Zanzibar is located only 15 miles from the coast of Tanzania and it's one of the best beach destinations in the world with beautiful white sandy beaches, coral reefs, comfortable accommodations, and azure blue waters. This bounty island has miles and miles of white sandy beaches sprinkled with palm trees and is surrounded by the transparent waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar also has a colorful culture and history with Stone Town being a fascinating old city with many nice markets, restaurants and historical sightseeings. Zanzibar Island together with Pemba and Mafia Island are part of the Zanzibar archipelago. These islands are also called the Spice Islands because of their rich history in the spice trade and many spice plantations. Zanzibar it indeed a great beach destinations to wash off the dust after your safari adventure.
Zanzibar Hotels & Best beaches:
We offer accommodations in some of the best hotels on the island and can accomodate different various budgets. From entry level comfort, to affordable luxury to 5star+ luxurious resorts we have options available for everyone. Press here to view our available accommodations and contact us to see how we can accommodate your needs and budget. ​
Zanzibar offers some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Soft white sandy beaches surrounded by colorful coral reefs and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar island has about 25 world class beaches. Should you stay north or rather choose the south or east coast of Zanzibar?
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Stone Town:
Stone Town, or Zanzibar City, is the capital of the island of Zanzibar. Any trip to Zanzibar will start in Stone Town which is full of rich history, architectural wonders, and culture. The Stone Town of Zanzibar is an outstanding example of a Swahili trading town. The Stone Town of Zanzibar retains its urban fabric and townscape virtually intact and contains many fine buildings that reflect its particular culture, which has brought together and homogenized disparate elements of the cultures of Africa, the Arab region, India, and Europe over more than a millennium. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants on the island, serving a variety of cuisines from local Zanzibari dishes to international cuisines.
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North:
Zanzibar’s best beaches are on the north and east coast of the island, all with crystal white sand and colorful coral reefs. Nungwi and Kendwa are one of the most popular beaches since they do not have to deal with high and low tides. The area has a chilled atmosphere with numbers of restaurants, bars and nightlife options. So if you seek real peace and privacy you should visit another part of the island (like the east or south). The north is home to villages like Uroa, Pongwe, Kiwengwa, Nungwi and Kendwa.
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East:
At the east coast of the island you will find the most idyllic beaches. Along the eastern coastline runs a beautiful coral reef, a top world spot for snorkelling and diving. You can immerse yourself in the abundance of marine life, such as sea horses, turtles and many tropical fish. The beaches at this east coast are very tidal. During low tide you can take a walk on the beach and enjoy the ocean views. If you love wind- or kite surfing this is the right place for you. Matemwe beach is the longest and one of the most beautiful ones at this side of the island. Like in the north, there is a wealth of restaurant and bar options.
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South-East:
This part of the island is known for its long stretch of soft sandy beaches. It is the best spot on the island for sailing or kite- and windsurfing, thanks to steady winds. Hop on a traditional wooden sailboat (dhow) and sail the ocean, or go swimming with dolphins at Kizimkazi (south). Here you will find little villages like Jambiani, Paje and Bwejuu. These small fishing village have a nice timeless atmosphere with friendly people. One of our favourite villages is Jambiani which offers some of the best local hospitality you can find.
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South-West:
The south west coast is a bit more remote with fewer lodges and deserted beaches. The beaches in west and south of Zanzibar are less popular, although there are some beautiful beaches with gentle tides. If you visit the south, do not forget to go to Menai Bay Conservation Area. This is a spectacular underwater world for divers. The western coast is home to the fascinating old Stone Town, the cultural and historical centre of Zanzibar.
Excursions during your Zanzibar holiday:
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The tropical island of Zanzibar offers many options for laid-back beach goers, watersport fans and cultural activity goers. The opportunities are endless, there is a lot to do for everyone on Zanzibar:
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Walking tour in Stonetown: The old Stone Town is the historical centre of Zanzibar and an amazing mix of Food lovers and culture enthusiasts can visit interesting cultural places like Sultan’s Palace, the House of Wonders, the Slave Market and Darajani or Forodhani food markets. You can even dinner at Freddie Mercury’s former house, who was born in Zanzibar.
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Spice tour: Visit a spice farm and learn how spices, herbs and fruits grow and used as medicine.
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Kite surfing: Thanks to its steady sideshore winds, Zanzibar is an ideal spot for wind- or kitesurfing, especially the beaches at Paje, Kiwengwa and Nungwi.
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Mountain-bike tour: If you like some exercise and adventure go on a biking tour to explore the island. It offers you a nice insight in the daily way of life and beautiful nature.
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Prison Island: Visit the deserted island that was once used as a place where slaves were detained. Nowadays Prison Island is a place to relax at the lovely white beach. It is ideal for snorkeling, swimming or sunbathing. You can also see the old prison ruins and about a hundred giant land tortoise.
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Safari Blue: Enjoy the natural beauty of Zanzibar on a traditional wooden sailboat (dhow). Visit 3 beautiful islands where you can swim, snorkel and enjoy an delicious barbecue. Another popular snorkeling trip is to Mnemba Atoll, one of the most beautiful snorkel spots in Zanzibar.
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Jozani Forest: Go on a walk through the last indigenous forest and mangroves on Zanzibar. The huge palms in this forest are impressive and you will see lots of monkeys like the rare Red Colobus Monkeys.
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Restaurant The Rock: This restaurant is built on a rock in the ocean. An awesome place to eat and enjoy the views.
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Chumbe Island: This uninhabited small coral island is a true snorkeling paradise. It is the first private marine park in the world and has only 7 beautiful eco-friendly bungalows, surrounded by pristine nature.
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