Zanzibar Beach Holidays: Luxury Hotels and Adventure-Packed Island

Zanzibar island is one of the most captivating destinations in East Africa. Located off the coast of Tanzania, the island offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. 

Zanzibar beach holidays are exciting. The exotic and mysterious island is one of the safest to travel to in Africa. With so much to do on the island, you are sure to enjoy every minute of your holiday. In this article, we share some of the most important tips including the best beaches to explore, where to stay, and travel tips. 

Interesting Facts About Zanzibar

• Zanzibar is an Arabic name that means “coast of black people.” 
• Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous island of Tanzania and part of the Zanzibar Archipelago
• Located 25 – 40 km off the Tanzania mainland coast, it comprises numerous small islands (islets) with the two huge ones being Pemba and Unguja Islands 
• The warm weather makes Zanzibar beach holidays enjoyable all-year-round destination 
• Several wildlife animals can be found in Zanzibar, including the Red Colobus Monkey, Zanzibar leopard, and Servaline Genet 
• The largest portion of Zanzibar is Muslim and locals use Swahili as the primary spoken language 

What Makes Zanzibar Beach Holidays Special 

Zanzibar is a popular post-safari destination that has some of the most stunning beaches in the world. A visit to the island offers you more than just the breathtaking views of the beaches. Zanzibar beach holidays may include:

• A tour of the famous Stone Town
• Tons of activities
• Staying in luxury hotels and accommodation 
• Seeing wildlife on an island 
• Going for a spice trip, and more

With Zanzibar beach honeymoon packages always on offer, the island is a perfect destination for the newlyweds. You can spend some quality time with each other and get to relax after the busy marriage ceremonies. For some couples, this is also a great place to hold their destination wedding and enjoy their honeymoon in the days after. 

Top Zanzibar Beach Activities

The pale blue waters and idyllic white-sand beaches make Zanzibar an activity-rich island. However, it also has a rich history and culture, unusual wildlife, beautiful architecture, incredible cuisine, long walks, and more for you to create lifetime memories. Here is a combination of the top Zanzibar beach activities that you can explore during your holiday: 

Visit The Famous Stone Town

Zanzibar beach holidays are not complete without a visit to Stone Town. This is one of the oldest cities in Africa and is known for holding some of the oldest architectural constructions and rich history. It is also a world heritage site protected by UNESCO and our trip there will be filled with history and mystery to explore. A visit to this town offers a unique experience for every visitor, including a tour of “The House of Wonders.” 

Stay At Zanzibar Luxury Beach Hotels

Zanzibar beach resorts and hotels offer the ultimate luxury accommodation. You have a choice of some of the most authentic and distinct accommodation options that the Archipelago of Zanzibar has to offer. Enjoy a serene time during your Zanzibar Beach holiday while exploring the activities offered at respective beaches. 

Get a Romantic Relaxation

The island is known as Zanzibar Beach honeymoon for a reason. It provides the perfect combination of relaxation and activities to enjoy your honeymoon. You can spice things up on the Spice Island or enjoy the sunset by the shoreline. Whether you are looking for a honeymoon, some quality time with a lover, or a wedding destination, Zanzibar is a perfect choice. 

Enjoy Zanzibar Snorkeling and Diving

If you are looking for something more active, Zanzibar offers a wide range of beach activities. With the balmy weather and sugar-white beaches, there is always something to do and enjoy. Swimming, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and kite surfing are available. The activities also allow you to see a sea full of marine life, including green turtles, emperor angelfish., manta rays, lionfish, butterfly fish, and dolphins. 

Make a Trip to Zanzibar Spice Plantation 

The Zanzibari spice plantation is another iconic attraction on the island. A visit to the plantation takes you on an aromatic spice tour of different flavors used by the locals. The spices have made Zanzibar a hub for spice cultivation originally introduced by Portuguese traders to the island in the 16th century. 

The Zanzibar spice tour involves a trip to the spice cultivation fields, locally known as Shamba. Get to smell and test some lemongrass, close, cinnamon, nutmeg, turmeric, black pepper, cardamon and chili. There is also a variety of fruits such as jack fruit, papaya, and coconut as well as roots like cassava. 

See Wildlife at the Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is the only national park in Zanzibar and offers a unique experience for visitors. Known as the home to red colobus monkeys, most people visit the park to see these indigenous and endangered animals. Other wildlife found at Jozani forest includes over 40 species of birds, hundreds of butterfly species duikers, bushbabies, and many more. 

