Zanzibar • Planning • Accommodation
Where to Stay in Zanzibar: The Best Areas Compared
Wondering where to stay in Zanzibar? For most first-time visitors, the north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa is the easiest choice, with swimmable beaches at most tides and beautiful sunsets. The east coast is quieter and wilder but has big tides, and Stone Town is perfect for a night or two of history and culture. Here is how each area compares.
Quick answer
- Best for culture: Stone Town
- Best for sunsets and swimming: Nungwi and Kendwa
- Best for peace and privacy: Matemwe and the northeast
- Best for kitesurfing and a laid-back vibe: Paje and Jambiani
- Best for The Rock and quiet sunsets: Michamvi Peninsula
First, understand the Zanzibar tides
The single biggest factor in choosing where to stay is the tide. On the east coast, the sea can retreat hundreds of metres at low tide, revealing sand flats, rock pools and seaweed farms. It is beautiful in its own way, but you may not be able to swim at certain times of day.
The north coast is much less affected, so you can usually swim whenever you like. If an ocean dip at any hour matters to you, start your search in the north.
Stone Town: history, culture and food
Zanzibar's historic old town is a maze of winding alleys, carved wooden doors, bustling markets and rooftop restaurants. Stay here to explore on foot, enjoy the Forodhani night food market and feel the island's Swahili, Arab, Indian and European heritage up close.
Stone Town is not a beach destination, so most travellers spend one to two nights here before heading to the coast. Read our Stone Town guide for what to see.
Nungwi: lively beaches and big sunsets
At the island's northern tip, Nungwi has soft white sand, deep blue water and a lively choice of restaurants, bars and beach activities. It is one of the best places on the island for a sunset dhow cruise, and the beaches are swimmable most of the day.
Kendwa: Nungwi's calmer neighbour
Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa offers a wide, gently sloping beach that is famous for calm, swimmable water and spectacular sunsets. It feels more relaxed than Nungwi, making it a favourite for romantic stays.
Matemwe and the northeast: quiet and close to Mnemba
The northeast coast around Matemwe is peaceful and village-like, with a lovely lagoon and easy access to Mnemba Atoll, one of Zanzibar's best snorkelling and diving areas. The tides here are significant, so choose a resort with a pool.
Paje and Jambiani: kitesurfing and laid-back charm
The southeast coast has long, dazzling white beaches and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. Paje is one of Africa's best-known kitesurfing spots thanks to its shallow lagoon and steady winds. Expect big tides, and sunrise rather than sunset views.
Michamvi Peninsula: sunsets on the east coast
The Michamvi Peninsula is unusual. Because it curves into Chwaka Bay, its western side faces the sunset, so you get east coast tranquillity with evening views. It is also close to The Rock, the famous restaurant in the sea.
Zanzibar areas compared
| Area | Tides | Sunset or sunrise | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Town | Not a beach base | Sunset | Historic, cultural, busy |
| Nungwi | Low impact | Sunset | Lively, social |
| Kendwa | Low impact | Sunset | Relaxed, romantic |
| Matemwe | High impact | Sunrise | Quiet, village feel |
| Paje & Jambiani | High impact | Sunrise | Laid-back, sporty |
| Michamvi | Moderate | Sunset (west side) | Peaceful, romantic |
Our recommended combination
For a week in Zanzibar, many of our guests enjoy two nights in Stone Town followed by five nights on the north or east coast. This gives you culture, food and history first, then pure relaxation. Honeymooners might like our 7-day romantic Zanzibar itinerary, which follows this route.
Choose the beach that suits your rhythm: lively or still, sunrise or sunset. Zanzibar has a corner for every kind of love story.
Where to stay in Zanzibar: FAQs
What is the best area to stay in Zanzibar?
For most first-time visitors, the north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa is the best area, thanks to swimmable beaches and excellent sunsets. Adding a night or two in Stone Town gives you the island's culture too.
Which Zanzibar beaches are affected by tides?
East coast beaches such as Paje, Jambiani, Bwejuu and Matemwe have large tides. The north coast is much less affected.
Where should honeymooners stay in Zanzibar?
Kendwa and Nungwi are favourites for sunsets and swimming, while boutique resorts on the east coast and Michamvi offer privacy. Combining Stone Town with a beach stay is a popular romantic option.
Not sure which area is right for you?
Tell us your dates, budget and travel style, and we'll recommend the perfect Zanzibar stay.
Explore Zanzibar Holidays WhatsApp Us