Interest
Beaches
Tanzania’s coastline along the Indian Ocean features diverse beaches ranging from lively urban shores to remote, undeveloped stretches of sand. Major coastal areas include Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and Tanga on the mainland, each with beaches offering unique experiences like traditional dhow building, cultural landmarks, and nearby wildlife habitats. The Zanzibar Archipelago, comprising Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Pemba, and smaller islets, is famous for its powdery white sands, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs that attract marine enthusiasts for snorkeling and diving.
The coastal and island beaches are integral to Tanzania’s ecosystems, with many lined by coral reefs, mangrove forests, and tidal estuaries that support diverse marine life and bird species. Conservation areas like Chumbe Island Coral Park and Misali Island protect delicate reefs and wildlife habitats, offering eco-friendly tourism options. The country’s beaches vary widely in atmosphere—from lively social hubs with restaurants and entertainment to secluded shores focused on conservation and natural beauty—providing a range of coastal experiences for travelers.
Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s bustling commercial capital, is not only a vibrant urban center but also a gateway to some of the country's finest beaches. The city boasts a picturesque coastline along the Indian Ocean, offering a mix of lively urban beaches and tranquil escapes. Popular spots like Coco Beach and Msasani Peninsula attract locals and tourists alike, providing opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local cuisine at beachside restaurants.
Coco Beach
Free
Coco Beach is the go-to beach for locals, especially on weekends. Known for its lively atmosphere, this beach has vendors selling fresh coconuts, seafood, and street food. Beachgoers can enjoy live music events and occasional food festivals, making it a vibrant spot with lots of activities, including volleyball and local craft shopping.​​​
Mbudya Island
Etrance fee: $8.3
A short boat ride from Dar es Salaam, Mbudya Island is part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve and offers one of the most scenic beach experiences near the city. With powdery white sand and clear blue waters, it's perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. The island has a few local vendors selling refreshments and renting umbrellas and beach chairs, allowing visitors to spend the entire day exploring and relaxing.​​​
Bogoyo Island
Etrance fee: $11.8 for adults & $5.9 for persons under 16
Another gem within the marine reserve, Bongoyo Island is known for its laid-back vibe, with beautiful sandy beaches and opportunities for snorkeling and hiking. The island has a small restaurant serving fresh seafood and drinks, adding to the casual charm of Bongoyo. It’s a great spot to explore coral reefs and unwind away from the city crowds.
Kunduchi Beach
Entrance fee: Need more research
Located north of Dar es Salaam, Kunduchi Beach is home to several luxury resorts, making it ideal for those seeking a more upscale beach experience. It has soft sands and calm waters, perfect for relaxation. Close by, you’ll also find Kunduchi Wet 'N' Wild Water Park, a popular spot for families. Kunduchi Beach is also known for water sports, including jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and kite surfing.​​​
Sinda Island
​Entrance fee: Need more research
Part of the Sinda Islands cluster, this beach is less commercialized and is ideal for those seeking a private, secluded experience. The waters around Sinda are excellent for snorkeling and diving, with coral reefs, colorful fish, and other marine life to explore. Reaching Sinda typically involves arranging a private boat from the mainland, making it a quieter, off-the-beaten-path option.​​​
Bagamoyo and Tanga
Bagamoyo is a historic coastal town that blends rich cultural heritage with beautiful beachfront scenery. Once a key trading port in East Africa, it features several stunning beaches that reflect its historical significance and natural beauty.
Tanga, located on Tanzania's northern coast, is known for its unspoiled beaches and rich maritime history. The region's beaches, such as Tanga Beach and Mwambani Beach, provide stunning views of the Indian Ocean and opportunities for water sports like snorkeling and diving. The town's laid-back atmosphere, coupled with opportunities for local cultural experiences, allows visitors to enjoy both the scenic coastline and the historical landmarks that tell the story of Tanzania's past.
