Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches

Nungwi sits on the northernmost tip of Zanzibar, where the reef sits far enough offshore and the coastline faces the right way that the sea stays deep and swimmable even at low tide — unlike much of the east coast, where the tide retreats hundreds of metres. That makes it the most popular beach on the island for a straightforward sun-and-swim stay.

The village itself still builds wooden dhows by hand on the beach, and the strip of hotels, beach bars and seafood restaurants gets busy at sunset. Neighbouring Kendwa, a short walk south, is a little quieter and known for its full-moon parties. Both are about an hour by road from Stone Town and the airport.