Nungwi Beach
Nungwi
A white-sand beach at the northern tip of Zanzibar, with small tides, swimming all day, clear blue water and the island's best sunsets.
Nungwi lies at the northern tip of Unguja Island, about 60 km from Stone Town, a 1 to 1.5 hour drive. Unlike the east coast, the sea here does not recede far at low tide, so swimming is possible all day, which makes it the most popular resort area. Hotels, restaurants and bars line the coast. The adjoining Kendwa Beach to the east is quieter and wider, and hosts beach parties around each full moon. Things to do: take a boat to Mnemba Atoll for snorkelling to see turtles and tropical fish, with wild dolphins often sighted (about USD 40 to 80); dive centres offer PADI courses; visit the village's traditional dhow boatyard; the Mnarani Aquarium turtle conservation pools let you see rescued turtles up close (about USD 10); and at sunset take a dhow cruise, then eat grilled seafood by the beach. Note: the village area is traditional, so cover up when you leave the beach; the beach is poorly lit at night, so do not bring valuables to parties.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Nungwi Dhow Yard
- Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond
- Ras Nungwi Lighthouse
- Kendwa Rocks Full Moon Party
- Kendwa Beach
- Tumbatu Island
- Mnemba Atoll
- Matemwe Beach