Let me tell you something: if you’re looking for a destination that feels like a dream you never want to wake up from, Zanzibar might just be it. This Tanzanian archipelago, floating in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of East Africa, is one of those rare places where everything slows down—and you start to remember what life should feel like.

I recently returned from a trip to Zanzibar, and let me just say—it wasn’t just another beach vacation. It was a full-on sensory experience. The spices, the history, the white powdery beaches, the impossibly clear turquoise water… it all comes together in a way that feels almost surreal. If you’re planning a trip there, or just dreaming for now, here’s everything you need to know—no fluff, just real talk.

Getting There: A Journey Worth Taking

First things first—Zanzibar isn’t difficult to reach, but it does feel remote in the best way. Most travelers fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Stone Town, with connecting flights from major cities like Nairobi, Doha, Istanbul, or Dar es Salaam. You can also take a ferry from the mainland, which is cheaper but more time-consuming and can get bumpy.

Pro tip: If you’re coming from Europe or the Middle East, consider checking Qatar Airways or Turkish Airlines for potential deals. Travel light, bring reef-safe sunscreen, and don’t stress too much about an itinerary. Zanzibar is best enjoyed at a slow, unhurried pace.

Stone Town: The Heart of Zanzibar

Before you head straight for the beach (and trust me, I get the temptation), do yourself a favor and spend at least a day in Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is unlike anywhere else. It’s chaotic and calm all at once—narrow alleyways, centuries-old mosques, carved wooden doors, and the smell of cloves in the air.

This is where the island’s soul lives. A mix of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences blend here. It’s a place of history—both beautiful and painful. Visit the Old Slave Market for a sobering but necessary look into Zanzibar’s past. Then walk it off with a sunset drink at Africa House Hotel, or grab a rooftop dinner at Emerson on Hurumzi. The view? Unreal.

The Beaches: Where Time Stops

Now let’s get to what you really came here for—the beaches. Zanzibar’s beaches are the stuff of Instagram fantasies, but they’re even better in real life. The sand is so white it’s almost blinding. The water is warm, shallow, and comes in about 14 shades of blue. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of days.

Here are a few standout beaches you should know about:

Nungwi – Lively and Laid-Back

Up on the northern tip of the island, Nungwi is popular for a reason. It’s lively without being overwhelming, the beach is wide and gorgeous, and unlike many other beaches in Zanzibar, the tide doesn’t go out too far. That means you can swim pretty much any time of day.

There’s a mix of guesthouses and fancy resorts, plus restaurants right on the sand. Expect beach volleyball, fresh grilled seafood, and dreamy sunsets. If you want a bit of action—boat trips, diving, maybe even a beach party—this is your place.

Kendwa – For Picture-Perfect Sunsets

Just a short hop from Nungwi, Kendwa is quieter but equally stunning. The sand is like powdered sugar, and the water? Think swimming pool meets paradise. If you’re honeymooning or just want something a bit more serene, Kendwa is golden.

It’s also home to the occasional Full Moon Party, but don’t worry—it doesn’t get too wild. You can still sip your coconut under a palm tree and forget your emails ever existed.

Paje – The Kitesurfer’s Playground

Head southeast to Paje and you’ll find a totally different vibe. This is the spot for kitesurfers, digital nomads, and cool barefoot cafés. When the tide is out, the beach stretches forever. When it’s in, the kites fill the sky like colorful birds.

Paje has a younger crowd and a bit more of that boho-backpacker energy. If you’re into yoga at sunrise, smoothie bowls, or co-working by the sea, you’ll feel at home here. But don’t worry—it still feels like Zanzibar, just with a slightly more modern twist.

Matemwe – Untouched and Tranquil

If you’re looking to truly unplug, Matemwe is a gem. It’s quieter, more local, and ideal for long beach walks without another soul in sight. The reef is close here, making it perfect for snorkeling trips—especially to Mnemba Atoll, which is just offshore.

You won’t find big hotels here, just cozy lodges and boutique stays where the biggest decision of the day is: hammock or swim?

What to Do (Besides Absolutely Nothing)

You could honestly spend your whole trip lying on the beach and watching dhows sail by—and no one would blame you. But if you’re up for more, there are plenty of options:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Zanzibar’s underwater world is vibrant. Mnemba Atoll is the most popular spot, with coral gardens and a good chance of spotting dolphins.
• Spice Tour: You’ll hear this everywhere, but it’s worth it. Zanzibar isn’t called the Spice Island for nothing—expect fresh vanilla, cloves, cinnamon, turmeric, and plenty of hands-on sniffing and tasting.
• Jozani Forest: Home to the rare red colobus monkeys, this protected forest is a refreshing break from the beach heat. Easy to do in a half-day.
• Sunset Dhow Cruise: It’s touristy, sure, but watching the sun dip below the horizon while sailing on a traditional dhow? Pure magic.

A Few Travel Tips

• Currency: Tanzanian shillings are useful, but most places accept USD. ATMs can be scarce outside Stone Town, so carry some cash.
• Connectivity: Buy a local SIM or eSIM if you need to stay connected—Zantel and Airtel work well. Most beach hotels offer decent Wi-Fi.
• Dress modestly in villages and towns, especially outside resorts. Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and respecting local customs goes a long way.
• Weather: June to October is dry and mild—perfect beach weather. Avoid the long rains in April and May.

Final Thoughts: Why Zanzibar Sticks With You

Zanzibar isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the slow rhythm of the tide, the scent of spice wafting through the air, the warmth of the people who greet you with “Karibu!” (welcome). It’s not about luxury or a packed itinerary. It’s about letting go.

And honestly? In a world that never seems to stop spinning, we could all use a little Zanzibar in our lives.

So, are you ready to swap the scroll for sand between your toes? Because Zanzibar’s waiting—and trust me, you’ll never forget it.