Why are Nungwi and Kendwa better for swimming?

The north coast has a much smaller tidal range than the east, so the sea stays deep enough to swim throughout the day rather than retreating far out at low tide.

How far is Nungwi from the airport?

Nungwi is about 55 km and roughly 1.5 hours by road from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport near Stone Town.

Can I dive Mnemba from the north coast?

Yes, dive centres in Nungwi, Kendwa and Matemwe run daily boat trips to the Mnemba Atoll marine reserve, the archipelago's top site for reefs and turtles.

Is the north coast good for families or parties?

It suits both: Nungwi and Kendwa have family-friendly resorts and calm swimming, while Kendwa is also known for its lively full-moon beach parties.

North Zanzibar — Places to stay — verified guides & travel directory for Tanzania

Budget

North Zanzibar

Kendwa Rocks

A long-running Kendwa beach hotel of bungalows and beach rooms, famous for its full-moon parties.

Google Maps Area guide

Mid-range

North Zanzibar

Amaan Bungalows

A large, well-established Nungwi beachfront property with a range of rooms and easy access to dive centres.

Google Maps Area guide

Luxury

North Zanzibar

Zuri Zanzibar

A design-led beach resort on the quieter Kendwa coast, set in tropical gardens above the sea.

Google Maps Area guide

Luxury

North Zanzibar

Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel

An intimate, established retreat on a private stretch at the island's northeast tip with its own house reef.

Google Maps Area guide

Luxury

North Zanzibar

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas

Private pool villas and a spa on the northeast coast, a Relais and Chateaux property near Mnemba.

Google Maps Area guide