview Villas offer distinct outdoor showers and private patios that overlook the expansive stretch of Dongwe’s pristine white sand beach. With sandals set aside, plunge into the nearby coral reef for an exhilarating snorkeling adventure surrounded by a kaleidoscope of vibrant marine life.

DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Zanzibar

The northern island of Nungwi showcases a captivating blend of modern life and rich traditions, especially at the Zanzibar location of a renowned hotel brand.

This Zanzibar beach resort boasts an array of exceptional features, including an outdoor freshwater pool, a fitness center, live entertainment, and a luxurious spa. Just a short stroll from the palm-leaf roofs of the hotel, the stunning beach comes alive with locals fishing and crafting dhows, keeping their timeless traditions vibrant.

Next Paradise Boutique Resort

Not everyone shares the same thrill of spending an entire day relaxing on a sunlounger by the pool. This Zanzibar beach resort offers an abundance of excitement and is perfectly situated next to Zanzibar Extreme Water Sports, where you can dive into the exhilarating wonders of the Indian Ocean.

In the area surrounding Mnemba Island and its safeguarded coral reefs, you can experience jet skiing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, or waterskiing. With 25 suites and villas that gaze out over the sea, guests can relax with a drink in hand and take pleasure in the hotel’s four pools.

Baraza Resort & Spa Zanzibar is a place where every moment invites exploration and excitement.

The wood furnishings, Omani trunks, and brass lamps at this Zanzibar beach resort were all uniquely crafted for the hotel by the owners.

Thirty villas featuring one or two bedrooms come with plunge pools that overlook the vibrant gardens or the exclusive 240-meter stretch of Bwejuu beach. This spa offers a variety of treatments, including facials and Thai massages, all set against a backdrop of stunning golden mosaic flooring. To assist you in working off those delicious meals, there are tennis courts and a kids club waiting for you.

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a destination brimming with excitement and exploration.

The 2023 World Luxury Hotels Continent winner Zanzibar White Sands Luxury Villas on Paje Beach offers an idyllic escape with its soft white sands and sparkling clear waters.

At the resort, you can discover eleven unique villas, each boasting its own pool, dedicated butler, and ample space for ultimate privacy.

Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort

Explore Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort for an extraordinary getaway. Whether you’re organizing a family getaway or a romantic escape, our resort on the stunning tropical island of Zanzibar in Nungwi is the ideal destination.

Discover the island of Zanzibar and dive into its vibrant culture and fascinating history.

Nungwi Beach is an incredible destination in Zanzibar, where you can immerse yourself in relaxation or dive into a variety of exciting activities offered by the resort. Regardless of how you spend your time at our luxurious five-star resort, you are sure to depart with a treasure trove of memories and an irresistible urge to come back.