Zanzibar is the beautiful paradise of the Indian Ocean, located off the mainland of Tanzania on the Eastern Coast of Africa.
This archipelago of small and large islands is known for its slave trade history dating back to the 19th century and its organic spices, owing to the extensive spice and clove plantations.
The area is undoubtedly endowed with jaw-dropping islands, colorful corals, exotic sea creatures, and secluded and tranquil beaches.
Top Zanzibar Beaches
Explore the list of the best beaches in Zanzibar to relax, undertake adventurous water sports, and discover stupendous places to stay.
1. Bwejuu Beach
Bwejuu is a white sandy beach located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, a 90-minute drive from Stone Town.
It is characterized by a palm-fringed shoreline, offering total unwinding, seclusion, and peace.
Visitors to this place can also enjoy interesting activities and excursions, such as village/community visits, dhow trips, guided walks through the mangrove forest, snorkeling, diving, day trips to Jozani Forest, reef safaris, and tours of Stone Town.
Some of the best places to stay here are Breezes Beach Club, The Palms, and Baraza Resort and Spa.
2. Kizimkazi Beach
Kizimkazi Beach is a small fishing village set on the south coast of the island, comprising two amazing settlements: Kizimkazi-Mkunguni to the south and Kizimkazi-Dimbani to the north.
While on this beach, a coral rag cliff raises the waterfront above the ocean, and the beaches are in the form of small coves instead of an extension of sand.
Visitors can enjoy boat trips, swimming with dolphins, dolphin safaris, and much more.
Ungula Lodge and The Residence Zanzibar are some of the popular resorts around Kizimkazi Beach.
3. Nungwi Beach
Nungwi Beach is situated on the north coast and is praised as one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar.
It boasts outstanding turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and a remarkable backdrop for vacations and photography.
For visitors looking for amazing views, unwinding, seclusion, and solitude surrounded by spectacular beauty, Nungwi Beach is the place to be.
Visitors to this spectacular beach can stay at Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar.
4. Pongwe Beach
The list of best beaches in Zanzibar is incomplete without Pongwe Beach.
The quiet and peaceful beach of Pongwe is fringed with palm trees and backed by verdant thick vegetation.
This hidden gem is popular for swimming in calm waters, thanks to an offshore reef that keeps the inner waters calm and safe.
Adventurous activities such as boat rides and snorkeling can be organized here, and for those who wish to spend the night, Pongwe Beach Hotel is the best place to stay.
5. Kiwengwa Beach
Dubbed “little Italy,” Kiwengwa Beach on the East Coast is another excellent beach in Zanzibar.
Its nickname comes from the fact that it was long occupied by Italian-managed resorts and hotels.
It is greatly affected by low tide, making it an ideal place for vacationers who wish to paddle in the shallow and crystal-clear waters while enjoying a cold tropical drink.
6. Kendwa Beach
Nestled about 3 kilometers from Nungwi is Kendwa Beach, often described by its azure waters and sometimes known as the “little sister” of Nungwi Beach.
It is more private and quieter than Nungwi and is one of the few beaches with unchanging tides.
If swimming and capturing mind-blowing sunsets are your ideas of a beach, then Kendwa Beach is a must-visit.
7. Matemwe Beach
The extended and picturesque Matemwe Beach is the longest beach in Zanzibar and takes pride in its fine sand and palm-fringed island.
Close to the beach are traditional fishing villages that reward travelers with insight into the mind-boggling local culture.
The main reef is about 2 kilometers offshore, where you will find the popular Mnemba Island, an ideal spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and kite surfing.
This beautiful beach also boasts amazing places to stay, including Mnemba Island Lodge and Matemwe Lodge, among others.
8. Michamvi Beach
Set on the Central Coast of the outstanding island is Michamvi Beach, offering remoteness and tranquility to visitors.
There are two areas on this beach: Michamvi-Kae and Michamvi-Pingwe.
The eastern side of the latter features a beautiful coral lagoon and palm-fringed beaches, while the western side of Michamvi-Kae faces towards Chwaka Bay.
Z Hotel, Kichanga Lodge, and Konokono Beach Resort are some of the excellent places to stay around Michamvi Beach.
9. Paje Beach
Sprawled on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, stunning Paje Beach has everything for a perfect beach experience.
Exquisite sunsets, palm trees swaying in the breeze, a vast stretch of white sand, and turquoise waters – Paje has it all.
While it is adjacent to a small village on one side, it stands out for its quietness and tranquility.
If you are looking for a quieter option for water sports such as kite surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling, then Paje Beach is your next safari destination.
Other phenomenal beaches in Zanzibar include Fumba Beach, Jambiani Beach, Nakupenda Beach, Bawe Island, Pemba Island, and Dongwe Beach, among others.