Matemwe & North
Why go?
The northern half of Zanzibar’s main island, Unguja, has some
of the best swimming, snorkelling and diving on the island.
The coast immediately north of Stone Town is not the most
appealing, as it is very tidal (impossible to swim at low tide) and
the beach is very narrow at high tide. But once past Mkokotoni
(45km), you leave the tropical forest and emerge onto the northern
peninsula which is fringed by brilliant white sands and - something
of a rarity on Zanzibar - steeply shelving beaches which allow you
to swim at any time of day. Nungwi and Kendwa are 2 prime spots for
lazy swimming and sailing and a buzzy beach-party scene. Off to the
west is the low wooded island of Tumbatu, while to the east is one
of the true jewels of the Indian Ocean, the sandy atoll of
Mnemba Island - a mecca for snorkellers and divers.
If you can't afford to stay on the island (and most mortals can't),
then base yourself in nearby Matemwe, a barefoot-chic hideaway with
easy access to all the prime diving spots, and 2 gorgeous beach
lodges.
Further down the east coast, especially around Kiwengwa, are some
larger resorts which are best avoided. But there are some
gorgeous little hotels and guesthouses if you know where to
look, notably around Pongwe.