Zanzibar Beaches by Region: Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani and Matemwe
Zanzibar's coast changes with the tides, so the right beach depends on what you want to do.
The north of Zanzibar, around Nungwi and Kendwa, has beaches that stay swimmable at all tides, with lively beach bars at sunset. The east coast, from Paje to Jambiani, has wide tidal flats, kite-surfing and seaweed farms where women work at low tide.
Matemwe offers quieter resorts and boat trips to Mnemba Atoll for snorkelling. See the Zanzibar and Stone Town guide and combine it with a safari on our bush and beach holiday.
This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.
At a glance
- North: Nungwi and Kendwa
- East: Paje and Jambiani
- Northeast: Matemwe and Mnemba
- Best for kite-surfing: Paje
North Coast
Calm water and sunsets, with many hotels and restaurants. Suitable for swimming at all times.
East Coast
Low tide exposes sand flats, so plan swimming time. Paje is a hub for kite-surfing, and Jambiani is quieter with local life.
Choosing a Base
Stay on the north for swimming and nightlife, the east for activities, Matemwe for quiet. See Stone Town and spice tours for culture days.
Adding Tanzania to a Uganda safari? Tell us your dates and we will arrange one itinerary with flights, transfers and lodges for both countries.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Zanzibar and Stone Town: Beaches, History and Combining With a Safari
- Stone Town, Spice Tours and Jozani Forest: Zanzibar's Culture Days
- Uganda Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday
- Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Safari Seasons, Kilimanjaro Weather and Zanzibar
- Tanzania Northern vs Southern Circuit: Which Safari Route Should You Choose?
- Tanzania Safari and Travel Guides: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar
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