Overview
The east coast is laid-back, with turquoise lagoons that empty at low tide. Paje is known for kitesurfing, Jambiani for village life, and Matemwe looks out to Mnemba Atoll.
The east coast, from Matemwe to Paje and Jambiani, has long white beaches facing the Indian Ocean reef. The tide goes far out, revealing sandbanks, rock pools and the seaweed farms tended by local women.
Paje is one of the world’s well-known kitesurfing spots thanks to steady trade winds, while the villages further south stay quiet and traditional.
Highlights
- Wide turquoise lagoons
- Kitesurfing in Paje
- Seaweed farms
- Close to Mnemba Atoll
Things to do here
Wildlife to look for
- Reef fish
- Starfish
- Seabirds
Good to know
Best time to visit
June – October, December – February
Getting there
About 1 hour by road from Zanzibar airport.
Where to stay
Boutique beach hotels and guesthouses.
How long to stay
3–5 nights
Key facts
- Beaches
- Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Paje, Bwejuu, Jambiani, Michamvi
- Known for
- Big tides, kitesurfing, seaweed farming, quiet villages
Seasons
Best months
June – October and December – February
Kitesurfing
Strongest winds from about June to September and December to February
Practical tips
- Check the tide times: swimming is best at high tide.
Questions about Paje, Jambiani & Matemwe
June – October, December – February.
More places nearby
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