Nungwi, at the northern tip of Zanzibar, is the island's liveliest beach resort: a long white-sand beach, beach bars, divers, dhows and a fishing village right behind. It is the beach to choose for going out in the evening, watching the sun set into the ocean and heading off on excursions (Mnemba, diving). It is much less affected by the tide than the east coast, but not entirely: according to the guides consulted in October 2026, the sea pulls back a little at low tide on some stretches. Check the day's tide before planning a long swim or a snorkelling trip.
Highlights
The beach and turquoise water
Very fine white sand and clear water, with dhows out at sea. At high tide, swimming is easy in front of most hotels on the northern part of the beach.
The beach bars
Right on the sand, relaxed bars and restaurants with sunbeds and string lights in the evening. This is where most travellers end the day.
The sunset
Nungwi looks west and north: in the late afternoon, people settle in front of the sea to watch the sun disappear. It is the liveliest moment on the beach.
The dhow yards
At the end of the beach, carpenters still build wooden boats by hand; see the village of Nungwi.
Practical info
Tips
- Which beach for whom? Nungwi suits those who want activity, restaurants within walking distance and a wide choice of places to stay, from hostels to resorts. For a sea with no tidal change and a calmer mood, look at Kendwa Beach, close by. For peace and quiet, prefer Matemwe. Zanzibar is a Muslim island: swimwear on the beach is normal; in the village, cover your shoulders and knees. Beach sellers (beach boys) offer excursions and souvenirs: always agree the price and what is included before getting in a boat, and compare with the Mnemba excursions. For diving, see diving in Zanzibar. Seaweed is mostly an east-coast issue; here it is rarely a problem according to the guides consulted, but ask your hotel. To choose an area, read the Nungwi and Kendwa guide and where to stay in Zanzibar. The information comes from travel guides, not an official beach website.
How to get there
Nungwi is about 1 to 1.5 hours by car from Zanzibar airport and Stone Town (guide estimates, depending on the road and traffic); confirm the time with your driver. Taxi or private transfer booked in advance: see from the airport to your hotel. Dala-dalas (shared minibuses) also link Stone Town to the north, less comfortably; check the routes on the spot.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
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