beach overview

What Kendwa Beach is actually like.

A short drive south of Nungwi, Kendwa shares the same calm, barely-tidal water, but in a quieter, more resort-lined setting. It's best known for its monthly Full Moon Party and for west-facing sunsets you can watch from the water's edge without waiting for the tide to turn.

a closer look

The coast, the tide, and the town.

Kendwa sits just along the coast from Nungwi and benefits from the same geography — it's largely outside the island's dramatic tidal swing, so the beach keeps a healthy strip of swimmable water even when the tide is out. The sand is soft and the water a distinct turquoise, which has made it one of the most photographed beaches on the island.

The town itself is smaller and more spread out than Nungwi, with resorts and guesthouses set back from a quieter stretch of sand. Once a month, Kendwa hosts a well-known Full Moon Party on the beach that draws visitors from across the island; outside of that, it's a calmer, more relaxed alternative.

Good to know before you go

  • Like Nungwi, the water here stays swimmable through most tide states.
  • The Full Moon Party is a monthly event — check dates if you want to attend, or avoid, the crowds.
  • Quieter day-to-day than Nungwi, with a more resort-focused feel.
  • A Tanzania e-Visa is required for most nationalities — apply at immigration.go.tz at least 3 weeks before travel.

Planning excursions around Kendwa Beach?

We arrange tours and transfers across Zanzibar — get in touch and we'll help you plan around wherever you're staying.

frequently asked questions

Questions we get asked about Kendwa Beach.

It's a monthly beach party held on Kendwa's sand around the full moon, drawing visitors from across the island for music and dancing on the beach.

Generally yes, outside of Full Moon Party nights — Kendwa has fewer bars and a more spread-out, resort-focused feel.

Yes, Kendwa sits outside the main tidal flat, so swimmable water is available through most of the day.

Yes, it faces west along the coast and is one of the better spots on the island to watch the sun set directly over the water.

  • Calm water most of the day
  • Monthly Full Moon Party
  • West-facing sunset views
  • Quieter than neighbouring Nungwi
  • Mostly resort accommodation

Ask about combining a stay here with other Zanzibar excursions.

  • Nungwi Beach
  • Matemwe Beach