Simba Tours
Zanzibar

Zanzibar Beaches

Which beach suits you? Honestly compared by people who live there.

Tanzania + Zanzibar →Request a proposal

Nungwi

Northern tipLively & social

Best for

Swimming, nightlife, sunset

Tide

Little tidal variation — always swimmable

Crowds

●●●

Pros

  • +No tidal issue
  • +Many restaurants and bars
  • +Turtle sanctuary present
  • +Beautiful sunset

Cons

  • –Busiest beach in Zanzibar
  • –Many vendors at the entrance

Kendwa

Northwest coastRelaxed & romantic

Best for

Couples, snorkelling, full moon party

Tide

Small tidal variations — usually swimmable

Crowds

●●○

Pros

  • +Quieter than Nungwi
  • +Beautiful white sand
  • +Good snorkelling spots nearby
  • +Monthly full moon party

Cons

  • –Fewer facilities than Nungwi
  • –Can be busy during full moon

Paje

Southeast coastKitesurfing & backpackers

Best for

Kitesurfing, young crowd, budget

Tide

Strong tidal variation — long walk at low tide

Crowds

●●○

Pros

  • +Best kitesurfing destination in East Africa
  • +Fun atmosphere, many other travellers
  • +Affordable accommodation available
  • +Beautiful coral reefs at high tide

Cons

  • –No swimming at low tide
  • –Less quiet and exclusive

Matemwe

Northeast coastExclusive & quiet

Best for

Luxury honeymoon, diving, seclusion

Tide

Tidal variation present — plan swim times

Crowds

●○○

Pros

  • +Quiet and exclusive
  • +View of Mnemba Atoll (best diving spot)
  • +White coral sand
  • +Little mass tourism

Cons

  • –More expensive than other beaches
  • –Fewer shops and restaurants

Tips for your beach visit

  • 1.Zanzibar has a strong tidal rhythm. On the east coast (Paje, Matemwe) the difference is greatest. Plan your swimming based on the tide schedule.
  • 2.The best snorkelling spots are around Mnemba Atoll (northeast), Chumbe Island (west) and the reefs off Nungwi.
  • 3.Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — always combine your beach visit with at least half a day in the city.
  • 4.June–August is the driest season on Zanzibar. March–May are the long rains — beach but often cloudy.

Quick comparison

Beach
Swimming
Vibe
Best for
Price
Nungwi
★★★★★
Lively
Everyone
€€€
Kendwa
★★★★☆
Romantic
Couples
€€€
Paje
★★☆☆☆
Active
Kitesurfers
€€
Matemwe
★★★☆☆
Exclusive
Luxury couples
€€€€€

"We hesitated for a long time between Nungwi and Matemwe. Allard advised Matemwe for our honeymoon — and it was perfect. No tourists, just us and the turquoise water."

SJ

Sophie & Joris

Honeymoon Tanzania & Zanzibar, 2025

Frequently asked questions

What is the best beach for a honeymoon?+
For a honeymoon we recommend Matemwe — quiet, exclusive with views over Mnemba Atoll. Kendwa is a romantic alternative if you want more facilities.
Which beach is best for children?+
Nungwi is most child-friendly: little tidal variation, always swimmable, and the turtle sanctuary is a hit. Kendwa is a quieter alternative with beautiful sand.
How far are the beaches from Stone Town?+
Nungwi is about 65 km north of Stone Town (approx. 1.5 hours drive). Paje and Matemwe are on the east coast, also approx. 1–1.5 hours. Direct shuttles are available.
When is the swimming water calmest?+
On the west coast (Nungwi, Kendwa) the water is calmest from June to October. On the east coast (Paje, Matemwe) the water is always livelier — perfect for kitesurfing but less suitable for young children.
Is Zanzibar safe for solo travellers?+
Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe. We advise women to cover shoulders and knees outside the beach and resort out of respect for the local Muslim culture. Avoid evening walks on isolated beaches.

Combine safari + Zanzibar?

We arrange everything — from the Serengeti to Nungwi beach. One travel proposal, no middlemen.

Request travel proposal →More about Tanzania + Zanzibar