Embarking on an all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar is the classic Indian Ocean dream, offering a perfect blend of luxury. From powder-white sands, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage, without the hassle of planning every detail.
This tropical archipelago, just off the coast of Tanzania, is famous for its peaceful shores and spice-laden history. Opting for a beach holiday in Zanzibar means your days wind up lounging under the sun, indulging in delicious cuisine, and enjoying an array of activities. All while enjoying the warm Swahili hospitality.
This guide tells you everything you need to know, from choosing the perfect resort to understanding local customs, ensuring your holiday here is fantastic.
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Which are the All Inclusive Beach Holiday Zanzibar Resorts?
An array of all-inclusive resorts, suitable for varying budgets and preferences, dot the island of Zanzibar. Famous for their beautiful beaches and calm waters, the most famous are located along the shores to the northeast and southeast. These are some of the best places for an all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar.
- The Z Hotel
- Bwejuu’s Baraza Resort & Spa
- Riu Palace Zanzibar
- Melia Zanzibar
- Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
- Dream of Zanzibar
- Matlai Resort & Beach Hotel
Nungwi’s The Z Hotel and Bwejuu’s Baraza Resort & Spa are perfect for honeymooners and other couples looking for romance and extravagance. The Riu Palace Zanzibar in Nungwi and the Melia Zanzibar on the northeastern coast are two other family-friendly resorts that with large rooms and pools. The Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa in Kiwengwa and the Dream of Zanzibar in Pwani Mchangani are activity-focused hotels.
They are famous for their exciting ambiances, large pools, and water sports. You can also experience a smaller-scale all-inclusive resort with a personal touch at Paje’s Matlai Resort & Beach Hotel. It’s more intimate and cultural in its setting.
Which is the Best Beach to Stay in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar’s coastline is very different; thus, the best beach for you will depend on what you like.
Nungwi & Kendwa (North)
Kenda Beach in Zanzibar. Photo/TripAdvisor
However, Nungwi & Kendwa (North) have the best all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar experience. The beaches here are big, have deep water, with dazzling white sand. You can swim at any tide. Nungwi is lively, with many restaurants and water activities. Kendwa is a little more laid-back and is famous for its full moon celebrations. This is a great place for first-time tourists who want both beauty and convenience.
Paje and Jambiani (Southeast)
Paje Beach in Zanzibar. Photo/Easy Travel Tanzania
These villages are the kitesurfing capital of Zanzibar. They have long, flat, and clean beaches. The blue sea is beautiful, but the tide goes out a long way. This is great for lengthy hikes and investigating tidal pools, but it means you can only swim when the tide is high. The atmosphere here is more relaxed.
Bwejuu and Michamvi (East and Southeast)
These places are quieter and more private. Michamvi is home to The Rock Restaurant. Its beaches are safe from the low tide, so you can swim all day long.
Matemwe (Northeast)
Matemwe Retreat in Matemwe Beach Zanzaibar. Photo/Yellow Zebra Safaris
Matemwe is a fishing town with a laid-back vibe that gives you a real Zanzibari experience. It’s the nearest place to the famed Mnemba Atoll for snorkeling, and the beach is stunning.
What is the Cheapest Month to go to Zanzibar?
The cheapest month to book your all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar is during the long rainy season, from March to May. During this period, you will find the lowest prices for flights and resorts. However, this comes with a trade-off: you can expect heavy, often short-lived, rainfall and higher humidity.
The shorter rainy season in November also offer good deals. For the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices, consider the shoulder months of June and February.
What to be Careful of in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar surfing. Photo/Tanzania specialist
While Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to be mindful of a few things:
Ocean Safety
Always heed the flag system on beaches. Red means no swimming due to strong currents. Be cautious of sea urchins in rocky areas. Water shoes are highly recommended.
Sun Exposure
The equatorial sun is extremely strong. Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated to avoid severe sunburn.
Cultural Sensitivity
Zanzibar is a conservative, predominantly Muslim society. Outside the resort, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) to show respect for the local culture.
Health
Drink only bottled or purified water. Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and take anti-malarial prophylaxis.
What is the Cleanest Beach in Zanzibar?
While many Zanzibar beaches are clean, Kendwa Beach on the northwest coast is the cleanest and most pristine. The hotels that flank the shore take great care of the pristine, white sand. The tide doesn’t change much here, unlike in nearby Nungwi.
This means that the beach stays broad and swimmable all day. The water is clear and doesn’t have any seaweed or rocks in it, which makes it look perfect. This makes it a top choice for people on all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar who want clean, beautiful beaches.
Do and Don’ts of Zanzibar?
Whenever you visit Zanzibar, take heed of the following things that you are at liberty to do and not
DO
- Dress modestly, especially in Stone Town and local villages.
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases like “Jambo” (Hello) and “Asante” (Thank you).
- Carry small bills of Tanzanian Shillings for local markets and tips.
- Haggle politely at markets—it’s expected.
- Try the local Zanzibari cuisine, especially the seafood and spices.
DON’T
- Don’t show public affection, as it is considered disrespectful.
- Don’t photograph locals without their explicit permission.
- Don’t drink tap water. Stick to sealed bottled water.
- Don’t wear beachwear outside of your hotel resort.
- Don’t buy or remove anything from protected marine environments, like corals or shells.
Which Side of Zanzibar is Better to Stay on?
Choosing the right side is crucial for your ideal all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar. Here is a guide on the best side of the island to be in.
The Northeast & Northwest (Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe)
Good for first-time visitors, reliable swimming at any tide, vibrant nightlife (in Nungwi), a wide selection of resorts, and easy access to activities. Nonetheless, it’s busier and less “authentic” than other parts.
The Southeast & East (Paje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi)
Great for Kitesurfing, a laid-back and free-spirited vibe, long, stunning beaches for walking, and a more tranquil, romantic atmosphere. But, the large tidal variation means you must time your swimming with high tide.
Most guests will find that the North and Northeast are superior for swimming, convenience, and a large selection of resort options. The Southeast and East are better for a quiet, windsurfing-focused, and culturally rich holiday. You can make sure that your all inclusive beach holiday Zanzibar fits your travel style by carefully choosing your preferred beach destination.
