Paje, on the south-east coast of Zanzibar, is the island's kitesurfing capital: a shallow lagoon, steady wind and a young atmosphere, with schools, cafés and hostels along the beach. But it is also the beach where the tide changes everything: at low tide the sea pulls back very far and you walk a long way through the shallows, past seaweed farms, before finding water to swim in; at high tide swimming is lovely and the lagoon fills up. Before booking here, look at the tide times: they decide your day.
Highlights
Paje at low tide
An immense white sandbank streaked by water, with the sea far away. This is the time to walk, to see fishermen and seaweed farmers, but not to swim.
Seaweed and wind
Rows of stakes where seaweed grows, farmed mostly by women, and a constant wind that makes Paje a well-known kite spot.
Kitesurfing
Schools offer beginner lessons and equipment hire; prices and seasons are in Kitesurfing in Paje.
Jozani Forest
The red colobus monkeys are a short drive away; see Jozani Forest.
Practical info
Tips
- Which beach for whom? Paje suits kitesurfers, young travellers, tight budgets and anyone who likes a lively beach in the evening. It is not the best for swimming at any hour: if that is your priority, look at Kendwa or Nungwi instead. Seaweed: farmed seaweed and drifting seaweed can be found on the sand depending on the season and the wind; sources do not agree on the months, and hotels often clean the front of their beach. Ask your hotel before booking. For calmer neighbouring beaches, see Jambiani and the Paje and Jambiani guide. To compare hotel areas, read where to stay in Zanzibar. Wear water shoes to walk in the lagoon (sea urchins). The information comes from travel guides, not an official beach website.
How to get there
Paje is about 1 hour by road from the airport and Stone Town (guide estimate). Private transfer or taxi booked in advance: see from the airport to your hotel. Dala-dalas also link Stone Town to Paje; check the routes on the spot.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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