Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Butiama Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +27.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Butiama Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Butiama Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Butiama Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Butiama Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Butiama Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Butiama Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sand flies, mosquitoes, sea turtles (harmless). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Butiama Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Butiama Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Butiama Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Butiama Beach Lodge Restaurant. Cuisines available: Italian, Tanzanian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Butiama Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Cash, First aid kit, Snorkel mask.
Butiama Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Swimming is possible year-round. The best time for whale shark watching is from October to March. In the morning the water is calmer.
Butiama Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Leaving rubbish is prohibited. Follow marine reserve rules.
Butiama Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Butiama Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for diving, snorkelling and nature lovers. Not suitable for families with small children or those needing comfort.
Butiama Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Butiama Beach is one of the best places in the world for whale shark watching. The beach is located within the Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa Marine Reserve and features untouched nature.
Butiama Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand, Crystal-clear water, Excellent snorkelling and diving, Whale shark watching, Secluded location, Lush tropical vegetation. Cons: No lifeguards, Remote location, Limited infrastructure, Seaweed in some areas.
Butiama Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa Marine Reserve, Whale Sharks. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Butiama Beach: how do I get to the city of Mafia Island?
The beach is located near the city of Mafia Island. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Mafia Island.