Kendwa, a few kilometres south of Nungwi on the north-west coast, is known for a sea that stays deep at all hours: according to the guides consulted in October 2026, the tide has little effect here and you can swim almost all day, which is rare in Zanzibar. The beach is wide, the sand very white, and the mood more relaxed than in Nungwi, with hotels and bars lined up on the sand. It is also the home of the famous full-moon party. It is the right choice if daily swimming matters more to you than a choice of restaurants.
Highlights
The beach and its pier
White sand, clear water and a wooden jetty: the classic Kendwa scene. The sea deepens fairly quickly, so you can swim without a long walk through shallows.
The thatch parasols
Palm-thatch parasols and sunbeds on the sand in front of several hotels. Calmer than central Nungwi.
The full-moon party
Every month around the full moon, a big party takes place on the beach; see the Kendwa Rocks Full Moon Party. Book or take your room early for those dates.
The sunset
In the late afternoon the beach faces west: the bars set sunbeds facing the sun.
Practical info
Tips
- Which beach for whom? Kendwa suits couples, families and anyone who wants to swim at any hour without watching the tide. It has fewer restaurants than Nungwi: most people eat in the hotels and on the beach. The two beaches are joined on foot along the sand (allow a few kilometres, best at low tide and in the morning or late afternoon, never in full sun). Beach sellers offer excursions and massages: compare prices. For boat trips, see the Mnemba excursions; for the wider north, the Nungwi and Kendwa guide; to choose a hotel, where to stay in Zanzibar. The information comes from travel guides, not an official beach website.
How to get there
Kendwa is about 1 to 1.5 hours by road from the airport and Stone Town (guide estimate). The simplest way is a private transfer or a taxi booked in advance: see from the airport to your hotel. From Nungwi you can walk along the beach or take a local taxi.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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