With white beaches, sparkling blue seas, and lush palms, the Zanzibar archipelago – more than 40 islands off the Tanzanian coast – is paradise for honeymooners and beach lovers alike. Sand between your toes, a drink in hand, UNESCO-listed Stone Town for the curious: a Zanzibar honeymoon blends true relaxation with just enough adventure.

Which part of Zanzibar has the best beaches?

Nungwi Beach

In the island’s north, Nungwi offers miles of soft white sand, turquoise water, safe swimming, and beautiful boat rides – regularly voted among the world’s best beaches.

Kendwa Beach

Just 3 km from Nungwi in the northwest, dreamy Kendwa is the photographer’s beach, famous for spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

Chumbe Island

Zanzibar’s first marine sanctuary, reachable only by boat, is a must for snorkellers – pristine coral, locally run eco-lodges, and true tranquillity.

Bawe, Changuu, and beyond

Private-island Bawe is minutes from Stone Town by boat; coral-ringed Changuu adds tropical seclusion; and the east and south coasts hold Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Pongwe, Bwejuu, Paje, and Kizimkazi – each with its own character.

Is it safe to swim in Zanzibar?

Generally, yes – Zanzibar is considered very safe for swimming. Dive boots protect against sea urchins, and the only sharks typically encountered are small reef sharks that avoid humans.

Combine bush and beach

Zanzibar is the perfect finale to a safari – pair it with the Serengeti or a Kenya safari, or browse our honeymoon safaris. Plan your Zanzibar honeymoon package with our experts.

Things to do on a Zanzibar honeymoon

Beyond simply relaxing on the beach, Zanzibar offers couples plenty of romantic experiences: explore the historic alleys and spice-trading heritage of Stone Town, take a sunset dhow cruise, snorkel or dive the coral reefs, swim with dolphins off the south coast, or visit a spice farm to taste the cloves and cinnamon that made the island famous. Many resorts offer private candlelit dinners on the sand and couples’ spa treatments.

Best time for a Zanzibar beach honeymoon

Zanzibar is a year-round destination, but the driest, sunniest months – June to October and December to February – are ideal for a beach honeymoon. It pairs beautifully with a Serengeti or Kenya safari for a complete bush-and-beach trip.