Exploring Kendwa and Jambiani Beach! Paradise Beaches 🌴

Kendwa and Jambiani are both beautiful beaches located in Zanzibar, a tropical island off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa.

Kendwa Beach:

Location: Kendwa is situated on the northern tip of Zanzibar. It's known for its pristine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets.
Characteristics: Kendwa is less crowded compared to some other beaches in Zanzibar, offering a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. The beach is known for its long stretches of powdery sand and is a great place for swimming and water activities.
Nightlife: Kendwa is also famous for its lively nightlife. There are beach parties, bars, and entertainment options that make it a popular destination for those looking for a mix of relaxation and fun.
Jambiani Beach:

Location: Jambiani is situated on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar.
Characteristics: Jambiani offers a more laid-back and local experience compared to some of the busier tourist areas. The beach is known for its long tidal flats, allowing for long walks during low tide. It's a great place to experience local Zanzibari culture and interact with the friendly villagers.
Activities: Jambiani is an excellent spot for water sports like kiteboarding and snorkeling. The local fishing village provides an authentic experience, and visitors can explore the area's coral reefs and marine life.
Both Kendwa and Jambiani offer unique experiences, catering to different preferences. Kendwa is popular for its lively atmosphere, stunning beach, and vibrant nightlife, while Jambiani provides a more serene and culturally immersive experience. The choice between the two depends on the type of beach experience and activities you're seeking during your visit to Zanzibar.


Location: Northwest coast – 56 km from Stone Town
Access: Approximately 80 minutes by taxi or bus
Great for: All-day swimming & amazing sunsets
Popular budget hotels: Sunseabar Beach Hotel, Sunset Kendwa, Kendwa Beach Resort
Best luxury hotels: Zuri Zanzibar, Kendwa Rocks, Riu Palace, Kilindi Zanzibar

Kendwa Beach, a once little known hippie hideout on the northwest coast, is renowned for its pristine, white sands and clear waters, offering a tranquil retreat with a wide choice of luxurious accommodations. Unlike many other beaches on Zanzibar, Kendwa allows for uninterrupted swimming, thanks to its tide-free nature, although this calmness means it’s not really suitable for more adventurous water sports.

Visitors can enjoy a range of other activities however including snorkeling, scuba diving and unique to Kendwa, skydiving. The atmosphere in Kendwa strikes a harmonious balance, being more laid-back than Nungwi, yet gently bubbling with life, especially during the weekend and at full-moon parties.

Recently ranked as one of the best beaches globally, and the top in Africa, Kendwa Beach beckons travelers seeking an unparalleled beach experience coupled with indulgent relaxation.


Location: Southeast coast – 56 km from Stone Town
Access: Approximately 80 minutes by taxi or bus
Great for: Cultural immersion and budget travellers
Popular budget hotels: New Teddy’s on the Beach, Seconda Stella, PiliPili Swahili Lodge
Best luxury hotels: Belvedere Resort, Blue Oyster Hotel, Uzuri Villa – Boutique Hotel

Jambiani Beach, located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, is a picturesque and culturally rich holiday destination. It is known for its soft white sand beaches and unique dramatic coral rock formations, offering a serene and idyllic backdrop for a low-key beach getaway.

The beach is less touristic compared to its neighbor, Paje, providing a more relaxed and authentic experience. Visitors can enjoy the local Zanzibari coastal cuisine and explore the village center of Jambiani, where the local life is vibrant, and the community is welcoming. Jambiani is a place where one can experience pole pole (slowly, slowly) life, soak up the surroundings, and immerse in the friendly and amazing local culture.

The beachfront is lined with wonderful hotels and lodges offering comfortable stays with breathtaking sea views. The Jetty Platform Bar at Spice Island Hotel & Resort is a highlight for drinks owing to its iconic overwater location, providing a different perspective and the best view in town. Additionally, Jambiani Beach is in close proximity to Kuza Cave, one of the most stunning crystal clear swimming caves in East Africa, offering yet another layer to your adventure.