Experience the Zanzibar Nightlife

The nightlife of Zanzibar offers everything you could wish for. From traditional restaurants to a touch of modern world-class new hotels, you get a variety to choose from. You can explore street foods at night, including local Zanzibari cuisine and fresh seafood.

Zanzibar Submarine

For a truly unique experience, embark on an underwater adventure with the Zanzibar Submarine. This activity offers an extraordinary way to explore the rich marine life around Zanzibar without getting wet. This semi-submarine provides passengers with stunning views of coral reefs and marine creatures through large, clear windows. It’s an ideal option for families, non-divers, or anyone looking to experience the underwater beauty of Zanzibar in a safe and comfortable environment.

Discover the Best Beaches in Zanzibar

The quiet and warm beaches define Zanzibar beach holidays. Each is unique in its own way, and no one’s experience is like the other. Let’s have a look at the best beaches in Zanzibar, including activities and where to stay: 

Nungwi Beach: 

On top of the list is Nungwi Beach, known for its white sand, breathtaking boat rides, turquoise blue water, and safe swimming sites. Voted as one of the best 100 beaches in the world by CNN, Nungwi offers an exciting experience for all visitors. It is also the third-largest beach settlement of the Zanzibar Archipelago. So, you are guaranteed to have an exceptional experience at the beach. 

• Nungwi Beach Activities: Explore fishing villages, dhow building centers, and immerse in the culture of the iconic beach destination.
• Accommodation: Some of the best Zanzibar beach accommodations are found at Nungwi. The Beach is known to have the best Zanzibar luxury beach hotels. Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar is a popular choice, loved for its impeccable services, lush gardens, and views of the Indian Ocen. 

Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach is one of the dreamiest beaches in Zanzibar. Located just 3km from Nungwi Beach, Kendwa offers a picture-perfect site for relaxing and silence. 

• Kengwa Beach Activities: Catch sunsets at the Rocks Beach Bar & Restaurant and explore other attractions at the beach. You can also swim and snorkel in the still waters or go for long beach walks with the blue skies and ocean creating a beautiful backdrop. Lounging by the beach or going for cocktails at the bars are great options too. 
• Accommodation: At Kengwa Beach, you can opt for Zanzibar beach resorts. The accommodation options here are impressive, with the Kendwa Rocks Resorts offering some of the best services. 

Chumbe Beach

This is a favorite for snorkelers, offering you the ultimate water sports experience. Although the island is only accessible by boat, the time spent here is worth it. 

• Chumbe Beach Activities: You take a boat ride in the tranquil blue water of the Indian Ocean and get welcome to an eco-lodge run by locals to offer you a genuine African hosting experience.
• Accommodation: You can stay at the Chumbe Island Coral Park, which offers eco-bungalows to visitors. 

Pongwe Beach

Located to the South of Zanzibar, Pongwe Beach offers a fascinating view with an offshore reef stretching across the shoreline. You will enjoy the quiet open space and ambience that defines the beach.

• Pongwe Beach Activities: The beach is ideal for swimming and diving, but the peaceful quietness goes well with a glass of wine and sun. Boat trips, exploring museums, and catching a movie at the theatre are also a thing in Pongwe.
• Accommodation: Although the accommodation at Pongwe does not stand out as much as other beaches, there are few hotels and restaurants available. The Pongwe Beach Hotel is an obvious choice. 

Changu Beach

Also known as Prison Island, Changuu Beach is one of the most iconic places in Zanzibar. The exquisite beach is surrounded by the turquoise-blue water of the Indian Ocean and offers great views of tropical vegetation and coral reefs. 

• Changu Beach Activities: The prime attraction of Changuu Beach is the tortoise sanctuary. For just $5, you get to meet these giant tortoises and learn about their remarkable history. The Aldabra giant tortoises residing in the sanctuary are some of the largest in the world. 
• Accommodation: At Changu, you will find a few Zanzibar beach resorts, with Changu Beach Resort being the most sought-after. 

Bweju Beach 

If you are looking for a destination that is calm for your soul, Bweju Beach may be all you need. Ranked among the quietest beaches on the island, the beach offers a beautiful shoreline with sandy and palm trees. 

• Bweju Beach Activities: Take a dhow trip or a reef safari while at the Beach. It is also a great place for swimming, diving, snorkeling, or visiting the Jozani Forest. 
• Accommodation: Bweju has some amazing Zanzibar beach resorts, with Baraza Resort being a great choice because of the mind-blowing views of the Indian Ocean. 

Bawe Beach

If you want to enjoy the peace and tranquility of a paradise in Zanzibar, you have to visit Bawe Island. Just like the size of a football pitch, the private island is only a 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town. Once you get here, you will be welcomed by breathtaking views that will make you fall in love with it instantly.

• Bawe Beach Activities: You can spend your time swimming, snorkeling, diving or even sailing. 
• Accommodation: If you are looking to spend your time at Zanzibar luxury beach hotels, then Bawe Beach is a good choice. The Bawe Island Resort provides a mixture of great food, and a serene quiet ambiance overlooking the Indian Ocean. 

Michamvi Beach

With fine-grained sandy beaches, gigantic palm trees, and coral reefs, Michamvi Beach is a delight. There are many activities to do at Michamvi while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

• Michamvi Beach Activities: Kite surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and sailing are the most common. 
• Accommodation: At Michamvi, you get a selection of Zanzibar beach resorts such as the Konokono Resort and Kichanga Lodge, which offer privacy and great personalized services. 

Paje Beach

Are you looking for the ultimate Zanzibar beach activities experience? You may love a tour of Paje Beach. With sky-high palm trees, silky white sands, and a gorgeous shoreline, Paje serves you the best of Zanzibar. The coastline is complete with restaurants, bars, and bungalows to enjoy your holiday.

• Paje Beach Activities:  Enjoy quite a fun-packed Zanzibar beach holiday with beach walks, swimming, diving, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and sunbathing. The clear sky and warmness also create the perfect ambiance for star-lit dinners. 
• Accommodation: You can find Zanzibar luxury beach hotels with top-notch services. The Summer Dream Lodge is one of the most sought-after lodges for its great services and mesmerizing ocean views. You can also stay at Demani Lodge for a quiet and relaxed time. 

Kizimkazi Beach

The beach is located on the Southern coast of Zanzibar, comprising a fishing village of the Kizimkazi Mkunguni and Kizimkazi Dimbani villages. The most attractive feature here is the coral cliff, which raises the beachfront above the ocean to make small rocky beaches. Although tourist visits are minimal here, it is still a worthy visit:

• Kizimkazi Beach Activities: Dolphin safaris, boat rides with views of Kizimkazi scenery, and interaction with Swahili culture in the villages. 
• Accommodation: The main accommodation options at Kizimkazi Beach are the Residence Zanzibar and Unguja Lodge. 

Zanzibar Beach Travel Tips

To make your Zanzibar beach holiday even more exciting, we have compiled a list of general travel tips. Know what to expect and plan accordingly:

1. Pack light: The weather is warm so casual and lightweight clothing will do. Make sure to add a hat, sunscreen, insect repellant, and swimwear.
2. Get yellow fever vaccination: Yellow fever vaccination is needed before entering Zanzibar, especially for guests from other African countries. 
3. Stay hydrated: The warm weather can be hot and humid, and carrying a refillable water bottle will help you stay hydrated. 
4. Respect the local culture: Zanzibar is predominantly a Muslim island, and sensitive to cultural dress code. Covering up your shoulder and up to your knees is mainly expected when going to areas less visited by tourists. However, there are no objections to swimwear while at the beach. 
5. Keep your valuables safe: It is best to leave them at the hotel when you go out. Also, stay alert while in Stone Town so as not to fall prey to bag snatchers and pick-pockets. 
6. Always use a taxi when traveling after dark: Although most beach stretches are safe, taxis are generally safer and more reliable at this time of the hour. You can ask your hotel or a restaurant for one. 
7. Best time to travel: The location of Zanzibar just south of the equator makes it ideal to travel throughout the year because of the warm tropical weather. 

Book Your Next Zanzibar Beach Holiday with Bobby Tours 

With a blend of beauty and some of the finest accommodations, be sure to enjoy world-class services during your stay in Zanzibar. You get a choice of many lodges depending on your budget, and there is always something new to experiment with. 

Bobby Tours will make your dream come true with a tailored Zanzibar experience. The Tanzania-based tour offers tailored-made itineraries, language-specific guides, and competitive prices. Whether you want to combine a Zanzibari beach vacation with a safari on Tanzania’s mainland, the company will make that happen. Plan your trip with Boby Tours today for the best Zanzibar beach vacation packages.