Bagamoyo Beach
Bagamoyo l Free
Located close to the historic Bagamoyo town center, Bagamoyo Beach is a peaceful spot with white sands and calm waters. It’s surrounded by cultural landmarks, including the Old Fort and the Catholic Mission, which offer a fascinating look into Bagamoyo’s historical significance as a slave port and trade center.​​​
Kaole Beach
Bagamoyo l Free
South of Bagamoyo town, Kaole Beach is known for its proximity to the ancient Kaole Ruins. These ruins date back to the 13th century and include remnants of an old mosque and tombs, offering a glimpse into the region's Islamic history. The beach itself is quiet and relatively undeveloped, making it perfect for a peaceful day by the ocean.​​​
Ushogo Beach
Tanga l Free
​While technically closer to the town of Pangani, Ushongo Beach is often associated with Tanga due to its proximity and accessibility from Tanga. Ushongo is a serene, sandy beach with clear blue waters, popular for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Several eco-lodges line the beach, providing opportunities for accommodation in an eco-friendly setting. Ushongo is ideal for relaxation, as it’s rarely crowded and offers scenic views of the Indian Ocean and nearby islets.
Amboni Beach
Tanga l Free
Located near Tanga town, Tanga Beach (or Amboni Beach) is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The beach has calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming and beach walks. It’s close to the Amboni Caves, the largest limestone caves in East Africa, allowing visitors to combine a beach day with cave exploration. The beach is lined with small, local cafes, and it’s common to see fishing boats in the distance, making it a picturesque place for relaxing by the shore.​​​
Mwambani Beach
Free
Just south of Tanga town, Mwambani Beach is known for its peaceful setting and clear waters. It’s ideal for a secluded day of sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the nearby coral reefs. Mwambani is also a prime spot for diving and snorkeling, as the reefs are teeming with marine life. The beach is often quiet and is great for visitors who want to escape the busier areas and enjoy the beauty of Tanga’s coastline.​​​
Zanzibar Archipelago
​The Zanzibar Archipelago, comprising Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Pemba, and several smaller islands, is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant marine ecosystems. With powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs, the archipelago is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Nungwi Beach
Unguja l Free
Nungwi is one of the island’s most popular beaches. Known for its powdery white sand and clear blue waters, Nungwi is a prime spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying lively beach bars and restaurants. The beach is home to dhow-building activities, and visitors can join sunset cruises on traditional dhow boats. Nungwi is also famous for its nightlife, with beachside parties and music events.​​​
Kendwa Beach
Unguja l Free
Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa Beach offers a slightly quieter but equally stunning setting. Its calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming regardless of the tides. Kendwa is known for its monthly Full Moon Party, which draws visitors for live music, dancing, and socializing.​​​
Vumawingi Beach
Pemba l Free
Located on the eastern coast of Pemba, Vumawimbi Beach is a secluded, untouched beach with soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Known for its peaceful surroundings and lack of commercialization, Vumawimbi is perfect for a quiet escape. The beach is close to the Ngezi Forest Reserve, allowing visitors to explore both forest and coastal landscapes.
Nakupenda Sandbankds
Unguja l Free
Nakupenda, meaning "I love you" in Swahili, is a stunning sandbank located off Stone Town. This unique, temporary beach appears at low tide and offers a picturesque setting surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Boat trips to Nakupenda are popular for day tours, allowing visitors to spend time on this “disappearing island” before the tide returns.​​​
Mbuyuni Beach
Free
On the northern coast of Pemba, Mbuyuni Beach is a small, quiet beach near the town of Wete. It’s known for its clear waters and nearby mangrove forests, making it a scenic spot for kayaking and birdwatching. The beach is perfect for those seeking a peaceful day of swimming and sunbathing, with views of traditional dhow boats along the coast.​​​
Utende Beach
Mafia Island l Entrance Fee: $23.6 for adults & $12 for persons under 15 years
Located on the eastern side of Mafia, Utende Beach is part of the Mafia Island Marine Park. The beach offers stunning views and easy access to diving sites. Utende is calm and quiet, ideal for snorkeling and diving, as well as boat trips to nearby sandbanks and coral gardens.​​​
Bwejuu Beach
Mafia Island l Free
Bawe Island, situated about 5 km from Stone Town, offers an intimate beach experience. The island is known for its snorkeling and diving opportunities, with coral reefs just offshore. Bawe Island is a quieter alternative to Prison Island, making it a lovely spot for couples or those seeking a peaceful day of sunbathing, swimming, and exploring marine life.​​​