Zanzibar Travel Guide
Zanzibar Beaches: Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje & Jambiani Compared
By Haji, your local · updated on 12.07.2026 · 8 min read
Part of our complete Zanzibar travel guideZanzibar doesn't have just one beach, but many – and they're surprisingly different. Which one suits you depends mainly on a factor many underestimate: the tides. Here comes the honest comparison of Zanzibar's most popular beaches.
First Understand: The Tides
The most important difference between the beaches is the tidal range. On the east and southeast coast (Paje, Jambiani, Matemwe), the sea retreats far at low tide – leaving a shallow, turquoise lagoon, perfect for walking and kitesurfing, but not always for swimming. In the north (Nungwi, Kendwa), the tidal range is smaller: Here you can swim almost all day.
Nungwi (North): Lively & Always Swimmable
Nungwi is the all-rounder: swim at almost any time of day, lots of restaurants, boat tours, and some nightlife in the evening. Perfect if you want action and swimming without worrying about the tides – though it can be busier here.
Kendwa (North): Relaxed with Dreamy Sunsets
Right next to Nungwi, but quieter: Kendwa is also swimmable all day and famous for its sunsets. Here, you can end the day golden with the tour Turtles & Sunset in Kendwa.
Paje (Southeast): Kitesurf Paradise
Paje is young, relaxed, and the center for kitesurfers. The wide, shallow lagoon shimmers turquoise, with local seaweed farms in between. Swimming is best at high tide. Nearby awaits the Salaam Cave & Paje Beach.
Jambiani (Southeast): Quiet & Authentic
Jambiani is the quieter Paje: a long-stretched fishing and seaweed farming village, little hustle, lots of genuine island life. Ideal if you want to escape the hustle and experience Zanzibar from its original side.
And for Pure Peace: The East & Matemwe
Matemwe in the northeast is quiet and close to Mnemba Atoll – one of the best spots for snorkeling and diving. Further south, at Michamvi/Pingwe, stands the famous The-Rock-Restaurant in the sea.
Which Beach Suits You?
Swimming at any time and a bit of life: Nungwi or Kendwa. Kitesurfing and young, relaxed vibes: Paje. Peace and authenticity: Jambiani or Matemwe. Many combine two regions in one trip – how to do it cleverly is shown in the 7-Day Itinerary.
Tell me what's important to you – swimming, peace, or action – and I'll recommend the perfect beach and the best tours for you.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to swim in Zanzibar?+
In the north, in Nungwi and Kendwa, the tidal range is small – you can swim almost all day there. On the east coast (Paje, Jambiani), the water retreats far at low tide.
What's the deal with tides in Zanzibar?+
Especially on the east and southeast coast, the tidal range is large: At low tide, a wide shallow lagoon forms, and at high tide, the water returns. Plan swimming and boat tours according to the tides – your guide knows them well.
Which beach is best for families?+
Nungwi and Kendwa, because you can swim there regardless of the tides and there's infrastructure. More on this in the Family Guide.
Where can you kitesurf in Zanzibar?+
Paje on the southeast coast is the kitesurfing center – shallow lagoon and reliable wind.