North Coast Zanzibar
Nungwi and Kendwa — Zanzibar's liveliest beach areas with consistent swimming, vibrant nightlife, and spectacular sunsets.
Highlights
Best Time to Visit
The north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa has consistent tides that keep the ocean swimmable at any tide level. **June to October** is the dry season with warm weather and calm seas — ideal for diving and snorkeling. **December to February** is hot and mostly dry. Avoid the **long rains (March to May)** when some hotels close. The **short rains (November)** are brief afternoon showers that rarely disrupt beach days.
Budget Guide
Budget guesthouses in Nungwi $30-60/night. Mid-range hotels $80-200/night. Luxury resorts (Z Hotel, Zuri) $200-500/night. Ultra-luxury (Mnemba Island) $1,200+/night. Diving from $50/dive. Sunset dhow cruises $30/person.
Getting There
Nungwi and Kendwa are 60km (1.5 hours) north of Stone Town by road. Transfer by taxi, shared minibus (dalla dalla), or hotel shuttle. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) receives direct flights from Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and seasonal European charters. Fast ferries from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town take 2 hours.
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