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The most beautiful beaches on Zanzibar? These consist, of course, of crystal clear sea water, vast white sandy beaches, tropical palm trees and a breathtaking underwater world. It is the perfect description of what you will encounter on this island paradise. A place where you won't get enough of the relaxed and romantic atmospheres. The island of Zanzibar is a popular destination for honeymoon or beach vacations for good reason. But if you do go here, why not combine it directly with a tour of Tanzania? Just as adventurous!
1. Nungwi Beach
The most popular beach destination on Zanzibar is Nungwi Beach, a fishing village that has retained its authentic atmosphere. Located in the north of Zanzibar, Nungwi is also a beautiful place to stay. Take the local Dala-Dala bus or rent your own car to drive from Stone Town to the north of the island. Enjoy one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on Zanzibar here.
Tip: A fun excursion that you can often book through your accommodation or through a local tour operator is the boat trip to the Mnemba Reef. Here you can snorkel beautifully among the zebra fish.
2. Kendwa Beach
Close to Nungwi Beach you will find Kendwa Beach, the place for a fun beach party on Zanzibar. When the water is low, you can walk to Kendwa Beach from Nungwi Beach, and vice versa. Especially in the months of June and July, and December and January, Kwenda Beach is a popular destination for beach parties. It also attracts that many international travelers. Keep in mind that prices are a bit higher here then as well.
At Kwenda Beach you can do several water sports. Think kitesurfing, diving and snorkeling, as well as tearing across the water on a jet ski. Towards the end of the afternoon, when the temperature becomes more pleasant, you will also see many people flocking to the beach volleyball courts. The atmosphere at Kwenda Beach is always very pleasant!
A well-known hotel for a fun full moon party is Kendwa Rocks Hotel. The hotel has a beautiful location on the coast with beautiful bungalows to stay in. We stayed in the Sunset Beach Hotel with a beautiful, wide white beach full of palm trees.
3. Jambiani Beach
If your preference is beaches where the crowds don't come, Jambiani beach is a gem to visit. Truly one of the most beautiful beaches on Zanzibar. You will find Jambiani in the southeast of the island and you can relax on a beach that is a whopping 7 kilometers long. It fulfills the paradise picture of a white, wide sandy beach with palm trees and an azure sea. Have a chat with the locals, admire the traditional dhow boats and enjoy the most beautiful sunsets. Would you like to spend the night here during your stay on Zanzibar? Then New Teddy's on the Beach highly recommended!
4. Michamvi
In the very south of Zanzibar you will find a hidden gem: the Michamvi Peninsula. You will find several vast white beaches where few tourists stay. There is a relaxed atmosphere at the cute beach bars along the coast and it is said to be one of the most beautiful places on the island to watch the sunset.
5. Mnemba Island
Northeast of Zanzibar you will find the tropical island of Mnemba. This small private island is definitely among the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar, but to stay here you will have to pay quite a bit. Mnemba Island is known for its beautiful white beaches where you will be one of the few. The coral is untouched which makes for fantastic snorkeling or diving. You will stay here in the small lodge andBeyond Mnemba Island. Staying here guarantees a very romantic stay!
6. Chumbe Island
About six kilometers west of Zanzibar you will find another special tropical island: Chumbe Island. The only opportunity to stay here is at Resort Chumbe Island Coral Park, a beautiful eco-lodge. The accommodation is highly sustainable. Resort Chumbe Island Coral Park uses solar panels, reuses rainwater and has a nature-friendly architecture. Discover the beautiful white beaches and healthy, untouched coral in this small nature reserve. Not only will you find one of Zanzibar's most beautiful beaches here, but you'll also be staying in a unique place that contributes to nature conservation.
7. Pemba Island
The main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago is Unguja, with the well-known beach destination of Nungwi and the interesting old town of Stone Town. But under the Zanzibar Archipelago falls another beautiful, tropical island, namely Pemba. Do you ever want a white bounty beach all to yourself? Then you must go to Pemba Island!
Because few tourists travel to Pemba Island, there are also not many accommodations. You then soon have this green, hilly island all to yourself. Another big advantage of this island is that you are part of traditional local life. By the end of the day, play soccer with the locals on the beach and then eat delicious local food on the beach. And also here you should definitely go on a snorkeling or diving adventure. The underwater world there is beautiful!
Lois Weeterings
A dreamer and adventure seeker, always on the lookout for new experiences. But also a hard worker with a thousand ideas racing through my mind. As a personal travel consultant and travel blogger, I share my passion for faraway destinations, thrilling adventures, and winter sports. With deep knowledge of places like Namibia, Colombia, the ABC Islands, and the Middle East, I’m here to help you craft a trip you’ll never forget. Through my personal stories and expert tips, I aim to inspire you to explore the world your way. Always with my camera in hand, I’m determined to capture every magical moment and share it with you.
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