Top 5 Beaches in Zanzibar: Paradise Awaits in 2025

Zanzibar is a tropical island in Tanzania, famous for its white sand beaches and clear blue waters. If you are planning a beach holiday in Africa, Zanzibar is the perfect place. In this guide, we will show you the Top 5 beaches in Zanzibar that you should not miss in 2025.

Whether you are dreaming of relaxing under palm trees, swimming in turquoise water, or enjoying fresh seafood, these beaches will make your trip unforgettable.

Why Visit Zanzibar Beaches?

Zanzibar is more than just an island. It’s a peaceful escape where you can relax, explore, and enjoy nature. Here are some reasons why people love Zanzibar beaches:

Soft white sand and warm waters
Beautiful coral reefs for snorkeling and diving
Romantic sunsets and peaceful views
Friendly people and rich Swahili culture
Fresh seafood and tropical fruits

Now, let’s take a look at the top 5 beaches in Zanzibar that you should visit.

1. Nungwi Beach – Best All-Round Beach

Sunset at Nungwi Beach Zanzibar with traditional dhow boat

Nungwi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Zanzibar. Located in the north of the island, it’s known for its stunning sunsets, soft sand, and clear waters.

Why Nungwi Beach is Special:

Perfect for swimming all day (no big tides)
Lots of activities like snorkeling, diving, and boat trips
Many restaurants, beach bars, and luxury resorts
Great place to watch local fishermen and traditional dhow boats

Best Time to Visit:

June to October is dry and sunny, perfect for beach fun.

Travel Tip:

Stay in a beachfront lodge for amazing ocean views. Try a sunset dhow cruise – it’s magical!

2. Kendwa Beach – Best for Parties and Relaxing

Tourists enjoying beach party at Kendwa Beach Zanzibar

Just 10 minutes from Nungwi, Kendwa Beach is famous for its calm waters and vibrant nightlife.

Why Kendwa Beach is Special:

Great for swimming any time of day
Hosts the famous Kendwa Full Moon Party
Soft, wide beach – perfect for sunbathing and beach games
Mix of budget and luxury stays

Best Time to Visit:

Come during the full moon for the big beach party, or weekdays if you want peace.

Travel Tip:

Kendwa is ideal for young travelers and couples who enjoy both relaxation and fun.

3. Paje Beach – Best for Kitesurfing and Backpackers

Colorful kites flying over Paje Beach Zanzibar with clear blue skies

Paje Beach is on the east coast of Zanzibar. It’s a favorite spot for kitesurfers, digital nomads, and backpackers.

Why Paje Beach is Special:

Strong winds make it perfect for kitesurfing
Chill vibes with small beach cafes and hostels
Clear shallow waters ideal for wading and swimming
Great for solo travelers and adventurers

Best Time to Visit:

Best winds are from June to September and December to February.

Travel Tip:

Try a kite lesson or enjoy a smoothie at one of the beach shacks while watching the action.

4. Matemwe Beach – Best for Privacy and Snorkeling

Snorkeling boat trip at Matemwe Beach Zanzibar near Mnemba Island

Matemwe Beach is a quiet and peaceful beach, great for couples, honeymooners, or anyone who loves privacy.

Why Matemwe Beach is Special:

Close to Mnemba Atoll, one of Zanzibar’s best snorkeling spots
Fewer crowds – great for relaxing
Lovely small resorts and boutique hotels
Beautiful views and peaceful walks

Best Time to Visit:

Visit in the dry season, especially from June to October.

Travel Tip:

Take a snorkeling trip to Mnemba Island – you might see dolphins!

5. Jambiani Beach – Best for Culture and Local Life

Fishermen pulling nets at Jambiani Beach Zanzibar with villagers watching

Jambiani Beach is a beautiful stretch on the southeast coast. It’s a place where you can enjoy the beach and learn about local Swahili culture.

Why Jambiani Beach is Special:

Experience real Zanzibar life with friendly locals
Perfect for peaceful beach walks
Watch or join in seaweed farming and fishing
Great local guesthouses and eco-lodges

Best Time to Visit:

Visit from July to October for the best weather and calm sea.

Travel Tip:

Join a cultural village tour to learn about seaweed farming, cooking, and traditions.

How to Get to Zanzibar Beaches

Most travelers arrive at Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ). From there, you can take a taxi, private transfer, or bus to your beach of choice.

Approximate travel times from the airport:

Nungwi/Kendwa: 1.5 – 2 hours
Paje/Jambiani: 1 – 1.5 hours
Matemwe: 1 hour

Tips for Visiting Zanzibar Beaches

Here are some simple tips to help you enjoy your beach holiday:

Pack light clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen
Respect local culture – wear modest clothes in villages
Carry cash – many small places don’t accept cards
Drink bottled water and try local seafood dishes like octopus curry
Don’t forget mosquito repellent, especially in the evening

Things to Do Near the Beaches

Zanzibar is not just about beaches. You can also enjoy:

Stone Town Tour – Discover history and culture
Spice Tour – Visit local farms and taste spices
Prison Island – See giant tortoises and snorkel
Dhow Cruise – Sail into the sunset
Jozani Forest – See rare Red Colobus monkeys

Where to Stay in Zanzibar

Depending on your beach choice, you’ll find something for every budget:

Budget:

Drifters Backpackers (Paje)
Jambiani White Sands (Jambiani)

Mid-Range:

Aluna Nungwi
Matemwe Beach Village

Luxury:

Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa)
Kisiwa on the Beach (Paje)
Matemwe Retreat (Matemwe)

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar Beaches

The best months are:

June to October – Dry season, sunny and perfect
December to February – Warm, sunny, a bit more humid

Avoid March to May – It’s rainy and wet.

Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

To protect Zanzibar’s beauty:

Don’t litter on the beach
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Support local businesses
Choose eco-lodges that care about nature

Plan Your Zanzibar Beach Holiday with Seko Tours

At Seko Tours Adventures, we help travelers like you plan the perfect Zanzibar trip. Whether you want a romantic beach escape, a family beach holiday, or a fun beach-and-safari combo – we can help.

✅ Local expertise
✅ Custom packages
✅ Trusted service with a smile

Plan your dream Zanzibar beach vacation with Seko Tours today!

FAQs – Top 5 Beaches in Zanzibar

1. Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?
Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe. Just follow normal travel safety tips.

2. Can I swim in the ocean in Zanzibar?
Yes! Most beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje are perfect for swimming.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Zanzibar?
Yes, many travelers need a Tanzanian visa. Check with your embassy or apply online.

4. Is Zanzibar expensive?
Zanzibar has options for all budgets – from cheap guesthouses to luxury resorts.

5. What language is spoken in Zanzibar?
Swahili is the main language, but many people speak English in tourist areas.

Final Summary

Zanzibar is a paradise waiting for you. From the lively shores of Nungwi and Kendwa, to the chill vibes of Paje, the peaceful Matemwe, and cultural Jambiani, each beach offers something special.

Whether you want fun, adventure, or total relaxation, the top 5 beaches in Zanzibar have it all.

So, pack your bag, grab your sunglasses, and let’s go to Zanzibar!