Every Zanzibar beach photograph looks the same. The beaches do not behave the same, and the difference decides whether your holiday works.
If you want to swim at any hour
Kendwa and Nungwi, on the north coast. The tide does not retreat far, so the sea is available all day. Kendwa is wider and quieter, Nungwi is busier with more restaurants and dive centres.
If you want quiet
Matemwe, Michamvi or Mtende. Very little on the sand, few people, and the reef or the cliffs to look at. Michamvi is the only east coast area where the sun sets over water.
If you want wind and a scene
Paje. The kitesurfing capital of East Africa, with a shallow reef lagoon, steady wind in the two kite seasons and a young, informal crowd.
If you want the best snorkelling
Matemwe or Pwani Mchangani, for the short boat ride out to Mnemba atoll.
If you want value
Pwani Mchangani and Jambiani, for a comparable beach at a lower nightly rate than the better-known neighbours.
What we do
We match the coast to what you actually want, book the hotel, arrange the transfers, and set up the excursions before you arrive so your days are not spent negotiating on the beach.