East Coast Zanzibar
Jambiani Beach
Seven kilometres of village, seaweed farms and pastel water
About Jambiani Beach
Jambiani is a string of fishing hamlets along one of the longest beaches in Zanzibar. It is slower and more traditional than Paje just up the coast, with women farming seaweed in the lagoon, dhows drying on the sand, and small owner-run guesthouses instead of resorts.
Best time to visit
Tide information
Things to do
- Seaweed Center tour
- Kitesurfing
- Snorkelling trips to the reef
- Kizimkazi dolphin tour
- Cooking class in the village
- Sunset beach football with locals
Nearby hotels
- · Zanzibar Pearl
- · Casa Umoja
- · Blue Oyster Hotel
- · Coral Rock Hotel
- · Hakuna Majiwe
Nearby restaurants
- · Blue Oyster restaurant
- · Coral Rock terrace
- · Kimte Beach Inn
- · Babaomar's
Where it is
Getting around from Jambiani Beach
Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
Excursion stops on the way: Jozani Forest (red colobus) · Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
Stone Town
Excursion stops on the way: Stone Town old quarter · Mangapwani Slave Caves
Nungwi (North)
Excursion stops on the way: Mkokotoni fish market · Kidichi Persian Baths
Kiwengwa (Northeast)
Excursion stops on the way: Spice farms (Kizimbani) · Kiwengwa Caves
Kizimkazi (South)
Excursion stops on the way: Jozani Forest · Kizimkazi Dolphin Point
Distances and drive times are planning estimates for a private transfer; traffic in Stone Town can add 15–20 minutes.
Travel tips
- Buy seaweed soaps from the Seaweed Center — it directly supports the women's cooperative.
- Dress modestly walking through the village.
Tours & excursions from Jambiani Beach
Every tour includes hotel pickup from this beach. Tell us where you are staying and we handle the rest.
Frequently asked questions
Is Jambiani or Paje better?
Jambiani is quieter, more traditional and cheaper; Paje has more nightlife and kite infrastructure. They are 15 minutes apart.