Top 5 Beach Destinations
From the lively shores of Nungwi to the serene coves of Matemwe where to go, how to park, and what to expect.
Kendwa
Soft sand, calm tides, family‑friendly
Nungwi
Lively, snorkelling, dhow building
Paje
Kite‑surfing, white sand, beach bars
Jambiani
Quiet, traditional villages, reef walks
Matemwe
Secluded, Mnemba views, honeymoon vibe
Zanzibar's coastline is a ribbon of paradise, with beaches that cater to every kind of traveller. Our dedicated team at Spice Wheels has spent years exploring every stretch of sand, carefully selecting the very best spots to share with you. Here are her top five beach destinations, all easily accessible by car and we've included parking tips and insider recommendations for each.
1. Kendwa The AllTide Favourite
Located just 15 minutes north of Nungwi, Kendwa is famous for its wide, soft sand and water that remains swimmable at all tides a rarity in Zanzibar. It's the perfect spot for families and couples who want a relaxed day by the ocean. There are several beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and cold drinks. Parking is available at the Kendwa Rocks resort lot (small fee) or along the road.
Insider tip: Visit on a full moon for the legendary Kendwa Rocks party but book accommodation well in advance.
2. Nungwi Vibrant and Historic
At the northern tip of the island, Nungwi is Zanzibar's most developed beach destination. It's lively, with a mix of luxury resorts, backpacker hostels, and a bustling nightlife scene. During the day, you can watch traditional dhow builders at work, snorkel off the beach, or visit the Mnarani turtle conservation pond. Parking can be tight; use the public lot near the dhow shipyard or park at your hotel.
Ready to chase the sun? Book your SpiceWheels car and explore all five beaches at your own rhythm.
Start Your Ride3. Paje The Kite Surfing Mecca
On the east coast, Paje offers endless white sand and shallow turquoise water, making it one of the best kite surfing spots in the world. Even if you don't kite, the beach is stunning, lined with casual cafes and boutique hotels. The main road is paved right to the village, and you can park on the sand or in designated lots. Explore the reef at low tide or take a dhow trip to the sandbank.
4. Jambiani Authentic Village Life
Just south of Paje, Jambiani is quieter and more traditional. Here you'll see women harvesting seaweed, children playing football, and fishermen mending their nets. The beach is beautiful and less crowded. Several community run restaurants serve excellent Swahili food. Parking is easy along the main road. It's the perfect place to experience local life.
5. Matemwe Romantic Escape
On the north east coast, Matemwe faces Mnemba Island, a private atoll with some of the best snorkelling in Zanzibar. The beach here is wide and often empty, lined with high end resorts and a few local guesthouses. The last few kilometres of road can be bumpy a 4x4 is recommended. Once you arrive, you'll be rewarded with serenity and stunning views.
How to Combine Multiple Beaches in One Trip
With a SpiceWheels car's, you can easily visit two or even three beaches in a day. For example, start with a sunrise walk in Paje, drive to Jambiani for lunch, then head north to Matemwe for sunset. The coastal road is good, and distances are short. For a longer itinerary, consider staying overnight in Nungwi and exploring the north. Read our seasonal guide to pick the best months for beach weather.
No matter which beach you choose, having your own wheels gives you the freedom to arrive early, leave late, and discover hidden coves along the way. And if you prefer a driver, we can arrange a chauffeur to take you beach hopping in comfort.
Ready to Explore Zanzibar?
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