Top 5 Beaches In Zanzibar For Swimming

Top 5 Beaches In Zanzibar For Swimming : Zanzibar has evolved into an idyllic tropical island in East Africa. The white-sand beaches and the azure blue water of the Indian Ocean make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean while you’re not.

Zanzibar is a relaxing escape and a beautiful cultural hotspot for exploring African culture. From private beaches to isolated islands, Zanzibar is an exotic destination for beach holidays. The beaches are unique, and each beach is close to luxurious resorts.

If you plan to visit Zanzibar and know little or no beaches, this article is for you. This article will walk you through the top beaches you should not miss on your next adventure to Tanzania.

#1. Nungwi Beach

Nungwi is one of the best beaches in the north of Zanzibar. It is not tidal compared to other beaches in the south. Therefore, swimming is rewarding. Swimmers always enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Nungwi’s powdered white sand is convincing to sunbathe before diving back into the waters.

Besides swimming, Nungwi is the best place for diving, snorkeling, and Nungwi village tours. Nungwi village is home to vibrant indigenous people. You can learn about traditional weaving, dhow building, and buying fish in the fish market.

Beginners can learn to swim on this beach while experienced swimmers can perfect their experience. Nungwi is a jewel for vibrant nightlife. You should choose it if you need a vibe in the night.

Where to stay at Nungwi Beach

There are many options for where to stay around Nungwi. Where you should stay mainly depends on your budget.

Cheap places include Makofi Guest House, Greens Nungwi, Malaika House, and Cocoa Guest House.

Luxury hotels include Hotel RIU Palace Zanzibar, Roya Zanzibar Beach Resort, and Essque Zalu Zanzibar.

#2. Kendwa Beach

Kendwa lies in the north of Zanzibar. Like Nungwi, Kendwa’s tide doesn’t vary significantly. Swimmers can enjoy clear waters on the shallow shore without worrying about high tides. Kendwa is home to colorful starfish.

Kendwa is not only for swimmers but also divers, snorkelers, etc. Other things to do at Kendwa are sunbathing, dhow cruises, kayaking, skydiving, and jet skiing. Witnessing the sunset is another glamorous experience.

At night, Kendwa is busy with parties thrown in hotels and resorts. The Full Moon Party is one of the famous parties held at Kendwa Rocks Hotel.

Where to stay at Kendwa

Budget-friendly places include Natural Kendwa Villa, Tropicana Kendwa Beach Hotel, and Dream of Kendwa Beach Villa.

Luxury hotels include Zuri Zanzibar, Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar, and Kendwa Rocks Zanzibar.

#3. Bwejuu Beach

Bwejuu lies in the west of Zanzibar. It borders Michamvi Beach on the north and Paje Beach on the south. Bwejuu is not busy as Nungwi or Kendwa. Bwejuu is perfect for those seeking privacy. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing destination, you should visit this beach.

It is a relaxation gateway after rewarding wildlife safaris on the mainland. Only a few people visit it, making it the best spot for relaxation for couples, families, etc. A few activities are available in Bwejuu, including swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, etc.

Where to stay at Bwejuu Beach

Cheap places include Tsunami Village and Mellow Moods Guest House

Luxurious hotels include the Palms Zanzibar, Sahari Zanzibar, Indigo Beach Zanzibar, and Baraza Resort and Spa.

#4. Jambiani Beach

Jambiani Beach is on the southeast coast. It is well known for its cultural immersion and rich marine life. Visitors can rest on Jambiani’s extensive shores filled with white sand.

Jambiani is cheaper than northern beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa. However, it is home to various wonders worth seeing.

Its turquoise waters, white powdery sands, and beautiful palm trees are a backdrop for your photos. Jambiani Beach is tidal, making it an ever-changing landscape.

Several water sports are available on this beach, including swimming, diving, snorkeling, and dhow cruises. Swimming is ideal during high tides but difficult on low tides. Jambiani is home to various tropical fish, such as seahorses, coral trout, jobfish, and trevallies.

A biking tour is also the best way to explore the local culture. Local women grow seaweed on the shallow shore, usually visible at low tides.

Where to stay at Jambiani Beach

Cheap places to stay include Mbuyuni Beach Village, Kimte Beach Lodge, Vanilla House, and Blue Earth Bungalows.

Luxury places include Reef and Beach Resort Zanzibar, Jambiani Villas, Fun Beach Hotel, and Blue Moon Resort.

Top 5 Beaches In Zanzibar For Swimming
Jambiani Beach

#5. Matemwe Beach

Matemwe lies on the northern coastline of Zanzibar. If you’re looking for a serene, tranquil, and quiet beach, Matemwe has it. You will meet powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life there. In addition to that, you can absorb the local culture. Coconut palms are lined along the coastline. Swimming is amazing. Swimmers can sunbathe on the white powdered sand.

Matemwe is close to Mnemba Atoll, a fascinating scuba diving and snorkeling site. Fishing is not permitted near the island, so marine life is abundant. Dolphins, humpbacks, turtles, and hundreds of fish species are visible here. Other watersports include kayaking, dhow cruises, etc.

Cheap places to stay

  • Miramont Retreat Zanzibar
  • Mohammed Bungalows and Restaurant
  • Zanzibar House
  • Sele’s Bungalows

Luxurious places to stay

  • Matemwe Lodge
  • Matemwe Retreat
  • Tamani Villas

Zanzibar is a top-notch destination for beach holidays. There are many options for where to spend your holiday. If you’re motivated to book a Zanzibar beach holiday, contact our Focus East Africa Safaris experts.

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