Best Beaches in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is famous for white sand, turquoise water and palm-lined beaches – but not every part of the island offers the same experience.
Some beaches are perfect for swimming and sunsets, others are shaped much more strongly by the tides. Some are lively, while others are ideal if you are looking for peace and quiet.
Here are some of the best beaches in Zanzibar and what makes each of them worth visiting.
1. Kendwa Beach
If we had to recommend just one beach in the north of Zanzibar, Kendwa would be high on our list.
Kendwa is one of the best beaches in Zanzibar for swimming, relaxing and watching the sunset.
Located on the northwest coast, Kendwa is known for its wide stretch of white sand, clear water and beautiful sunsets. Compared with many beaches on Zanzibar’s east coast, the effect of the tides is less dramatic here, making swimming possible for much more of the day.
The atmosphere is generally relaxed, although you will also find beach restaurants, bars and water activities.
For guests staying at M&M Villas Zanzibar, Kendwa is particularly convenient because it is close enough to enjoy regularly rather than only as a day trip.
2. Nungwi Beach
Nungwi is one of Zanzibar’s best-known beach destinations and has a completely different character from quieter parts of the island.
The beach is surrounded by restaurants, bars, hotels and plenty of activity on and around the water. Traditional boats, fishing vessels and dhows are part of the scenery, and there is usually something happening.
Nungwi is a good choice if you want to combine a beach day with restaurants, drinks or an evening out.
Like Kendwa, its location on the northern end of the island also makes it attractive for swimming and, particularly, for watching the sunset.
3. Paje Beach
Paje, on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, is the place to go if your idea of a beach holiday includes a little more action.
It is particularly famous for kitesurfing. The combination of wind, warm water and a huge shallow lagoon has made Paje one of the island’s main water-sports destinations.
The tides are much more noticeable here than in Kendwa or Nungwi. At low tide, the ocean can retreat a considerable distance, completely changing the appearance of the beach.
That is not necessarily a disadvantage – it is simply a very different Zanzibar beach experience.
Paje also has plenty of cafés, restaurants and beach bars, giving the area a lively international atmosphere.
4. Jambiani Beach
A little farther south from Paje, Jambiani offers a quieter atmosphere.
The long beach and traditional village setting make it a good place to experience the southeast coast at a slower pace. Here too, the tides play a major role in daily life and dramatically change the landscape throughout the day.
Jambiani is particularly appealing if you enjoy long beach walks, smaller restaurants and a more relaxed environment.
It is also an interesting contrast to the busier northern beaches.
5. Matemwe Beach
Matemwe lies on Zanzibar’s northeast coast and is known for its long beach and views towards the Mnemba area.
The atmosphere is generally quieter than Nungwi or Paje, making Matemwe a good option if you want to spend a peaceful day on the coast.
It is also a popular starting point for boat trips and snorkeling excursions around Mnemba.
One important distinction: Mnemba itself is a private island. Most visitors experience the area from the water on snorkeling and diving excursions rather than visiting the island’s beach.
6. Bwejuu Beach
Bwejuu is another beautiful option on Zanzibar’s southeast coast.
It is considerably quieter than Paje and is a good choice for travellers looking for long walks, palm trees and a slower pace.
As elsewhere on the east coast, the tides are very noticeable. Instead of expecting perfect swimming conditions throughout the entire day, enjoy the changing landscape – it is part of what makes this side of Zanzibar so distinctive.
North or East Coast – Which Is Better?
There is no single answer because the two sides of Zanzibar offer very different experiences.
If swimming, sunsets and easy access to restaurants and activities are important to you, Kendwa and Nungwi are excellent choices.
If you prefer kitesurfing, long tidal beaches and a more laid-back coastal atmosphere, explore Paje, Jambiani, Matemwe or Bwejuu.
And you do not have to choose only one.
Staying in the north and taking a day trip to the east coast is a great way to see how varied Zanzibar really is.
Beaches Near M&M Villas Zanzibar
M&M Villas Zanzibar is located in Kidoti in the north of the island, with Kendwa and Nungwi within easy reach.
This means our guests can enjoy the quieter atmosphere at the hotel while still having convenient access to two of Zanzibar’s most popular beach areas.
Our team can also help with transport and recommendations if you would like to explore other parts of the island during your stay.
Whether you spend your day swimming in Kendwa, watching the sunset in Nungwi or exploring the tidal beaches of the east coast, Zanzibar has a beach for almost every kind of traveller.
