Welcome to the definitive guide to Kendwa Beach, crafted by the experts at Blue Green Zanzibar Tours & Safaris.
With over a decade of hands-on experience curating personalized Zanzibar adventures, our team of local guides—born and raised on the island—has explored every corner of Kendwa.
We’ve led countless tours here, from sunset dhow cruises to cultural immersions in nearby villages, earning 5-star reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google for our deep knowledge and commitment to sustainable, authentic travel.
This guide draws on our firsthand expertise, verified sources, and recent visitor insights to help you plan an unforgettable trip while prioritizing responsible tourism.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, we’ll show you why Kendwa isn’t just a beach—it’s a slice of Zanzibar’s soul.
Ready to experience Kendwa with experts? Plan your trip with us today.
Why visit Kendwa Beach?
Kendwa Beach, nestled on the northwest coast of Zanzibar Island, boasts powdery white sands that stretch for over a kilometer, framed by swaying palm trees and lapped by turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Unlike many East Coast beaches plagued by dramatic tidal shifts that expose seaweed and limit swimming, Kendwa’s gentle slope and protected position mean the tide barely recedes—allowing you to swim, snorkel, or float anytime without checking tide charts.
This makes it ideal for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.
Its vibrant yet relaxed vibe combines pristine natural beauty with cultural depth.
Sunsets here are legendary, painting the sky in fiery oranges and pinks as traditional dhow boats sail by. Recent visitors rave about the “paradise found” feel, with luxurious resorts blending seamlessly into the landscape.
Plus, it’s one of the few spots in Zanzibar for unique thrills like skydiving over the ocean, offering bird’s-eye views of coral reefs and coastline.
Pros include all-day swimmable waters and lively evenings; cons are occasional beach vendors (stick to private resort areas to avoid) and higher prices during peak season.
In our experience, Kendwa’s accessibility to nearby attractions like Nungwi Village makes it a perfect base for a multifaceted Zanzibar holiday.
What makes Kendwa 10x better:
- All-day swimmable waters (no tide restrictions).
- Legendary sunsets—a fiery sky with dhows drifting by.
- Adventure options from snorkeling to skydiving over the ocean.
- Proximity to Nungwi Village, Stone Town, and spice farms.
- A unique mix of chill beach vibes and lively nightlife.
How to Get to Kendwa Beach
Flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Stone Town is the easiest entry point—most international flights connect via Dar es Salaam, Doha, or Nairobi.
From the airport, Kendwa is about 50-60 km north, a 1-1.5 hour drive.
We recommend pre-booking a private transfer with us at Blue Green Zanzibar Tours for $35-45 per vehicle—our air-conditioned vans ensure comfort, and our drivers share insider tips en route.
If arriving by ferry from Dar es Salaam (2 hours), hop on a shared shuttle or taxi from Stone Town harbor.
Budget option: Local daladala minibuses from Stone Town, though they’re crowded and take longer (about 2 hours, ~$5).
For island-hoppers, we offer seamless connections from our Stone Town tours directly to Kendwa.
Save time and stress—book your transfer with us
Best Time to Visit Kendwa
Zanzibar’s tropical climate means warm weather year-round, but for Kendwa, aim for the dry season (June to October) when skies are sunny, humidity is low (around 75%), and temperatures hover at 25-30°C (77-86°F).
This period is prime for watersports and minimal rain, though book ahead as it’s peak tourist time.
Shoulder months (May, November) offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with occasional short showers.
Avoid the long rains (March-May) if possible, but even then, mornings are often clear—perfect for our guided excursions.
From our tours, we’ve seen visitors in December-February enjoy festive vibes, though it’s hotter and more humid.
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry (Jun-Oct) | Sunny, warm, low rain | High | Beach activities, diving |
| Shoulder (May, Nov) | Mild, short showers | Medium | Budget travel, solitude |
| Wet (Mar-May) | Rainy afternoons | Low | Cultural tours, lower rates |
| Hot Dry (Dec-Feb) | Hot, humid | High | Festive events, sunsets |
Top Things to Do in Kendwa
Kendwa packs in diverse experiences—here’s our curated list, based on thousands of guest feedback
Beach Relaxation and Swimming
Lounge on the soft sands, build castles with kids, or stroll barefoot. The calm waters are safe for all ages.
