Which Beach to Choose in Zanzibar? Complete Guide: North, East, South Coasts
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
Choosing the best beach in Zanzibar isn't just about white sand and turquoise water. Between the lively north coast, the wild east for kitesurfing, and the ultra-calm south, it all depends on your trip: family vacation, honeymoon, surfing, or small budget. With a French-speaking Zanzibar guide like those from guidezanzibar.com, you avoid tourist traps and enjoy tailor-made Zanzibar excursions. Here's my personal comparison, based on 10 years enjoying these beaches.
Beach Comparison: North vs East vs South
Criteria | North Coast (Nungwi, Kendwa) | East Coast (Paje, Bwejuu) | South Coast (Jambiani, Kizimkazi) |
Atmosphere | Party, entertainment, hotels | Kitesurf, waves, local life | Absolute calm, fishermen, nature |
Water | Calm, perfect for swimming | Waves and tides | Snorkeling |
Family ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Yes (hotels with pools) | Medium (waves) | Great ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Honeymoon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Top (Sunset with dhow views) | ⭐⭐⭐ (wild romantic) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (privacy) |
Kitesurf ⭐⭐ | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (world-class spot) | ⭐ (beginners) |
Access from Stone Town | 1h | 1h15 | 45min. |
North Coast: Nungwi and Kendwa for the festive vibe
Nungwi is THE "postcard" beach of Zanzibar. Calm water even at low tide, hotels with infinity pools, and sunset aperitifs on a Zanzibar dhow excursion. Perfect for a successful honeymoon (private beach table) or family trip (Kids' Club).
But beware: this beach gets crowded in high season (June-August, December). Opt instead for Kendwa Rocks right next door, chicer and less touristy. With a French-speaking Zanzibar guide like Issa from guidezanzibar.com, I'll arrange a private snorkeling outing without the crowds.
My tip: Book directly at Sandies Beach Resort or Essque Zalu to save 20% vs Booking.
East Coast: Paje and Bwejuu, paradise for surfers and kitesurfers
Here, you come for the waves and wind. Paje is the world-class kitesurf spot (Fanatic school). White sand as far as the eye can see, but at low tide, you'll need to walk a bit to reach the sea (grab a bodyboard).
Bwejuu is wilder and ideal for adventurous couples or solos. Fewer hotels. If you want insider tips, a French-speaking Zanzibar guide can share them and help negotiate local prices.
Budget alert: Kite rental 40€/day, but dolladolla from Stone Town = 3€.
South Coast: Jambiani and Kizimkazi for calm and family
Jambiani, my personal HQ. Fishing village, beach protected by coral reefs (snorkeling with mask and snorkel). Warm water, zero waves: top for family or retirees seeking peace. The town of Kizimkazi in the southwest offers an exceptional excursion to swim with dolphins after spotting them by boat (excursion available with a Zanzibar guide).
My honeymoon advice: Candlelit dinner with fishermen (15€/person, book via guide).
How to REALLY choose your beach?
Family: South (Jambiani) or North (Nungwi). Avoid the east due to low tides that might disappoint.
Honeymoon: North (magical sunsets) or South (intimacy).
Surf/kite: East hands down (Paje is a crowd favorite).
For a French-speaking Zanzibar guide who knows ALL the hidden spots, contact guidezanzibar.com – we optimize your Zanzibar excursions at no extra cost.
Ready to book? Tell me your travel style in the comments, I'll make you a personal itinerary! 😎
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