Beaches

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Zanzibar

Known as the Spice Island, the island archipelago of Zanzibar has earned its place as a popular tourist attraction. Set in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar features pure sand beaches and incredible marine life. Travelers may snorkel, dive or swim around coral reefs, or try out deep-sea fishing or kite surfing.

Stonetown is bursting with history and culture, travelers can immerse themselves in history or music and arts in this ancient town.

Finally, visitors are encouraged to take a spice tour to learn how vanilla, cloves and other spices are locally grown on the island.

Old Stone town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as an active city with neighborhoods and festival.

Places and events of note include:

  • The Old Slave Market
  • Forodhani Gardens
  • Freddy Mercury Museum
  • Zanzibar International Film Festival
  • Sauti za Busara Music Festival
  • Zanzibar International Jazz Festival

Mafia

For a more secluded beach experience, consider a visit to beautiful Mafia Island. While less developed than Zanzibar, Mafia still has beautiful beaches, incredible marine life, but without the crowds.

Another draw of this island is the annual migration of whale sharks past Mafia Island. Every year, from October to early February, visitors can swim along with these beautiful, but gentle animals (they only eat plankton – not humans!) in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Other beaches of note include:

Pemba

Zanzibar is technically composed of two islands; the larger, more popular “Unguja” (commonly termed ‘Zanzibar’) and the smaller Pemba. Pemba has fewer beaches but plenty of marine life and reefs to delight divers. The main spice grown on Pemba Island is cloves.

Dar es Salaam

Tanzania’s largest city not only has some nice beaches, but also small islands that are nature reserves. Travelers may visit Bongoyo Island or Mbudya Island for a day trip away from the bustle of the city; enjoy a picnic on the beach, a walk through the island’s forests, or snorkel over the coral reefs for a refreshing day excursion.

Kigamboni

One of Dar’s best beaches, away from the city center. Here is excellent swimming and a local Tanzanian beach experience complete with bright sunshine, cold drinks and plenty of places to sit back and enjoy the ocean-front view.

Pangani

A remote beach in the Tanga province, Pangani offers quiet beaches for relaxation, or marine activities for new adventures. There are opportunities for snorkeling, diving, or ocean kayaking as well as sunset dhow (local wooden boats) rides. Consider pairing a trip to Pangani with a trek in the Usambara Mountains for a unique Tanzanian adventure!

Bagamoyo

Bagamoyo is a small town with much of the same appeal of Zanzibar: arts, culture and history - but without the touristy price tag. It is a coastal town, not an island, but still has beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkeling and boating. Bagamoyo also hosts Tanzania’s largest arts festival at the end of September each year.