Kiwengwa runs along the east coast of Unguja and has the broadest sweep of sand on that side of the island. It is where most of Zanzibar’s larger all-inclusive resorts are, particularly at the northern end, and it has been popular with European package travellers for years.
The beach is wide, white and backed by palms and casuarina. Like the rest of the east coast the tide is significant, and at low water the sea retreats to expose a wide sandy flat before returning in the afternoon.
What Kiwengwa offers is space and facilities. Water sports run from the beach, the resorts have pools for the low-tide hours, and the boats to Mnemba atoll leave from this stretch of coast. Behind the hotels the village carries on quietly, and the cave systems inland are worth a morning.
Kiwengwa suits families, groups and anyone who wants a full-service resort with a wide beach and easy access to the best snorkelling on the island.