Tanzania is a paradise for beach lovers, with its extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean offering some of the most idyllic shores in Africa.
Whether you are drawn to the lively atmosphere of resort beaches or the solitude of remote coastal retreats, Tanzania has something to suit every traveler. This guide explores the 12 best beaches in Tanzania that will leave you in awe.
- 1. Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar
- 2. Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar
- 3. Paje Beach, Zanzibar
- 4. Jambiani Beach, Zanzibar
- 5. Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar
- 6. Nakupenda Beach, Zanzibar
- 7. Mnemba Island
- 8. Pemba Island Beaches
- 9. Mafia Island Beaches
- 10. Kizimkazi Beach, Zanzibar
- 11. Chwaka Bay Beach, Zanzibar
- 12. Bwejuu Beach, Zanzibar
- FAQs
1. Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar
Nungwi Beach, located at the northern tip of Zanzibar Island, is renowned for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Once a traditional fishing village, Nungwi has transformed into a bustling tourist hub without losing its authentic charm.
- Google Rating: 4.6 stars
- Highlights: Stunning sunsets, vibrant nightlife, and dhow-building heritage
- Location:Nungwi, Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Families, couples, solo travelers
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises
- Nearby Attractions: Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, Baraka Natural Aquarium
- Nearby Places to Eat:The Rock Restaurant, Langi Langi Beach Bungalows Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Essque Zalu Zanzibar, The Z Hotel
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2. Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar
Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa Beach is famous for its wide, palm-fringed shoreline and calm, swimmable waters regardless of the tide. It’s also known for its monthly Full Moon Parties, attracting both locals and tourists.
- Google Rating: 4.5 stars
- Highlights: Tide-independent swimming, lively beach parties
- Location:Kendwa, Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Party-goers, beach lovers, couples
- Activities: Swimming, beach volleyball, snorkeling, partying
- Nearby Places to Eat:Kendwa Rocks Restaurant, Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
- Nearby Hotels:Kendwa Rocks Hotel, Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
3. Paje Beach, Zanzibar
Paje Beach, on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, is a haven for kite surfers due to its consistent winds and shallow waters. The beach has seen a surge in tourism, offering a mix of local culture and modern amenities.
- Google Rating: 4.4 stars
- Highlights: Kite surfing hotspot, vibrant local culture
- Location:Paje, Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Adventure seekers, solo travelers, digital nomads
- Activities: Kite surfing, snorkeling, beach walks
- Nearby Attractions: Seaweed Center, Jozani Forest
- Nearby Places to Eat:Mr. Kahawa, Ocean Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Dhow Inn, Kisiwa on the Beach
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4. Jambiani Beach, Zanzibar
South of Paje, Jambiani Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere with its long stretches of white sand and traditional fishing villages. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquility and cultural immersion.
- Google Rating: 4.5 stars
- Highlights: Authentic village experience, serene environment
- Location:Jambiani, Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Couples, cultural enthusiasts, solo travelers
- Activities: Swimming, village tours, dhow sailing
- Nearby Attractions:Kuza Cave, Local seaweed farms
- Nearby Places to Eat:The Stone Culture Restaurant, Bahari Pizza Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Blue Oyster Hotel, Coral Rock Hotel
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5. Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar
Matemwe Beach is known for its long, unspoiled stretches of sand and proximity to Mnemba Atoll, making it a favorite for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The area remains relatively untouched, offering a peaceful retreat.
- Google Rating: 4.3 stars
- Highlights: Secluded beaches, access to Mnemba Atoll
- Location:Matemwe, Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Divers, honeymooners, solitude seekers
- Activities: Snorkeling, diving, beach relaxation
- Nearby Attractions: Mnemba Atoll, Local fishing villages
- Nearby Places to Eat: Seles Beach Bar and Restaurant, Villa Kiva Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels: Matemwe Lodge, Villa Kiva Boutique Hotel
6. Nakupenda Beach, Zanzibar
Nakupenda, meaning “I love you” in Swahili, is a sandbank near Stone Town that appears and disappears with the tides. It’s perfect for day trips, offering pristine sands and clear waters.
- Google Rating: 4.7 stars
- Highlights: Temporary sandbank, snorkeling spot
- Location:Off the coast of Stone Town, Zanzibar
- Timings: Accessible during low tide
- Entry Fee: Free (boat rental required)
- Ideal for: Day-trippers, photographers, couples
- Activities: Snorkeling, sunbathing, picnicking
- Nearby Attractions: Prison Island, Stone Town
- Nearby Places to Eat:Forodhani Gardens (Stone Town)
- Nearby Hotels:Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Tembo House Hotel
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7. Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island is a private island off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, surrounded by a marine conservation area. It’s renowned for its rich marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and over 600 species of coral reef fish.
- Google Rating: 4.8 stars
- Highlights: Exclusive resort, exceptional diving and snorkeling
- Location: Off the northeast coast of Zanzibar
- Timings: Accessible to resort guests
- Entry Fee: Exclusive resort rates apply
- Ideal for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, divers
- Activities: Diving, snorkeling, marine life observation
- Nearby Attractions: Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve
- Nearby Places to Eat: Resort dining only
- Nearby Hotels:&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge
8. Pemba Island Beaches
Pemba Island, part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, is less developed than Unguja (Zanzibar Island), offering untouched beaches and lush greenery. It’s a paradise for divers and those seeking solitude.