Snorkeling and Diving
Rent gear from beach vendors (~$20) or join our guided trips to nearby reefs teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and corals. Mnemba Atoll is a short boat ride away.
Watersports Galore
Try jet skiing, kayaking, kiteboarding, or parasailing. For thrill-seekers, skydiving offers unparalleled views.
Sunset Dhow Cruises
Sail on a traditional wooden boat with drinks and snacks—our tours include live Swahili music for an authentic touch.
Explore Nearby Excursions
Walk to Nungwi Village for aquarium visits, lighthouse climbs, or local markets.
Day trips to Stone Town (UNESCO site) or spice farms via our shuttles.
Cultural Immersions
Join village visits, cooking classes for Swahili dishes, or yoga sessions at sunset. Volunteer in community projects for a meaningful twist.
Horseback Riding
Trot along the shore on guided beach rides suitable for all skill levels, including 1-2 hour sessions at Kendwa beach.
Experience sunset canters through the jungle or even swimming with horses for a unique adventure
Island Hopping
Boat from Kendwa on a day trip to Prison Island (Changuu) to encounter giant Aldabra tortoises, explore historic prison ruins, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Tours often include stops at Nakupenda Sandbank for picnics and swimming, with hotel pickups available.
Nightlife and Events
Catch full moon parties at Kendwa Rocks with fire dancers and DJs—monthly bashes draw thousands for African rhythms and global vibes. Keep an eye on New Year’s celebrations, blending culture and music.
Where to Stay at Kendwa Beach
Kendwa’s options range from eco-luxury to backpacker-friendly, many with direct beach access. Based on our partnerships and guest stays:
| Category | Recommendation | Price Range (per night, USD) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury | Zuri Zanzibar | $400+ | Sustainable design, private villas, infinity pools, spa—EarthCheck Gold certified. |
| Luxury | Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa | $300-500 | Beachfront, all-inclusive, family-friendly with kids’ clubs. |
| Mid-Range | Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel | $150-300 | Lively vibe, full moon party host, bungalows with ocean views. |
| Budget | Kendwa Breeze | $50-100 | Locally owned, pool, short walk to beach—clean and modern. |
| Eco/Boutique | Elewana Kilindi | $500+ | Private pavilions, butler service, eco-focus on conservation. |
Dining in Kendwa Beach
Savor fresh seafood like grilled lobster or octopus curry at beachside spots.
Try Zanzibari staples: biryani, pilau, or ugali with coconut curries.
International options abound, from Italian pizzas to veggie salads.
Top picks: Essque Zalu’s fusion menu or casual bars for sunset cocktails.
Budget ~$10-20 per meal; resorts offer all-inclusive.
Pro tip: Visit local markets for tropical fruits—mangoes and passionfruit are divine.
Practical Tips for a Safe, Sustainable Kendwa Trip
- Essentials: Bring 50+ SPF sunscreen, mosquito repellent, light clothes, portable fan, sunglasses, and travel insurance. Tanzanian shillings or USD cash for small vendors; cards accepted at resorts.
- Safety: Kendwa is safe, but secure valuables and avoid solo night walks. Respect Muslim customs—cover shoulders/knees off-beach.
- Sustainability: Use reef-safe sunscreen, support local crafts, and minimize plastic. Our tours emphasize eco-practices.
- Health: Yellow fever vaccine if from endemic areas; drink bottled water.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi at most spots, but buy a local SIM for reliability.
Book Your Kendwa Adventure with Us
Kendwa Beach is more than just sand and sea—it’s an experience that blends nature, culture, and adventure.
Whether you want to relax under palms, dive into coral reefs, or dance at a moonlit beach party, Kendwa delivers memories that last a lifetime.
At Blue Green Zanzibar Tours, we design customized itineraries that fit your style—whether that’s combining Kendwa with Stone Town tours, spice farm visits, or a Tanzanian safari.
