Zanzibar Beach Holidays

A Zanzibar beach holiday weaves together idyllic shores, rich culture, and vibrant marine life to create a truly exotic Indian Ocean escape. While the island’s powdery white sands and turquoise waters are its immediate allure, its identity is deeply rooted in history, from the spice-scented trade routes to the atmospheric alleyways of its Stone Town capital.

For pure relaxation, different coastal areas offer distinct experiences. The northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa are celebrated for their calm, swimmable waters and stunning sunsets. In contrast, the east coast, including areas like Paje and Jambiani, features breathtaking stretches of sand that are significantly affected by tides. Paje is also a world-renowned hub for kitesurfing, thanks to consistent winds and a large lagoon. For luxury and exclusivity, private islands such as Mnemba offer ultimate seclusion.

Beyond the beach, Zanzibar’s cultural heart is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can wander through a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with carved doors, visit the historic Darajani Market, and learn about the island’s complex history at sites like the Old Slave Market. Other popular excursions include touring aromatic spice plantations—where cinnamon, clove, and vanilla grow—and visiting Jozani Forest to see the endemic red colobus monkeys.

A typical holiday balances beach time with these cultural discoveries. Many visitors split their stay between a few nights in Stone Town and several days at a coastal resort. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October, when skies are clear and rainfall is minimal. For a classic East African adventure, a popular combination pairs a wildlife safari on the Tanzanian mainland with a relaxing beach finale in Zanzibar.