Best Beaches in Zanzibar: Which Coast to Choose

Nungwi, on the north coast, is one of Zanzibar’s most popular beaches.

Zanzibar is famous for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But they are not all the same: each has its own character, tides, and atmosphere. This guide to the best beaches in Zanzibar helps you choose the right stretch of sand for your holiday.

Understanding Zanzibar’s coasts and tides

Before picking a beach, it helps to know that tides vary a lot around the island. On the north coast, the water stays deep enough to swim at all tides. On the east and southeast coasts, the tide goes out a long way, revealing beautiful sandflats but limiting swimming at low tide. Neither is better, they simply suit different holidays, so it is worth choosing with your priorities in mind.

Nungwi Beach (north)

Nungwi, at the island’s northern tip, is one of Zanzibar’s most popular and lively beaches. It offers swimmable water at all tides, gorgeous sunsets, and a wide choice of restaurants, bars, and water sports. It strikes a great balance between relaxation and life around you, making it ideal for first-time visitors and anyone who likes some buzz with their beach.

Kendwa Beach (north)

Just around the coast from Nungwi, Kendwa is a little more relaxed while sharing the same swimmable, all-tide water and famous sunsets. It is known for its wide, soft sand and laid-back beach vibe, and it is a favourite for sunset views and the occasional full-moon celebration.

Paje Beach (southeast)

Paje, on the southeast coast, is Zanzibar’s kitesurfing capital.

Paje, on the southeast coast, is a long, wide, white-sand beach with a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. It is the island’s kitesurfing capital, thanks to steady winds and shallow water, and it draws a young, active crowd. Even if you don’t kitesurf, it is a beautiful, sociable base with a good choice of cafés and casual places to stay.

Bwejuu & Kiwengwa (east)

The east coast beaches like Bwejuu offer peace and privacy.

For peace and privacy, the east coast is hard to beat. Bwejuu and Kiwengwa offer spotless white sand, swaying palms, and a tranquil, uncrowded feel. These beaches are ideal for couples and anyone wanting to unwind away from the busier spots. The tide is more pronounced here, which many visitors love for long barefoot walks across the flats.

Which beach is right for you?

In short: choose the north coast (Nungwi, Kendwa) for swimming at all tides, sunsets, and a lively scene; choose Paje for water sports and a stylish, active vibe; and choose the east coast (Bwejuu, Kiwengwa, Matemwe) for peace, privacy, and romance. Many visitors combine two areas in one trip to enjoy the best of both.

Beyond the beach

Wherever you base yourself, Zanzibar’s beaches are a springboard to more. You can snorkel coral reefs, take a Safari Blue dhow trip, spot dolphins, or explore historic Stone Town. See our Zanzibar excursions for the full range of things to do.

Plan your Zanzibar beach holiday

Once you’ve chosen your beach, we’ll handle the rest, from transfers to excursions. Read our Zanzibar beach holiday guide, see where to stay, or contact us to plan your perfect trip.