Kendwa Beach
Northwest coast of Zanzibar (Unguja), just south of Nungwi
A relaxed, wide white-sand beach with all-day swimming, golden sunsets, and famous full-moon parties.
Coastline
Indian Ocean, northwest coast
Sand & Water
soft white, deep and swimmable at all tides
Best For
Swimming, Sunsets
Kendwa is Nungwi's quieter, more laid-back neighbor, tucked into the northwest corner of Zanzibar a few kilometers down the coast. It shares Nungwi's biggest asset, deep water that lets you swim at any tide, but trades some of the bustle for a wider, more open stretch of soft white sand and a more relaxed pace. Because the beach faces west, Kendwa is also famous for its sunsets, with the sky and the calm sea turning gold each evening.
Kendwa manages to be both mellow by day and fun by night. During the day it is all swimming, lounging, and reef trips; after dark, especially around the full moon, it hosts some of the island's best-known beach parties. It works well for travelers who want easy swimming and a sociable atmosphere without the density of Nungwi, and it is an easy add-on or alternative for anyone basing themselves in the island's north.
Best Time to Visit Kendwa Beach
As with the rest of Zanzibar, the best months are the dry seasons: June to October and December to February. These bring sunshine, calm seas, and reliable swimming. The long rains from late March through May are the wettest and most humid, while November's short rains are lighter. Kendwa's deep water makes swimming dependable whenever the weather is good.
Best Months to Swim
Months to Avoid
Things to Do at Kendwa Beach
All-day swimming
Kendwa's deep, clear water means you can swim at any tide, a rarity on Zanzibar and the beach's main draw.
Snorkeling and reef trips
Boat trips run to nearby reefs and toward Mnemba Atoll for snorkeling over coral and reef fish.
Sunset dhow cruise
West-facing Kendwa is ideal for sunset sails on a traditional dhow, often combined with drinks and music.
Full-moon beach party
Kendwa Rocks and other venues host well-known full-moon parties that draw a crowd from across the island.
Diving
Dive operators on Kendwa and nearby Nungwi access the northern reefs and Mnemba Atoll, with courses for beginners.
Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking
The calm morning water is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking close to shore.
Where to Stay near Kendwa Beach
Kendwa offers a mix of beachfront resorts, mid-range hotels, and a few budget-friendly spots, generally more spread out and lower-key than Nungwi. The beach is fronted by a handful of well-known properties with direct sand access.
Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
$$$Luxury resort
An elegant beachfront resort on one of the best swimming sections, popular with couples.
Kendwa Rocks
$$Mid-range / lively
The original Kendwa hotel, famous for its beach bar and full-moon parties, with rooms across several price tiers.
Sunset Kendwa
$Budget / mid-range
A relaxed, well-priced beachfront option with a sociable bar and restaurant.
Getting to Kendwa Beach
Kendwa lies just south of Nungwi on the northwest coast, around 60 to 90 minutes by road from Zanzibar airport and Stone Town. Some travelers also reach it on foot along the beach from Nungwi at low tide, though a taxi is easier with luggage.
| From | Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Zanzibar airport | Private transfer or taxi | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Stone Town | Road transfer | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Nungwi | Short taxi ride or beach walk | 10 min drive |
Food & Drink
Kendwa's dining centers on beachfront restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood, grilled fish, Swahili curries, and pizza, with a strong cocktail-and-sunset culture. The vibe is casual, with toes-in-the-sand tables and music that builds in the evening, especially at the better-known beach bars.
Safety & Practical Tips
Kendwa is a safe, relaxed beach with a friendly atmosphere. The main considerations are party-night crowds, water safety, and respecting local customs, alongside the usual care with valuables.
- •Keep an eye on belongings during busy party nights
- •Dress modestly when leaving the beach for the village
- •Use the hotel safe for passports and cash
- •Drink responsibly near the water at night
- •Choose licensed dive and boat operators
- •Drink bottled or filtered water
Nearby Attractions
Nungwi Beach
Beach
Kendwa's livelier neighbor to the north, with more restaurants, dive shops, and a turtle sanctuary.
Mnemba Atoll
Marine site
Zanzibar's premier snorkel and dive reef, reachable on a day trip from the north coast.
Stone Town
Historic town
The UNESCO-listed old quarter of Zanzibar City, rich in Swahili history, architecture, and markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kendwa or Nungwi better?
Both have deep water for all-day swimming. Kendwa is wider, calmer by day, and a touch more relaxed, while Nungwi is busier with more restaurants, dive shops, and activity. Kendwa edges it for sunsets and a mellow feel; Nungwi for choice and buzz. Many travelers visit both, as they are minutes apart.
Can you swim at Kendwa at low tide?
Yes. Like Nungwi, Kendwa has deep water close to shore, so swimming is possible at all tides, unlike Zanzibar's east-coast beaches where the sea retreats far at low tide.
When are the Kendwa full-moon parties?
Kendwa Rocks and other venues host parties around each full moon, drawing visitors from across the island. Dates follow the lunar calendar, so check locally when you arrive.
How do I get from Stone Town to Kendwa?
It is about a 60 to 90 minute drive by taxi or private transfer to the northwest coast. The road is sealed for most of the way.