Travel Plan
Nungwi Beach

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Nungwi Beach

Zanzibar's northern tip: white sand you can swim at all tides, dhow builders and golden sunsets.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Full day
Entry
Free
Best time
June–October
Area
North coast

Lively beach in the north with swimming at any tide.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Nungwi, North Unguja, Zanzibar

  • From Stone Town: About 1–1.5 hours by car.
  • Tides: Unlike the east coast, Nungwi has deep water at most tides — good for swimming.
  • Dress: Swimwear on the beach is fine; cover up in the village.

The story of Nungwi Beach

Nungwi is a fishing village at the northern tip of Zanzibar, where boat builders still craft traditional wooden dhows by hand on the beach.

Its west-facing beaches have some of the island's best sunsets. Nearby, the Mnarani Aquarium cares for rescued sea turtles.

Best time to visit

Best season

June–October and December–February.

Best time of day

Sunset.

Rainy season

March–May has heavy rain.

Tips before you go

  • Best for sunsets and swimming.
  • Take a sunset dhow cruise.
  • Visit the turtle aquarium in the village.

Best hotels near Nungwi Beach

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Zuri Zanzibar

Beach resort near Kendwa.

See prices

Melia Zanzibar

Resort on the northeast coast.

See prices

The Residence Zanzibar

Villas on the southwest coast.

See prices
All hotels near Nungwi Beach

What's around Nungwi Beach

  • Kendwa BeachNext beach south.
  • Mnarani AquariumTurtle sanctuary.
  • Mnemba AtollSnorkel trips.
  • Nungwi lighthouseAt the northern point.

Questions travellers ask

Can I swim at all tides?

Mostly yes, unlike the east coast.

Is it good for sunsets?

Yes, it faces west.

What are dhows?

Traditional wooden sailing boats.

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Paje Beach

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Back to the Zanzibar beaches guide
Travel Plan · Nungwi Beach Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure