Tanzania is known for its wildlife safaris and majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, but its stunning coastline and tropical islands are equally mesmerizing. From powdery white sands to turquoise waters and swaying palms, the best beaches in Tanzania offer an idyllic escape for sun-seekers, divers, honeymooners, and nature lovers alike.
Whether you’re looking to relax in a hammock, dive into coral reefs, or explore local fishing villages, here are the top beaches in Tanzania that promise an unforgettable coastal experience.
1. Nungwi Beach – Zanzibar’s Northern Gem
Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar Island, Nungwi Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in Tanzania. Its soft white sand, clear blue water, and vibrant marine life make it a favorite among tourists.
Unlike other parts of Zanzibar, Nungwi doesn’t experience extreme tides, which means you can swim all day. It’s also a great place for snorkeling, diving, and sunset dhow cruises. The beach is lined with resorts, beach bars, and restaurants, making it perfect for both relaxation and nightlife.
2. Kendwa Beach – Laid-back Luxury
Just a few kilometers from Nungwi, Kendwa Beach is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and upscale beach experience. Known for its calm waters, golden sunsets, and monthly full moon parties, it offers a great mix of serenity and celebration.
Kendwa is also great for swimming regardless of the tide, and several luxury resorts and boutique hotels make it a top choice for honeymooners and couples.
3. Paje Beach – A Kite Surfer’s Paradise
Located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, Paje Beach is famous for its strong winds and shallow waters, making it a hub for kite surfing enthusiasts from around the world. The long stretch of beach, palm trees, and laid-back atmosphere attract backpackers, digital nomads, and budget travelers.
Beyond kiting, you can take seaweed farm tours, go snorkeling, or enjoy the relaxed beach cafés and reggae bars that dot the shore.
4. Jambiani Beach – Tranquil and Authentic
Adjacent to Paje, Jambiani Beach is a quieter and more authentic Tanzanian coastal village. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape tourist crowds and experience local Swahili culture.
You’ll see fishermen heading out to sea in traditional dhows and women harvesting seaweed at low tide. The turquoise waters and coral reefs provide opportunities for snorkeling, and the small guesthouses along the beach offer cozy and affordable stays.
5. Matemwe Beach – Luxury Meets Local Life
Located on Zanzibar’s northeast coast, Matemwe Beach is known for its peaceful vibes, seaweed farms, and access to one of Africa’s best diving sites — Mnemba Atoll. It’s a favorite for those looking for a secluded, luxury beach holiday.
Many lodges and resorts in Matemwe offer guided snorkeling and diving trips to the atoll, where you can see dolphins, sea turtles, and a colorful array of coral reef fish.
6. Bwejuu Beach – Hidden and Romantic
Often overshadowed by its neighboring beaches, Bwejuu Beach on the southeast coast is one of Zanzibar’s best-kept secrets. With its soft sand, scattered palm trees, and fewer tourists, it’s an ideal location for couples seeking solitude.
Bwejuu is home to some of the island’s top boutique resorts and offers spa treatments, oceanfront dining, and day trips to nearby mangroves and fishing villages.
7. Michamvi Peninsula – Untouched Coastal Beauty
For those looking to truly disconnect, the Michamvi Peninsula is the place to be. Located on the eastern tip of Zanzibar, this area offers unspoiled beaches, serene lagoons, and one of the most picturesque sunset spots on the island — Kae Funk Beach Bar.
Michamvi is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing with a drink as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean. The area remains less developed, providing a more untouched, eco-friendly experience.
8. Bagamoyo Beach – History and Coastal Charm
Back on mainland Tanzania, Bagamoyo Beach offers a different kind of experience. Located just an hour north of Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo combines beautiful beach views with a rich colonial and Swahili history.
While the beach itself is calm and perfect for picnics, the nearby Old Town, slave market ruins, and missionary museums offer cultural and historical depth. It’s an excellent day trip for history buffs and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination.
9. Mafia Island – Dive into Marine Paradise
For serious divers and marine enthusiasts, Mafia Island is a must-visit. Part of the Mafia Archipelago, this remote island is home to the Mafia Island Marine Park, a protected underwater ecosystem with vibrant coral reefs, whale sharks, turtles, and hundreds of fish species.
The beaches here are serene and rarely crowded. It’s ideal for eco-tourism, and most lodges focus on sustainability and personalized experiences.
10. Sange Beach – Mainland Seclusion
Located between Pangani and Saadani National Park, Sange Beach is a lesser-known mainland gem. With hardly any development, it’s ideal for adventurous travelers looking for quiet shores, pristine nature, and zero crowds.
Nearby wildlife sightings and birdwatching opportunities make it a good stop for combining beach relaxation with a taste of Tanzania’s wild side.
Final Thoughts
From Zanzibar’s popular northern beaches to the untouched shores of Mafia and Sange, the best beaches in Tanzania offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to dive with whale sharks, kite surf on turquoise waves, or simply relax under the African sun, Tanzania’s coast delivers a truly magical beach experience.
Don’t just think of Tanzania as a safari destination — let its coastline surprise you. A beach holiday here is not just about sun and sand, but about the soul of Swahili culture, marine biodiversity, and a touch of paradise that you’ll remember forever.
