The best beaches to visit during your holiday in Tanzania [VIDEO]
Looking for the perfect swim, sunset or seafood braai? Tanzania beaches will make any South African feel right at home by the sea.
If you love the sea, sand and sun, Tanzania will steal your heart. Whether you’re walking barefoot through Zanzibar’s white sands or sipping coconut water on Tanzania’s mainland, the beach culture here feels like home – warm, friendly and peaceful.
For South Africans who crave the sea, Tanzania’s coastline stretches over 1 400 kilometres of paradise.
Here are five beaches you simply can’t miss during your time in Tanzania.
1. Nungwi Beach
Found at the northern tip of Zanzibar Island, Nungwi is where the turquoise sea meets soft coral sand. It’s one of the few beaches where the tides don’t pull far out, so you can swim all day. Locals say “the ocean never sleeps here.”
Nungwi is famous for its lively evenings filled with music, fresh seafood braais and dhow boats gliding by under the sunset. Swimming is safe, and dive centres offer lessons for beginners.
You’ll also find beach bars, hotels and seafood grills lining the shore.
Entry is free, though loungers and facilities may charge a small fee (around R50–R80).
Expect to pay about R2 000–R3 000 for a flight from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar and a taxi ride of R400–R600 from Stone Town.
Note: Do dress modestly when exploring beyond the beach, and don’t collect coral – it’s protected.
2. Kendwa Beach
Just a short drive southwest of Nungwi lies Kendwa, a beach loved for its wide sands and postcard-perfect sunsets.
What makes it unique is its consistent water level, perfect for long swims. Kendwa hosts famous full-moon parties that attract travellers from around the world, lively yet family-friendly.
There’s no entry fee, and swimming facilities are well maintained. Food options range from local grilled fish and chips (R70–R120) to fine dining at beachfront resorts.
Accommodation is pricier, but worth it for the view. Getting here from Stone Town costs roughly R400 by taxi or R250 by shared minibus.
Note: Do carry sunscreen and a sarong for respectful coverage, and don’t underestimate the sun, it’s fierce here.
3. Matemwe Beach
If you love calm, Matemwe on Zanzibar’s northeast coast is your sanctuary. Long, quiet stretches of sand meet the sea in soft whispers. It’s also the gateway to Mnemba Atoll, one of East Africa’s most beautiful diving and snorkeling spots.
Matemwe is ideal for travellers who enjoy privacy, boutique lodges and scenic morning walks. Swimming is best at mid to high tide due to the coral reef.
Fresh fruit stalls and seaside restaurants serve everything from grilled lobster (R150–R250) to local chapati and stew.
Taxi rides from Stone Town cost about R500–R600, and there’s no entry fee to the beach itself. It’s perfect for those wanting less crowd and more ocean breeze.
4. Fumba Beach
On Zanzibar’s quieter southwest coast, Fumba Beach feels untouched. It sits near Menai Bay Marine Conservation Area, famous for dolphin spotting and coral snorkeling. This is where you come to escape noise and find peace.
Entry is free, and swimming areas are safe but not crowded. Resorts nearby offer day passes (R200–R300) that include beach access, pools and meals.
Local fishermen sometimes offer dhow trips for around R250–R400, and you can enjoy a simple seafood lunch for R80–R100.
A taxi from Stone Town takes about 40 minutes (R350–R450).
Note: Do pack extra water and snacks – shops are limited – and don’t litter, as locals take great pride in keeping it pristine.
5. Pangani Beach – Tanzania’s mainland secret
For those who want to experience mainland charm, Pangani Beach in Tanga region is a dream. It’s less touristy but equally stunning, lined with palm trees and small fishing villages.
The waters are warm and clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling around Maziwi Island Marine Reserve.
There’s a small community entry fee of about R30–R50 that supports local conservation. Beach lodges provide meals, hammocks and even cooking classes for R150–R250.
Pangani has few crowds, which makes it ideal for couples or families looking for peace.
Travelling from Dar es Salaam takes roughly 6-7 hours by road (R400–R600 for buses or private car hire), or you can take a short flight to Tanga for R1 500–R2 000 and continue by taxi.
Note: Do bring mosquito repellent and cash – ATMs are rare. Don’t miss sunset walks when the tide kisses the sand in gold
Why Tanzania’s beaches stand out
What ties all these beaches together is the feeling of peace. Whether you’re floating in Fumba’s quiet bay or sipping coconut water at Nungwi, Tanzanians will greet you like family.
The culture of respect, warmth and calm means even solo travellers feel at home.
So, if you’re a South African craving sea air and simplicity, pack light, grab your flip-flops, and come see why the Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets are waiting right here in Tanzania.