Where you can swim at any hour
According to several guides, Nungwi and Kendwa are little affected by tides: deep water near the shore, especially at Kendwa, lets you swim at almost any hour. If swimming comes first, choose the north.
Where the tide decides
| Coast | Beach | Swimming at low tide | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| North | Nungwi, Kendwa | Yes, almost all day | Nothing special |
| East | Paje | No, the lagoon empties | Swim at high tide |
| East | Jambiani, Bwejuu | No, according to guides | Swim at high tide |
At Paje, the lagoon empties at low tide: that creates the ideal sea for kitesurfers and for walkers on the sandbanks. At low tide, explore the pools, kitesurf or take a walk; swimming and snorkelling are better around high tide.
How to plan
Ask your hotel whether the sea in front of the property is sandy or mostly covered with reef, which changes how you can use it at low tide. Many hotels in the east and north post a tide chart. For an excursion, check the tide too: The Rock is reached on foot at low tide and by boat at high tide, and boat departures often depend on the time.
FAQ
Can you swim anywhere in Zanzibar at any time?
No: in the north, almost; in the east, aim for high tide.
Where to find tide times?
Our sources give no 2026 table; use a tide forecast site or your hotel's chart.
Which coast to choose for swimming?
The north (Kendwa first); the east for kitesurfing and views.
Pour aller plus loin
To choose where to sleep, see where to stay in Zanzibar and the best beaches. For seasons, see when to go to Zanzibar.
