Kendwa Beach
Zanzibar's Kendwa Beach: famed for its powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round swimming due to minimal tides. A vibrant de...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Kendwa Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Zanzibar's Kendwa Beach: famed for its powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round swimming due to minimal tides. A vibrant destination for sunsets and water sports.
"Best beach in Zanzibar, wide and large beach with lots of hotels/bars and activities going on. It is lively and especially beautiful with the sunset"
🌅 Embrace the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets; consider a sunset cruise for a magical experience.
💧 Swim Anytime
Enjoy swimming all day thanks to minimal tidal changes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sands
Miles of soft, white sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a postcard-perfect tropical paradise.
Spectacular Sunsets
Witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors, a truly magical end to the day.

Year-Round Swimming
Enjoy swimming anytime, as Kendwa Beach is not significantly affected by tidal changes, unlike other spots.

Vibrant Beach Atmosphere
Experience a lively beach scene with resorts, bars, and various water activities for an energetic vibe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Beach Hustle
Tidal Independence
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Embrace the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets; consider a sunset cruise for a magical experience.
💧 Swim Anytime
Enjoy swimming all day thanks to minimal tidal changes.
🛍️ Vendor Negotiation
Be prepared for persistent vendors; a polite 'no thank you' usually suffices.
🐴 Ocean Horse Rides
Experience unique horse riding and swimming sessions right in the ocean.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Embrace the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets; consider a sunset cruise for a magical experience.
💧 Swim Anytime
Enjoy swimming all day thanks to minimal tidal changes.
🛍️ Vendor Negotiation
Be prepared for persistent vendors; a polite 'no thank you' usually suffices.
🐴 Ocean Horse Rides
Experience unique horse riding and swimming sessions right in the ocean.
✈️ Travel Light
Pack light for easy travel around Zanzibar, especially if island hopping.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kendwa Beach is lauded for its stunning white sands and consistently swimmable turquoise waters, making it a top choice for beach lovers. Visitors rave about the spectacular sunsets and the lively atmosphere with plenty of activities. However, some find the persistent vendors and the presence of large resorts detract from a peaceful experience, leading to disappointment for those seeking pristine tranquility.
"If you like a noisy, crowded, and dirty beach, this is the place for you. The water is nice, but you have to stay alert to avoid getting run over by jet skis or boats. If you turn toward the sand, all you’ll see are gigantic resorts. When you’re not in the water, be prepared to be constantly harassed by vendors.
I was very disappointed, and I wish reviews and bloggers had been honest about what you actually find in Kendwa."
Marilia Marasciulo
"Best beach in Zanzibar, wide and large beach with lots of hotels/bars and activities going on. It is lively and especially beautiful with the sunset"
Shingovida
"Praia é muito bonita. Mas muito suja cheia de plástico garrafas cigarros. Quem suja são os próprios moradores. Os vendedores são insuportáveis. Não volto mais a Zanzibar"
allanporai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kendwa Beach from Stone Town by taxi or a shared dala-dala (minibus). Taxis are more convenient but pricier, while dala-dalas are budget-friendly but can be crowded and make multiple stops. The journey typically takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Yes, taxis and dala-dalas are usually available at Kendwa Beach for onward travel. You can also arrange transport through your accommodation.
For longer distances, taxis are comfortable. For shorter trips and a local experience, dala-dalas are very affordable. Renting a scooter is also an option for more freedom, but be cautious of road conditions.
Many hotels and resorts offer direct transfer services from Zanzibar's airport (ZNZ) or ferry terminal to Kendwa Beach, which can be pre-booked.
Kendwa Beach is located just south of Nungwi, about a 10-15 minute drive or a pleasant walk along the coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kendwa Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. However, some resorts might have access restrictions for non-guests, though generally, the public can access the sand and water.
Kendwa Beach is accessible 24/7 as it's a public area. However, activities and services offered by resorts and vendors operate during daylight hours.
You don't need to book anything to visit the beach itself. However, if you plan on taking sunset cruises, horse riding, or dining at specific popular restaurants, advance booking is recommended.
While the beach is free, be aware of potential costs for sun loungers (if not staying at a resort), food and drinks from vendors, and activities. Bargaining is common for services.
Yes, Kendwa Beach is a public beach, and you can access it freely. Resorts line the beach, but public access points are available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kendwa offers a variety of activities including swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, and sunset cruises. Horse riding in the ocean is also a unique option.
Yes, Kendwa Beach is excellent for swimming as it has calm, clear waters and is not significantly affected by tides, allowing for swimming at any time.
The sand at Kendwa Beach is famously soft, white, and powdery, contributing to its reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches.
Kendwa can get crowded, especially during peak season and weekends, due to its popularity. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can offer a more relaxed experience.
Restrooms and changing facilities are typically available at the resorts and beach bars along Kendwa Beach, though they may be for customer use only.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a range of dining options from beach bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood, local Zanzibari dishes, and international cuisine. Many resorts also have their own dining establishments.
While resorts can be pricey, local vendors and smaller eateries might offer more budget-friendly options. It's worth exploring beyond the main resort areas.
Yes, numerous vendors sell drinks, snacks, and fresh fruit directly on the beach, making it easy to stay refreshed.
Don't miss trying Zanzibari pizza, seafood curries, pilau rice, and fresh tropical fruits like mango and passionfruit.
Many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegetarian or vegan dishes upon request, especially if you communicate your needs clearly.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of white sand and turquoise water is photogenic. Look for palm trees, local dhow boats, and the vibrant sunset for stunning shots.
Drone photography is often featured in promotional content for Kendwa Beach, but it's advisable to check local regulations and respect privacy before flying a drone.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon provides dramatic lighting for sunset shots. The midday sun can be harsh.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially vendors. Some may expect a small tip.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kendwa Beach Experience: Beyond the Sand
Beyond its natural allure, Kendwa offers a lively atmosphere. The shoreline is dotted with resorts, hotels, and beach bars, creating a vibrant scene. Visitors can partake in various water sports like snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing. For a unique experience, horse riding sessions that include swimming with the horses in the ocean are available. While the beach is public, the presence of resorts means amenities like sun loungers and restaurants are readily accessible, though often at a price.
However, it's important to be aware of the 'hustle' that can accompany popular tourist spots. Some visitors report feeling overwhelmed by persistent vendors. While many locals are friendly and open to conversation, the constant sales pitches can detract from the experience for some. Despite this, Kendwa remains a top destination for its beauty and consistent swimming conditions, making it a must-visit for many Zanzibar travelers.
Navigating Kendwa: Transport and Logistics
Once you're at Kendwa, getting around is relatively easy. Taxis are usually available for onward journeys, and many accommodations can assist with arranging transport. For those seeking more independence, renting a scooter is an option, but it's crucial to be mindful of road conditions, which can vary. The proximity to Nungwi, another popular beach destination, means it's just a short drive or a scenic walk away, allowing for easy exploration of both areas.
When planning your trip, consider that while the beach itself is free to access, services like sun loungers or specific activities will incur costs. It's always a good idea to confirm prices and potentially negotiate, especially with vendors offering tours or goods. For a seamless experience, pre-booking airport transfers or excursions like sunset cruises can save time and hassle upon arrival.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit