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
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Kendwa Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal clear, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. The water is so clear that the bottom is visible even at depth — ideal for snorkelling. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Kendwa 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.
Kendwa Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Kendwa Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Kendwa Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July, August, September, October, November, December. It ends in March. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Kendwa 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.
Kendwa Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Kendwa Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Kendwa 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.
Kendwa Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Kendwa Rocks, Hotel restaurants. Cuisines available: Swahili, International. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Kendwa Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Sunglasses, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Cash, Water.
Kendwa Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Kendwa is known for swimming at any time of day thanks to minimal tides. Sunsets are especially beautiful in the evening.
Kendwa Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Respect local customs — dress modestly off the beach. Do not touch marine life. A polite "Hapana, asante" (no, thank you) is enough to decline vendors.
Kendwa Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Kendwa Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for those who want to swim at any time of day thanks to minimal tides. Suitable for couples, nightlife lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Not suitable for seekers of solitude — this is Zanzibar-s liveliest beach with numerous hotels and entertainment.
Kendwa Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Minimal tides — water remains on the beach throughout the day, unlike Zanzibar-s east coast where the ocean recedes for kilometres. This allows swimming around the clock.
Kendwa Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand and turquoise water, Minimal tides — can swim all day, Crystal-clear water, Excellent sunsets, Nightlife and parties, Water sports, Many restaurants and bars, Year-round swimming. Cons: Very crowded in high season, Many hotels and resorts on the beach, Beach construction continues, Local vendors can be persistent, Sea urchins in the water in some areas, Some beach sections reserved for hotels.
Kendwa Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Nungwi, Tumbatu Island, Mnemba Atoll. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Kendwa Beach: how do I get to the city of Zanzibar City?
The beach is located near the city of Zanzibar City. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Zanzibar City.