Situated east of Tanzania, the beautiful island of Zanzibar is renowned for its stunning coastline and white sand beaches. From snorkeling in crystal clear waters to swimming with dolphins, the island has something to offer all visitors in a tropical paradise. Here are seven of the best beaches in Zanzibar that will make your vacation one to remember.
Paje Beach: Best Known for Kitesurfing & Diving
Paje Beach on the stunning southeast coast of Zanzibar is a beach-goers paradise. With its sparkling white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal clear waters, it is the perfect destination for a romantic holiday or an adventurous getaway. The beach is best known for its top-notch kitesurfing and diving opportunities. Kitesurfers flock here from around the world to take advantage of the excellent kitesurfing conditions, while divers can explore the vibrant coral reef and its myriad of sea-life. From turtles, starfish, and trumpet fish to moray eels and other colourful marine species, there is plenty of eye-catching beauty to discover beneath the surface. As the sun goes down, make sure to be at the beach to admire one of nature’s most magnificent spectacles – a stunning Zanzibar sunset.
Bwejuu Beach: Best Known for Relaxation
Bwejuu Beach on the southeast coast of Zanzibar is the perfect destination for those looking for a serene getaway. Located about an hour and a half from Stone Town, this white sand beach is lined with palm trees, providing the perfect backdrop for ultimate relaxation and tranquillity . In addition to just lounging on the beach, you can explore the nearby mangrove forest and take a dhow boat cruise, visit the local town of Bwejuu, go snorkeling and diving, and take a day trip to the Jozani Forest to spot the Red Colobus Monkey. If you’re up for some extra adventure, a reef safari or a visit to Stone Town are also great activities to enjoy. So if you’re looking for a place to recharge and reconnect with yourself, Bwejuu Beach is your perfect destination.
Nungwi Beach: Best Known for being a Lively Beach
Nungwi Beach located on Zanzibar’s west coast is one of the most popular beaches in the world. Recently making TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards 2018 list of the Top 25 Beaches in the World, Nungwi Beach offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a party atmosphere or simply want to relax. The stunning beachfront is lined with beach resorts, hotels, restaurants, and pubs that provide visitors with plenty of nighttime entertainment.
If you’re looking to explore the underwater world, the coral reefs off the coast of Nungwi are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and spotting dolphins, green turtles, and whale sharks during certain times of the year. You can also take a sunset tour on a traditional dhow sailing boat, to admire one of the breathtaking sunsets that Zanzibar has to offer. Whether you’re here to have fun or simply to relax, Nungwi Beach promises a memorable time for all.
Kizimkazi Beach: Best Known for Dolphin Safaris
In the south of Zanzibar, two fishing villages comprised of Kizimkazi Dimbani in the north and Kizimkazi Mkunguni in the south make up the popular destination of Kizimkazi Beach. Known mainly for dolphin safaris, this coastline differs greatly from the typical east coast palm-backed lagoons. When visiting Kizimkazi, travelers are encouraged to opt for the responsibly offered swimming with dolphins rather than boat cruises providing the chance to swim with dolphins.
Michamvi Beach: Best Known for a Remote Coral Lagoon
Located on Zanzibar’s central east coast, Michamvi Peninsula remote and there are plenty of uninhabited beaches to explore, although there are two large beach resorts in the region. Divided into two parts, Michamvi-Pingwe and Michamvi-Kae, the former stretches on the east side with a beautiful coral lagoon, as well as magnificent palm-fringed beaches tucked between the steep coral-rag cliffs. Michamvi-Kae on the west side faces the Chwaka Bay.
Kendwa Beach: Best Known for: Sunsets & Swimming
Situated on the southern end of Zanzibar Island, Kendwa Beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets, swimming, snorkeling and diving. The waters here have a more steady tide than other beaches in the area, providing a more pleasant experience for swimmers. As well as beautiful scenery, Kendwa Beach is home to a dazzling display of starfish which can often be seen off the shore, however it is important to be mindful not to disturb or move the wildlife. After sunset, the beach really comes alive, with vibrant nightlife and idyllic beach parties.
Matemwe Beach: Best known for Local Culture & Scuba Diving
The long, picturesque Matemwe Beach, located on the northern tip of Zanzibar Island, is favored for its fine sand and traditional fishing cottages at the back, allowing an insight into the local culture. Just two kilometers from shore, lies the world-renowned Mnemba Atoll, surrounded by immaculate and easily accessible coral reefs. In addition, the fantastic beach of Matemwe is popular for its world-class scuba diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing and sailing.
Conclusion
From witnessing stunning sunsets to participating in beach parties, the azure waters and white sand beaches of Zanzibar offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for tranquil spots to relax or thrill-seeking adventures, these seven incredible beaches in Zanzibar are sure to make your vacation in this tropical paradise one to remember.
