Best Beaches in Zanzibar: From Nungwi to Kendwa

Zanzibar is famed for its powder-white sands, turquoise waters, and laid-back beach villages. This guide explores the top Zanzibar beaches — from lively Nungwi to idyllic Kendwa — revealing hidden gems, top activities, and insider tips for each shoreline.

1. Nungwi Beach: Vibrant & Picturesque

Located on the northern tip of Unguja, Nungwi Beach ranks as one of the top Zanzibar beaches thanks to its lively atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

• Features: Cliffside views, local dhow boat activity, warm shallow waters for swimming.
• Activities: Sunset dhow cruises, local seafood dining, bike rides into the village.
• Why it’s a top Zanzibar beach: Combination of activity and natural beauty makes it ideal for families and couples alike.

Nearby, quieter spots like Reef Beach offer more seclusion, reinforcing that Nungwi is truly a crown jewel among top Zanzibar beaches.

2. Kendwa Beach: Relaxed & Sunset Bliss

Just west of Nungwi, Kendwa Beach is known for minimal tidal shifts and perfect swimming conditions—a clear standout among top Zanzibar beaches.

• Features: Wide sandy beaches, calm lagoons, open swimming even at low tide.
• Activities: Full moon beach parties, yoga classes, paddleboarding.
• Why it’s a top Zanziba r beach: Laid-back resort vibe, ideal for wellness stays or working from the beach.

With its beautiful coral gardens and consistently calm waters, Kendwa deserves its place among the top Zanzibar beaches.

3. Matemwe & Mnemba Bay: Snorkeling & Tranquility

On the east coast, Matemwe Beach and nearby Mnemba Bay offer prime reef access and serene surroundings — essential entries on the list of top Zanzibar beaches.

• Features: Long beaches backed by coconut palms, access to Mnemba Atoll reef.
• Activities: Snorkeling with turtles, massages under palms, dhow fishing trips.
• Why it’s a top Zanzibar beach: Exceptional marine life and peaceful environment draw eco-conscious travelers.

Mnemba Atoll snorkeling ranks among the highlights of any stay at Matemwe—cementing its reputation among top Zanzibar beaches.

4. Paje Beach: Windsurf & Kite Surf Paradise

Located in southeast Zanzibar, Paje Beach is a wind lover’s haven and a must-visit within the top Zanzibar beaches lineup.

• Features: Shallow lagoon, reliable wind, powdery white sand.
• Activities: Kite surfing lessons, lagoon kayaking, sunset beach cafés.
• Why it’s a top Zanzibar beach: Great for adventure travelers and families looking for water sports.

Paje also hosts vibrant seafood nights and educational turtle-planting projects—adding depth to Zanzibar’s cultural tapestry.

5. Michamvi Peninsula: Scenic & Secluded

Michamvi‘s eastern coast offers two contrasting beaches—Kae and Blue Lagoon—earning it recognition among the top Zanzibar beaches.

• Features: Dramatic coral cliffs, calm saltwater lagoons, stunning sunset views.
• Activities: Cliff dining at sunset, casual beachfront yoga, infrequent day visitors.
• Why it’s a top Zanzibar beach: Quiet luxury and dramatic landscapes cater to romance and relaxation.

Michamvi’s hotels and lodges provide exclusive coastal escapes—perfect for couples or travelers seeking tranquility.

6. Pemba & Mafia Coastline: Hidden Islands, Pure Shores

Venture beyond the main island to find hidden gems on Pemba Island and Mafia Island, both boasting remote coastlines and offering exceptional entries among the top Zanzibar beaches.

• Features: Mangrove forests, tranquil bays, pristine coral reefs away from crowds.
• Activities: Whale shark snorkeling (Mafia), historical island walks, makeshift beach hammock lounging.
• Why it’s a top Zanzibar beach region: Off-grid luxury and solitude attract adventurous travelers pursuing unspoiled beauty.

These islands showcase Zanzibar at its most peaceful—true remote leaders among the top Zanzibar beaches.

7. Stone Town & Prison Island Beach: Culture Meets Coast

Although primarily a cultural hub, Stone Town offers nearby snorkeling and beach access—uniquely qualifying it among top Zanzibar beaches.

• Features: Historical architecture meets relaxed seaside setting.
• Activities: Early morning snorkel on Prison Island, spice farm lunches, sunset walks along Forodhani Gardens.
• Why it’s a top Zanzibar beach destination: Combines Tanzania’s cultural heritage with quick-access shoreline beauty.

For travelers wanting a coastal experience balanced with culture, this area rounds out the full spectrum of top Zanzibar beaches.

Tips for Visiting the Best Zanzibar Beaches

• Time your visit: Peak visibility and weather are June–October and Dec–Feb.
• Respect tides: East Coast experiences greater fluctuations—plan accordingly.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen: Protect coral ecosystems while you explore.
• Support local guides: Choose community-run tours or eco-lodges to give back.

From the sunset skies of Nungwi and Kendwa to the coral reefs off Matemwe, the top Zanzibar beaches offer something for every type of traveler—adventure, wellness, solitude, and culture. Seek the serenity of Michamvi, the energy of Paje, or the history of Stone Town’s coastline—you’ll discover a beach for every mood in Zanzibar.