- Google Rating: 4.5 stars
- Highlights: Pristine beaches, rich marine biodiversity
- Location:Pemba Island, Zanzibar Archipelago
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Divers, nature lovers, off-the-beaten-path travelers
- Activities: Diving, snorkeling, cultural tours
- Nearby Attractions:Misali Island, Ngezi Forest Reserve
- Nearby Places to Eat: Local eateries in Chake Chake
- Nearby Hotels:The Manta Resort, Pemba Lodge
9. Mafia Island Beaches
Mafia Island is a tranquil destination known for its marine park, which protects a rich array of marine life, including whale sharks and coral reefs. The island offers a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for eco-tourism and diving enthusiasts. The beaches here are less crowded, offering a true escape from the typical tourist trail.
- Google Rating: 4.6 stars
- Highlights: Marine park, whale sharks, untouched coastline
- Location:Mafia Island, southern Tanzania
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free (Marine Park entry: approx. $20/day)
- Ideal for: Divers, wildlife lovers, solo travelers
- Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, whale shark spotting
- Nearby Attractions:Mafia Island Marine Park, Chole Island
- Nearby Places to Eat: Butiama Beach Restaurant, Kinasi Lodge Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Kinasi Lodge, Butiama Beach Lodge
10. Kizimkazi Beach, Zanzibar
Located in the south of Zanzibar, Kizimkazi is known for dolphin-watching tours and a quieter beach experience. It’s also home to one of the oldest mosques in East Africa.
- Google Rating: 4.3 stars
- Highlights: Dolphin tours, historical sites
- Location: Kizimkazi, South Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Families, history buffs, nature lovers
- Activities: Dolphin watching, snorkeling, village tours
- Nearby Attractions:Kizimkazi Mosque, Menai Bay Conservation Area
- Nearby Places to Eat: Aya Beach Restaurant, Karamba Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Karamba Eco Resort, Aya Beach Resort
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11. Chwaka Bay Beach, Zanzibar
Chwaka Bay is ideal for travelers seeking peace and a strong connection to local life. It’s not great for swimming due to seaweed and tidal flats, but perfect for nature watching.
- Google Rating: 4.2 stars
- Highlights: Quiet environment, mangroves, bird watching
- Location: East-central Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Bird watchers, explorers, and peaceful getaways
- Activities: Bird watching, boat tours, photography
- Nearby Attractions:Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park
- Nearby Places to Eat: Local seafood joints in Chwaka village
- Nearby Hotels: Chwaka Bay Resort, Filao Beach Zanzibar
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12. Bwejuu Beach, Zanzibar
A peaceful beach often overlooked by mainstream tourists, Bwejuu offers relaxation and is perfect for romantic retreats. It’s also a great base for visiting nearby attractions.
- Google Rating: 4.4 stars
- Highlights: Quiet retreat, romantic ambience
- Location: Southeast coast of Zanzibar
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal for: Couples, honeymooners, wellness travelers
- Activities: Sunbathing, relaxing walks, spa treatments
- Nearby Attractions:Paje Beach, Jozani Forest
- Nearby Places to Eat:The Palms Zanzibar Restaurant, Breezes Beach Club
- Nearby Hotels:Baraza Resort & Spa, Breezes Beach Club
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FAQs
What is the best time to visit Tanzania’s beaches?
The best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season. The weather is sunny and pleasant, with calm seas—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. December to February is also a good period, especially for marine life sightings like whale sharks.
Which beach in Tanzania has the clearest water?
Nakupenda Beach and Mnemba Island are known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters. These spots are perfect for snorkeling and diving due to high visibility and vibrant coral reefs. The white sands and transparent seas offer postcard-like beach experiences.
Are Tanzania’s beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, most beaches in Tanzania are safe for swimming, especially during low tide and in designated zones. Always follow local guidance, as some areas may have strong currents or sea urchins. Popular beaches often have guides or lifeguards for added safety.
What are the best beaches in Tanzania for a quiet retreat?
Matemwe Beach, Fanjove Island, and Pemba Island Beaches offer peaceful, uncrowded surroundings. These beaches are ideal for solitude seekers, romantic getaways, or those wanting a break from tourist crowds. The tranquil settings allow deep relaxation amid nature.
Are there water sports available on Tanzanian beaches?
Yes, water sports are widely available, especially in Zanzibar. Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, kayaking, and dhow cruises. Paje and Kendwa are hotspots for adrenaline lovers, with equipment rentals and guided experiences for all skill levels.
Which beach is best for families with kids?
Kendwa Beach and Kipepeo Beach are excellent for families due to their calm waters and soft sands. These beaches offer safe swimming areas and easy access to restaurants and accommodations. Family-friendly activities and a relaxed vibe make them ideal for kids.
Can I find luxury resorts on Tanzania’s beaches?
Yes, Beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Mnemba Island feature world-class resorts with spas, infinity pools, and fine dining. Private beaches, sunset cruises, and five-star services make them perfect for honeymooners or luxury travelers seeking comfort.
Do beaches in Tanzania have bioluminescent waters?
Yes, some parts of Zanzibar and the surrounding islands occasionally exhibit bioluminescence. Although rare and seasonal, you might catch this glowing effect during nighttime boat trips, especially in less populated, darker beach areas.
